Vegan Mac Cheese with Cashews

Name: Vegan Mac Cheese with Cashews
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 2-4 hours; 1/4 cup nutritional yeast; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup vegetable broth; 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice); Water for boiling; Salt for the pasta water

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

Enjoy a creamy and delicious plant-based twist on the classic mac and cheese with our Vegan Mac Cheese with Cashews recipe!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T20:10:27.728Z

This Vegan Mac Cheese with Cashews is not only incredibly creamy but also packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly day!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that satisfies your cheese cravings
Nutty flavor from cashews adds a unique twist
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Creamy Delight for Everyone

Vegan Mac Cheese with Cashews is a delightful dish that transcends dietary preferences. Whether you follow a vegan lifestyle or are simply looking to reduce your dairy intake, this recipe offers a rich and creamy texture that rivals traditional mac and cheese. The secret lies in the cashews, which, when blended, create a smooth and luscious sauce that envelops each piece of pasta beautifully.

This dish is not only satisfying but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite add-ins, such as sautéed vegetables or spicy seasonings, to make it your own. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra nutrients while still enjoying the comfort of a classic meal.

Nutritious Ingredients for a Healthy Meal

One of the standout ingredients in this recipe is nutritional yeast, known for its cheesy flavor and health benefits. Packed with B vitamins and protein, it enhances the nutritional profile of your dish while contributing to the unmistakable cheesy taste. Additionally, cashews provide healthy fats, making this vegan mac cheese not only delicious but also nourishing.

Using quality vegetable broth instead of cream further elevates this dish. It adds depth and flavor without the heaviness of traditional cheese sauces. This light yet satisfying approach ensures you can enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt, making it perfect for any occasion.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a gathering, or meal prepping for the week, Vegan Mac Cheese with Cashews fits the bill perfectly. Its simplicity and speed in preparation make it an ideal choice for busy schedules. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love, regardless of dietary preferences.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge, making it an excellent option for lunch the next day. Just a quick reheat, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy again. This recipe truly embodies the essence of convenience without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Ingredients

For the Cashew Cheese Sauce

1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 2-4 hours
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup vegetable broth

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
Water for boiling
Salt for the pasta water

Combine all ingredients in a blender for a smooth sauce.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cashew Cheese Sauce

In a blender, combine soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and vegetable broth. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

In the pot, combine the drained pasta with the cashew cheese sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast if desired.

Enjoy your creamy Vegan Mac Cheese!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta! While elbow macaroni is traditional, whole grain, gluten-free, or even spiral pasta can add a unique touch to your dish. Each type brings its own texture and flavor, allowing you to customize your Vegan Mac Cheese to suit your tastes.

For those who enjoy a little kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce. This simple addition can elevate the flavor profile and give your mac cheese a delightful twist that spicy food lovers will appreciate.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishing your Vegan Mac Cheese with fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the dish visually and add a fresh flavor layer. A sprinkle of extra nutritional yeast on top not only enhances the cheesy appearance but also boosts the nutritional content, making every bite a wholesome experience.

Pair this dish with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. The freshness of the greens will complement the richness of the mac cheese, creating a satisfying dining experience that leaves you feeling good.

Storage Tips

To store your Vegan Mac Cheese, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

If you want to freeze your leftovers, ensure they are in a freezer-safe container. This dish can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed for a quick and comforting meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use roasted cashews instead of raw?

Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different. Raw cashews give a creamier texture.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze the cashew cheese sauce separately from the pasta for up to 2 months.