Vegan Mac Cheese with Cashews

Name: Vegan Mac Cheese with Cashews
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in water for 2-4 hours; 1/4 cup nutritional yeast; 1/2 cup water; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp turmeric powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice); 1 cup steamed broccoli (optional); 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

Enjoy a creamy, delicious twist on a classic comfort food with this Vegan Mac Cheese made from wholesome cashews.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-25T20:50:27.373Z

This Vegan Mac Cheese with Cashews is not only a healthier alternative to traditional macaroni and cheese, but it also delivers an incredible flavor and creaminess that will leave you craving more.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that satisfies your cheesy cravings
Nutritious ingredients packed with healthy fats and protein
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for weeknight dinners
Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite add-ins

      

A Healthy Alternative

This Vegan Mac Cheese with Cashews offers a wholesome alternative to traditional cheesy pasta dishes. By using cashews as the base for the cheese sauce, you not only get a rich and creamy texture, but also a boost of healthy fats and protein. Cashews are a great source of essential nutrients, including magnesium and copper, making this dish not just delicious but also nourishing.

Many people struggle to find satisfying plant-based alternatives to their favorite comfort foods. This recipe addresses that challenge by combining the satisfying creaminess of cashews with the umami flavor of nutritional yeast. The result is a delightful cheese-like sauce that will leave you craving more, all while being completely vegan and free from dairy.

Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this Vegan Mac Cheese is its quick and easy preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. Soaking the cashews beforehand allows for a smoother blend, ensuring the sauce is velvety and rich. While the pasta is cooking, you can whip up the cashew cheese sauce in a blender, making this dish perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Moreover, the simplicity of the ingredients means that you likely already have most of them in your pantry. This makes it an excellent go-to recipe when you need to whip something up without an elaborate shopping trip. Just grab your cashews and pasta, and you're on your way to creating a satisfying meal.

Customization Options

One of the greatest features of this Vegan Mac Cheese is its versatility. Feel free to customize the dish to suit your taste preferences or to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand. Adding steamed broccoli not only enhances the nutrition but also adds a lovely crunch and color to your plate. Similarly, halved cherry tomatoes provide a burst of freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

You can also experiment with different spices or herbs to elevate the flavor profile. Consider adding smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness or fresh basil for a burst of freshness. The adaptability of this dish means you can create a unique version each time you make it, ensuring it never gets boring.

Ingredients

For the Cashew Cheese Sauce

1 cup raw cashews, soaked in water for 2-4 hours
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1/2 cup water
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
1 cup steamed broccoli (optional)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize this dish!

Instructions

Prepare the Cashew Cheese Sauce

Drain and rinse the soaked cashews. In a blender, combine the cashews, nutritional yeast, water, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour the cashew cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and mix until the pasta is evenly coated. If desired, stir in steamed broccoli and cherry tomatoes.

Serve

Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy Vegan Mac Cheese!

Top with fresh herbs or additional nutritional yeast for an extra flavor boost!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is simple! Allow the Vegan Mac Cheese to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

If you plan to make a larger batch, consider freezing portions for later. However, be aware that the texture may slightly change upon thawing, so it's best enjoyed fresh when possible.

Nutritional Benefits

This Vegan Mac Cheese is not just a treat for your taste buds; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. The cashews provide healthy fats that are essential for brain health and energy. Nutritional yeast, often referred to as 'nooch' in the vegan community, is a fantastic source of B vitamins, including B12, which is crucial for those following a plant-based diet.

Moreover, this dish can easily be made gluten-free by substituting the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta alternatives. This makes it accessible for individuals with dietary restrictions while still delivering on flavor and satisfaction.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Vegan Mac Cheese experience, consider serving it with a side of mixed greens or a refreshing salad. This not only adds a pop of color to your meal but also incorporates more nutrients and fiber. A simple vinaigrette can pair beautifully with the creaminess of the mac cheese, creating a well-rounded plate.

Additionally, feel free to top your dish with some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for added texture. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the presentation and flavor, making it an appealing option for both family dinners and gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use roasted cashews instead of raw?

Yes, but the flavor may be slightly different. Raw cashews provide a creamier texture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta instead of regular elbow macaroni.

→ Can I freeze the vegan mac cheese?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.