Vegan cauliflower mac and cheese: a dish that seems impossible yet delivers on comfort and flavor. This creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying recipe will have you questioning if you’ll ever go back to the traditional version.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Cauliflower Mac ‘n Cheese
Let’s be honest, sometimes cravings for classic comfort food hit hard. But what if you could enjoy all the cheesy, creamy goodness of mac and cheese without the dairy? Enter cauliflower, the versatile veggie that transforms into a luscious sauce, mimicking the texture and taste of your favorite childhood dish.
This vegan cauliflower mac ‘n cheese is:
- Rich and creamy: The cauliflower creates a velvety smooth sauce that perfectly coats every noodle.
- Packed with flavor: Nutritional yeast and spices add that signature cheesy flavor we all crave.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Healthier alternative: Enjoy the indulgence of mac and cheese with a boost of vegetables and less saturated fat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 30 minutes
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape
Vegan Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Ingredients
How to Make Vegan Cauliflower Mac ‘n Cheese
This recipe is as easy as 1, 2, 3!
-
Cook the cauliflower and cashews. In a large pot, combine the cauliflower florets and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is fork-tender. Drain the cauliflower and cashews, reserving 1 cup of the cooking liquid.
-
Blend the cheese sauce. Add the cooked cauliflower, cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper to a high-speed blender. Gradually add the reserved cooking liquid, blending until smooth and creamy.
Blending Vegan Cheese Sauce
-
Cook the pasta. While the sauce is blending, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
-
Combine and serve! Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir to combine. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Vegan Cauliflower Mac ‘n Cheese
- Don’t overcook the cauliflower. The cauliflower should be fork-tender but not mushy.
- Soak the cashews. Soaking the cashews softens them up, resulting in a creamier sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasonings. Everyone’s taste buds are different! Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Get creative with toppings! Add some crunch with toasted breadcrumbs, chopped fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
“The key to a great vegan cheese sauce is using a high-powered blender to achieve that ultra-smooth and creamy texture.” – Chef Amelia Green
FAQs About Vegan Cauliflower Mac ‘n Cheese
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce and pasta before serving.
What kind of pasta can I use?
Elbow macaroni is a classic choice, but feel free to get creative! Shells, penne, or even rotini would work well.
Can I freeze vegan cauliflower mac and cheese?
While freezing isn’t recommended for the best texture, you can freeze the cheese sauce separately. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Is nutritional yeast necessary?
Nutritional yeast gives the sauce its cheesy flavor. If you don’t have any, you can try substituting it with a vegan parmesan cheese alternative.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce will add a welcome kick to your mac and cheese.
This vegan cauliflower mac and cheese isn’t just a delicious dinner; it’s a testament to how exciting and flavorful vegan cooking can be. And who knows, it might even become a new family favorite! For more easy and delicious vegan recipes for picky eaters or instant pot recipes vegan, check out our other posts.
