Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese (2024)

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This Vegan Mac and Cheese is so easy to make, loaded with broccoli and made with a plant-powered homemade creamy and “cheesy” sauce. It can easily be made gluten-free, so flavorful, and ready in just about 3o minutes. A perfect Dairy-Free side dish recipe that the whole family can enjoy.

Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese (1)

An ultimate vegan mac and cheese recipe that’s rich, creamy, tasty and made without any dairy or nuts. They can also be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. The perfect side dish or weeknight meal that can be made on a regular basis or added to your holiday dinner table. This easy homemade vegan mac and cheese is loaded with rich creamy buttery goodness, and made with easily available ingredients like potatoes and carrots! The carrots give it the right amount of sweetness and that pretty orange color.

HOW TO MAKE EASY VEGAN MAC AND CHEESE

Wash and scrub the potatoes and carrots thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat the excess moisture with a paper towel.

Using a potato peeler, peel the potatoes and carrots skin off and cut into large bite-sized chunks. Now add chopped potatoes and carrots to a large pot then pour over enough water to cover by 1″ inch. Season with a generous pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.

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Boil for 15 minutes or until potatoes and carrots are easily pierced with a paring knife. Meanwhile, add a steamer basket under another pot filled with about 1 cup water (or use the same pot where the veggies are boiling if the water doesn’t touch the steamer). Steam the broccoli for 3-4 minutes, or just until fork-tender.

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Once the veggies are done, remove from the heat and place in a colander to drain, reserving about 1 cup of water from the veggies. Allow the veggies to cool slightly. Cook pasta according to the package instructions.

In a small mixing bowl, combine garlic, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, paprika, turmeric, and salt whisk until well combined and set aside.

Next, place the boiled potatoes, carrots, nutritional yeast and 1/2 cup of the reserved liquid to a blender.

Pour in the prepared garlic and vinegar mixture and blend until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. If needed, add more liquid to reach your desired consistency.

Add cooked pasta to a large serving bowl together with steamed broccoli, then pour the sauce on top.
Using a wooden spoon mix well until pasta is evenly coated into super the creamy delicious sauce! Serve warm and enjoy!

Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese (4)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Tips for storing mac and cheese

Homemade mac and cheese can be stored in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. Place in an airtight container. You can store the leftover sauce for this homemade creamy mac and cheese recipe in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat just before serving.

Can you freeze mac and cheese

Place your leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container and store in the freezer for up 3 months. Mac and cheese will still taste great even after they are frozen. If you have a large quantity to freeze, separate them into either smaller containers or resealable ziplock bags. Remove and use it as needed.

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How to reheat mac and cheese

Remove from freezer, allow to defrost overnight in the fridge and then reheat them in the microwave. If you forget to remove the mac and cheese from the freezer the night before, you can still use the microwave to defrost your mac and cheese. Be sure to use a low power setting.

You may also reheat your mac and cheese in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350 F. To reheat on stove stop, allow the mac and cheese to defrost first, place in a pan, add a bit of milk (for nonvegans), or use almond milk or water for a vegan version. Under low heat allow to heat up to the right temperature.

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What goes with mac and cheese

There are so many food options that can be added to your mac and cheese. Vegan-friendly options, stick with more veggies and some hot sauces like sriracha. For non-vegans, you may add a variety of meats to your mac and cheese like grilled chicken, browned beef, bacon, tuna, sausages, and so on.

What to serve with mac and cheese

Mac and cheese work as a great side dish with many other meals. It works as a meal on its own or can be added as a side to proteins like grilled steaks, roasted chicken or turkey, casseroles, baked salmon, and the list goes on. Serve it with some freshly baked bread or a side of salad.

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Can you use almond milk in mac and cheese

It is ok to use almond milk in mac and cheese if you are looking to keep your mac and cheese plant-based or dairy-free.

How long do mac and cheese last

Dairy-free mac and cheese should last up to 7 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer. Mac and cheese containing dairy should be ok to store in the fridge for 3-5 days.

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We would love to know if you made this easy, creamy, simple, vegan mac and cheese recipe. We assure you, it will be the best mac and cheese recipe ever! Leave us some feedback in the comments below and don’t forget to pin it and share it with friends and family!

