As the weather cools down, our cravings for comfort food tend to heat up. And what’s more comforting than a warm, creamy bowl of macaroni and cheese? But what if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative that still packs a flavor punch? Look no further! We’ve rounded up 19 mouthwatering vegan mac and cheese recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
From classic cashew-based sauces to innovative uses of nutritional yeast, each recipe on this list offers a unique twist on the traditional mac and cheese. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking for some inspiration for a meatless meal, these comforting dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab a spoon and let’s dive in!
Creamy Cashew Vegan Mac and Cheese
This comforting dish is a game-changer for vegan mac lovers, with a rich and creamy sauce made from cashews and a variety of spices. It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Drain and rinse cashews, then blend with olive oil, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. In a saucepan, combine the blended mixture with the cooked macaroni and stir until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with nutritional yeast if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Silken Tofu Vegan Mac and Cheese
This comforting dish is a game-changer for vegan mac and cheese lovers. By using silken tofu, we can achieve a creamy, cheesy sauce without the need for dairy.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of silken tofu (12 oz)
– 1/2 cup vegan margarine or butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond milk)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz macaroni
– Chopped fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine silken tofu, vegan margarine or butter, flour, non-dairy milk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. In a large saucepan, combine the blended mixture with cooked macaroni. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional vegan margarine or butter if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Butternut Squash Vegan Mac and Cheese
Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with this vibrant and flavorful vegan mac and cheese dish, infused with the sweetness of butternut squash. This plant-based twist on a classic favorite is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup cashew cream*
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup vegan cheddar shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast the butternut squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender. Let cool and puree in a blender or food processor.
3. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, combine vegetable broth, cashew cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir over medium heat until smooth.
5. Add the roasted butternut squash puree and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and vegan cheddar shreds in a baking dish. Pour the squash-based cheese sauce over top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Yeast Vegan Mac and Cheese
This creamy, cheesy macaroni dish gets its signature flavor from nutritional yeast, a popular vegan ingredient that naturally mimics the taste of cheese. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a comforting, plant-based mac and cheese in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond)
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. In a separate pot, combine vegetable broth, non-dairy milk, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer.
4. Combine cooked macaroni, sauce mixture, salt, and pepper. Stir until well coated.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk Vegan Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this creamy, dairy-free macaroni and cheese recipe that uses coconut milk as a substitute for traditional heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegan margarine or butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups coconut milk (full-fat)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add vegan margarine or butter and stir until melted.
5. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, whisking constantly; cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add coconut milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
8. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
9. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce; transfer to a baking dish.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
11. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Roasted Garlic Vegan Mac and Cheese
Roasted Garlic Vegan Mac and Cheese: A creamy, comforting dish that combines the richness of roasted garlic with the comfort of macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4-6 cloves garlic, peeled
– 1 cup vegan cheddar shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Roast garlic by placing cloves on a baking sheet, drizzling with olive oil, and seasoning with salt. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large saucepan, combine roasted garlic, vegan cheddar shreds, vegetable broth, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir over medium heat until cheese is melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a serving dish. Top with additional vegan cheddar shreds if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Vegan Mac and Cheese
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this spicy twist, featuring smoky chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This plant-based take on the comfort classic is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 cups vegan cheddar cheese shreds
– 1 cup non-dairy milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in chipotle peppers and their adobo sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, vegan cheese shreds, non-dairy milk, paprika, salt, and pepper in the saucepan. Stir until smooth.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional vegan cheese shreds if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spinach Artichoke Vegan Mac and Cheese
A creamy, comforting twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, infused with the flavors of spinach and artichokes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups vegan cheddar cheese shreds
– 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add spinach and artichoke hearts to the skillet; cook for an additional minute.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, vegan cheddar cheese shreds, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper.
6. Stir in the spinach-artichoke mixture until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Cauliflower Vegan Mac and Cheese
Transform your comfort food game with this creamy, spicy, and satisfying vegan mac and cheese featuring crispy buffalo cauliflower. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/4 cup vegan ranch dressing
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups vegan cheddar cheese shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 1/4 cup unsalted vegan butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and break it into florets.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, hot sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the cauliflower and toss until well coated.
