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A creamy vegan mac and cheese served in a rustic white bowl, topped with fresh chopped herbs. The dish features al dente pasta coated in a smooth, velvety cashew sauce with a golden hue and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top. The background shows a wooden table with scattered cashews and leafy greens, highlighting the plant-based ingredients.

Vegan Mac and Cheese (Creamy Cashew Sauce)

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Discover the creamy, dairy-free Vegan Mac and Cheese with a rich cashew sauce. This plant-based pasta recipe is perfect for vegans, dairy-intolerant individuals, or anyone seeking a wholesome, comforting meal. Made with nutritious cashews, flavorful spices, and hearty pasta, it offers a velvety texture and satisfying taste that everyone will love. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or anytime you crave a cheesy classic without animal products.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound of your favorite pasta (elbow macaroni, shells, or penne)
  • 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes)
  • 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk or other plant-based milk
  • 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric (for color)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: smoked paprika or chili flakes for added flavor

Instructions

  1. Begin by soaking the raw cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes until tender. Drain and rinse thoroughly.
  2. In a high-speed blender, combine soaked cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more plant-based milk if needed for desired consistency.
  3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. Pour the cashew sauce into a large skillet or pot. Warm over medium heat, stirring constantly until slightly thickened.
  5. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or spices.

Notes

  • For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs, toasted breadcrumbs, or sautéed vegetables.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of plant-based milk to restore creaminess.
  • Avoid freezing as the texture of the cashew sauce may change.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Boiling, Blending, Simmering
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Plant-Based
  • Diet: Vegan, Dairy-Free, Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 340 Kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg