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🧀 Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese – Dairy-Free Comfort Food

Craving a bowl of creamy vegan mac and cheese that’s just as satisfying as the classic? This dairy-free mac and cheese recipe is made with a silky cashew-based sauce, nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and a touch of spice for depth. It’s the ultimate plant-based comfort food—perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Mac and Cheese

  • 100% Dairy-Free & Vegan – Cashews and nutritional yeast create a creamy, cheesy flavor.

  • Comforting & Satisfying – A rich sauce coats tender pasta perfectly.

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.

  • Healthy Twist – Packed with protein, healthy fats, and spices for flavor without dairy.

🍝 Ingredients You’ll Need

Pasta:

Vegan Cheese Sauce:

  • 1 ½ cups raw cashews (soaked in hot water)

  • 3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • ¾ cup water

  • ¼ cup nutritional yeast

  • 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt

  • 1 ½ teaspoons arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)

  • ½ teaspoon chili powder

  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ¼ teaspoon turmeric

  • ½ teaspoon spicy brown mustard

  • Pinch of cayenne pepper

🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil macaroni noodles according to package instructions for al dente. Salt the water and reserve 2 cups of pasta water before draining.

2. Make the Sauce 

Soak cashews in hot water for 10 minutes. Drain and transfer to a blender. Add lemon juice, nutritional yeast, arrow root powder, spices, mustard, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Combine Pasta & Sauce

Pour the sauce over the cooked noodles and stir on low heat. Slowly add reserved pasta water until you reach a creamy consistency. Continue to stir well to coat.

4. Serve & Enjoy

Serve warm and garnish with fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, or extra nutritional yeast.

🌱 Serving Suggestions for Vegan Mac and Cheese

  • Top with sautéed broccoli or peas for extra veggies.

  • Sprinkle with vegan breadcrumbs and bake for a golden crust.

  • Pair with a fresh side salad for balance.

  • Add seasoned tempeh for a protein boost.

💡 Pro Tips

  • The sauce thickens as it sits—save pasta water to thin it out later.

  • For a deeper cheesy flavor, add extra nutritional yeast.

  • Add a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.

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