Other vegan-friendly recipes to try out:

  • Vegan Spinach Avocado Pasta
  • Mango Black Bean Salad Recipe
  • Easy Vegan Chocolate Fudge
  • Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower
  • Garlic Whole Roasted Cauliflower
  • Thai Sweet Potato Soup

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Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese (10)

4.80 from 25 votes

Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese

By: Rena

Servings: 6

Prep: 10 minutes mins

Cook: 20 minutes mins

0 minutes mins

Total: 30 minutes mins

Rate

Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese (11)

Vegan Mac and Cheese made in an easy homemade plant-powered sauce. So tasty, comforting, and ready in just about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 box Whole Wheat or Gluten-free Pasta , use any pasta of choice
  • 2 Large Yukon Gold Potatoes
  • 3 Medium Carrots
  • 2 Cups Broccoli Florets
  • 2 Cloves Minced Garlic
  • ¼ Cup Nutritional Yeast
  • 1 Tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp Freshly-Squeezed Lemon Juice
  • 1 Tsp Dijon Mustard
  • ½ Tsp Paprika
  • Tsp Turmeric Powder
  • ½ Tsp Kosher Salt
  • ¼ Tsp Ground Pepper

Instructions

  • Wash and scrub the potatoes and carrots thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat the excess moisture with a paper towel.

  • Using a potato peeler, peel the potatoes and carrots skin off and cut into large bite-sized chunks.

  • Now add chopped potatoes and carrots to a large pot then pour over enough water to cover by 1" inch. Season with a generous pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil, over medium-high heat.

  • Boil for 15 minutes or until potatoes and carrots are easily pierced with a paring knife.

  • Meanwhile, add a steamer basket under another pot filled with about 1 cup water (or use the same pot where the veggies are boiling if the water doesn't touch the steamer) Steam the broccoli for 3-4 minutes, or just until fork-tender.

  • Once the veggies are done, remove from the heat and place in a colander to drain, reserving about 1 cup of water from the veggies. Allow the veggies to cool slightly. Cook pasta according to the package instructions.

  • In a small mixing bowl, combine garlic, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, paprika, turmeric, and salt whisk until well combined and set aside.

  • Next, place the boiled potatoes, carrots, nutritional yeast and 1/2 cup of the reserved liquid to a blender.

  • Pour in the prepared garlic and vinegar mixture and blend until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. If needed, add more liquid to reach your desired consistency.

  • Add cooked pasta to a large serving bowl together with steamed broccoli, then pour the sauce on top.

  • Using a wooden spoon mix well until pasta is evenly coated into super the creamy delicious sauce! Serve warm and enjoy!

Video

Notes

For storage:

  • You can store the leftover sauce in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat just before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 327kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 15gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 246mgPotassium: 625mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 5366IUVitamin C: 37mgCalcium: 71mgIron: 5mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Tried this recipe?Mention @healthyfitnessmeals or tag #healthyfitnessmeals!

Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese (12)

Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese (2024)

FAQs

What is vegan mac and cheese made of? ›

The super creamy sauce still contains a small amount of cashews, but its base is blended yellow potato and sweet potato. The yellow potato gives it a delightful gooey texture, and the sweet potato makes it vibrant orange. Apple cider vinegar, garlic, onion powder, and nutritional yeast perfect its cheesy taste.

What happens to mac and cheese without milk? ›

To make mac and cheese without milk, the best choice is to find something that has a similar texture and a milk flavor. Things like heavy cream, almond milk, oat milk, yogurt, cream cheese, and even pasta water all work very well in boxed mac and cheese.

Does vegan mac and cheese taste the same? ›

Vegan mac and cheese is essentially the same thing as regular mac and cheese, so… pasta with a cheese sauce, duh. BUT it isn't made with cheese. That being said, it still tastes like macaroni and cheese AKA the ultimate comfort food.

What's the best milk to use in mac and cheese? ›

Dairy – Evaporated milk and half-and-half make a more decadent, creamier sauce without spending all that time simmering it to make it thick enough. I also have a cheap shortcut to making your own evaporated milk. And, yes, you can use half cream and half whole milk if you don't have half-and-half.

What is a vegan substitute for milk in mac and cheese? ›

Almond milk is a popular plant-based milk that's a great substitute for regular cow's milk. It has a nutty flavor, which can add a subtle richness to your mac and cheese. As it's used as a common milk substitute, you can simply put the same amount of almond milk as you'd put regular milk.

