BuzzFeed Mac and Cheese Vegan Recipe Made Easy

Mac and cheese is a comfort food classic that many of us grew up loving. But what if you want to enjoy that creamy, cheesy goodness without any dairy or animal products?

Enter the BuzzFeed Mac and Cheese Vegan Recipe—a delicious plant-based twist on the traditional favorite. This recipe uses wholesome, accessible ingredients to create a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly coats tender pasta, delivering that familiar cheesy flavor and satisfying texture.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking to eat a little healthier, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

It’s easy to make and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce friends and family to vegan cooking without compromising on taste.

So grab your favorite pasta, and let’s dive into this creamy, dreamy vegan mac and cheese that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan mac and cheese recipe stands out because it combines simplicity with extraordinary flavor. Using natural, plant-based ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and plant milk, it mimics the creamy texture and cheesy tang of traditional mac and cheese without any dairy.

It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want comfort food in a flash. The sauce is velvety and smooth, coating every noodle perfectly, and it’s packed with nutrients from wholesome ingredients.

Plus, it’s allergen-friendly, gluten-free if you use gluten-free pasta, and can be customized to your taste preferences.

If you’re looking for a healthier, cruelty-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this BuzzFeed vegan mac and cheese recipe will be your new go-to!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape, gluten-free if preferred)
• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 15 minutes)
• 1 1/4 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for that cheesy flavor)
• 2 tablespoons vegan butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
• 1 tablespoon tapioca starch (optional, for extra stretchiness)
• Water (for soaking and blending)

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• High-speed blender (for making the cheese sauce)
• Colander (to drain pasta)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Saucepan (optional, for warming sauce)
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

1. Prepare the cashews: Start by soaking the raw cashews in hot water for at least 15 minutes to soften them. This ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the cheese sauce: Drain the soaked cashews and add them to your blender along with the unsweetened almond milk, nutritional yeast, vegan butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, turmeric, and tapioca starch (if using).
4. Blend until smooth: Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides once or twice.
5. Heat the sauce: Pour the sauce into a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. The sauce will thicken and become stretchy if you included tapioca starch. This usually takes 3-5 minutes.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: Once the sauce is thickened, toss it with the cooked pasta until every piece is well coated.
7. Serve warm: Transfer to bowls or a baking dish if you want to bake it with breadcrumbs. Enjoy immediately for the creamiest experience.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce before blending.

If you don’t have cashews, you can substitute with blanched almonds or even cooked potatoes and carrots for a different creamy base.

For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with vegan breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until golden and crispy.

To add veggies, mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted cauliflower for a nutrient boost.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan mac and cheese is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a crisp garden salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.

Roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus complement the creamy texture nicely.

For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with vegan sausage or a lentil loaf. It’s also fantastic as a side dish for your next barbecue or potluck.

If you’re interested in more plant-based comfort foods, check out my Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for more inspiration.

Conclusion

This BuzzFeed vegan mac and cheese recipe is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a comforting, cheesy dish without the dairy. It’s creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, proving that vegan cooking can be just as satisfying as the traditional versions we grew up loving.

Using wholesome, plant-based ingredients, you can enjoy a nutritious meal that delights your taste buds and aligns with your lifestyle.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a great addition to your repertoire. Give it a try for your next meal and see how delicious and comforting plant-based mac and cheese can be.

For more delicious recipes to complement this dish, check out the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe if you enjoy meat options or explore the Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for great starters to any meal.

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