4. Spread the buffalo cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large pot, melt vegan butter over medium heat. Add vegan cheese shreds and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and buffalo cauliflower with the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper, if needed.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sweet Potato Vegan Mac and Cheese
This creamy, comforting dish is a game-changer for vegan mac lovers! Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and a boost of vitamins to this indulgent macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as soy or almond milk)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in mashed sweet potato, vegan cheddar cheese shreds, and plant-based milk. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the sweet potato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional vegan cheddar cheese shreds if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pesto Vegan Mac and Cheese
Pesto Vegan Mac and Cheese: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pesto with the comfort of macaroni and cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying vegan meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup vegan pesto
– 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup cashew cream (see note)
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine pesto, cheese shreds, nutritional yeast, cashew cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and the pesto mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Note: To make cashew cream, soak 1/2 cup of cashews in water for at least 4 hours. Drain and blend with 1/4 cup fresh water until smooth.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Breadcrumb Topped Vegan Mac and Cheese
Elevate your vegan mac and cheese game with this creamy, crunchy delight! This recipe combines the comfort of a classic macaroni dish with the satisfying crunch of homemade breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegan cheddar cheese shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond milk)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. Combine cooked macaroni, vegan cheese shreds, non-dairy milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the mac and cheese is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Vegan Mac and Cheese
Spicy Jalapeño Vegan Mac and Cheese: A creamy, bold twist on a classic comfort food!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 1/2 cup plain unsweetened soy milk
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped jalapeños, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. Add vegan cheddar cheese shreds, soy milk, nutritional yeast, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional vegan cheddar cheese shreds (if desired).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped jalapeños.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Mushroom Bacon Vegan Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of macaroni and cheese with the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms and crispy bacon, all without using any animal products. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices vegan bacon (such as tempeh or seitan), crumbled
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add crumbled bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 7-8 minutes.
4. In a large saucepan, combine vegetable broth, plant-based milk, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and nutritional yeast. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Stir in vegan cheddar cheese shreds until melted and smooth. Add cooked macaroni, mushroom mixture, and crispy bacon; stir until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Vegan Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of macaroni and cheese with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin and the savory flavor of sage, all while being completely plant-based.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups vegan cheddar shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted cashew butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Nutritional yeast (optional, for extra cheesy flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine pumpkin puree, cashew butter, olive oil, garlic, and sage. Blend until smooth.
4. In a large saucepan, combine vegan cheddar shreds and blended pumpkin mixture. Stir until melted and combined.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional vegan cheddar shreds if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lentil Bolognese Vegan Mac and Cheese
Lentil Bolognese Vegan Mac and Cheese Recipe
This comforting vegan macaroni dish combines the rich flavors of lentil bolognese with creamy vegan mac and cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is quick to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound macaroni
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegan bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds (such as Daiya)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted vegan butter, melted
Instructions:
- Bake the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
- Add the vegetable broth, cooked lentils, vegan bolognese sauce, nutritional yeast, cheese shreds, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to the saucepan. Stir well.
- Pour the lentil bolognese mixture over the cooked macaroni and stir until combined.
- Add the melted vegan butter and stir until a creamy consistency is achieved.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Lentil Bolognese Vegan Mac and Cheese!
Black Bean Vegan Mac and Cheese
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this creative twist, featuring black beans and a blend of dairy-free cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup unsalted cashew butter
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in black beans, smoked paprika, and cooked macaroni.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine vegan cheese shreds, nutritional yeast, cashew butter, and vegetable broth. Heat over low, stirring constantly, until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine macaroni mixture with cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Avocado Lime Vegan Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni game with this creamy and refreshing twist on a classic comfort food. This vegan take combines the richness of avocado with the brightness of lime, creating a truly unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup unsalted cashew cream (soaked overnight)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup vegan cheddar shreds
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine mashed avocado, cashew cream, lime juice, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and nutritional yeast. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the blended mixture to cooked macaroni and stir until well combined.
4. Top with vegan cheddar shreds and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric-Spiced Vegan Mac and Cheese
This creamy, comforting vegan mac and cheese gets a boost from the warm, earthy flavor of turmeric. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons vegan butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond)
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: paprika, garlic powder, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt vegan butter over low heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add non-dairy milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in nutritional yeast, turmeric powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional vegan butter or breadcrumbs (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the comforting world of vegan mac and cheese with these 19 creamy recipes. From classic cashew-based versions to innovative uses of butternut squash and buffalo cauliflower, there’s something for every taste bud. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy depth, while coconut milk and silken tofu provide rich and velvety textures. Spice up your meal with smoky chipotle or spicy jalapeño, or add some Mediterranean flair with pesto and crispy breadcrumbs. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these vegan mac and cheese recipes are sure to satisfy.