What can replace milk in mac and cheese? ›

16 Best Substitutes for Milk in Mac and Cheese
  • Dairy-free milk.
  • Sour cream.
  • Heavy cream (aka whipping cream).
  • Yogurt.
  • Half and half.
  • Coconut cream.
  • Cream cheese.
  • Butter.
Jan 10, 2022

Can I use mayonnaise instead of milk in mac and cheese? ›

While some folks use mayonnaise as a substitute for the milk and butter boxed mac and cheese calls for, the condiment also works as a supplement in addition to the traditional recipe. When mixed into macaroni and cheese, mayonnaise creates a rich and velvety texture that complements its rich flavor.

Can I use water instead of milk for mac and cheese? ›

Water actually works perfectly well as a milk substitute in mac and cheese. It adds all the liquid you need, though it doesn't have the creaminess or flavor that other substitutes add. However, if you add a little pasta water, instead of plain tap water, to your cheese sauce, you might get better results.

What is the best non-dairy cheese? ›

  • Treeline Cream Cheese. ...
  • Parmela Shreds. ...
  • Miyoko's Mozzarella. ...
  • Violife cheeeeeese. ...
  • Follow Your Heart Slices. ...
  • Kite Hill Ricotta. ...
  • SriMu. Founder Julie Piatt makes the Rolls Royce standard of dairy-free cheeses. ...
  • 4-Ingredient Parmesan. Yes, you can purchase store-bought dairy-free parmesan, but making it is faster and cheaper.
Feb 21, 2024

What is most vegan cheese made of? ›

The ingredients used in vegan cheese vary depending on the type of cheese being made and the desired texture and flavor. The most commonly used ingredients include plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, agar agar, tapioca starch, coconut oil, cashews, and chickpea flour.

What is in Daiya mac and cheese? ›

Brown rice pasta (brown rice, rice bran), Filtered water, Tapioca flour, Expeller pressed safflower oil, Coconut oil, Salt, Natural flavours, Pea protein, Tricalcium phosphate, Cane sugar, Lactic acid, Yeast extract, Xanthan gum, Annatto (colour), Onion.

Why put mustard in mac and cheese? ›

Mustard Powder: The secret ingredient you should always add to your Mac and cheese. The acidity in the mustard helps cut through the fat. You can find it in the spice section of any major grocery store. Otherwise, swap it for 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of Dijon or yellow mustard to taste or omit it.

Is heavy cream or evaporated milk better for mac and cheese? ›

It is better to use heavy cream for Mac and Cheese instead of milk, or better yet, use evaporated milk which has the thickness of heavy cream without all of the fat! Furthermore, it is more stable than heavy cream so your Macaroni and Cheese is less likely to curdle or separate.

How does Gordon Ramsay make the best mac and cheese? ›

Preparation
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine the pasta and milk. ...
  2. Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and add the butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. ...
  3. Divide between serving bowls and top with the bread crumbs.
  4. Enjoy!
  5. All your favorite recipes, stored in one place.
May 4, 2023

What ingredient is in vegan cheese? ›

What Ingredients Are in Vegan Cheese? Vegan cheeses are 100% animal-free and made using vegetable proteins. Usually, they're made from soy; nuts, such as cashews and macadamias; and vegetable oils, such as coconut oil. You can also find cheeses that derive from agar, tapioca, peas and arrowroot.

What is a vegan cheese made of? ›

Vegan cheese is usually made from soy, nuts, vegetable oils, and various other natural ingredients like peas or arrowroot. Vegan cheese is seen as a healthier alternative to cheese by some, and may reduce your risk of heart disease due to its lower content of fat.

What is vegan cheese out of? ›

The ingredients used in vegan cheese vary depending on the type of cheese being made and the desired texture and flavor. The most commonly used ingredients include plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, agar agar, tapioca starch, coconut oil, cashews, and chickpea flour.

What is vegan butter made of? ›

Vegan butter is a non-dairy butter substitute made from plant-based ingredients. It is typically made from a blend of vegetable oils such as coconut, palm, or soybean and other natural ingredients such as nuts, seeds, and even algae. This makes it a great alternative for those who: Follow a vegan diet.

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