3 Ingredient Vegan Mac and Cheese Recipe Made Easy

If you’ve ever craved the creamy, comforting goodness of mac and cheese but wanted a healthier, plant-based version, this 3 ingredient vegan mac and cheese recipe is your new best friend. It’s incredibly simple, quick, and requires just a handful of pantry staples, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a cozy meal without the fuss.

This recipe proves that delicious vegan food doesn’t have to be complicated or laden with artificial ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just dabbling in plant-based cooking, this easy mac and cheese will satisfy your cheesy cravings without any dairy in sight.

Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also packs a punch in flavor and nutrition, making it a win-win for taste buds and health. Plus, with just three ingredients, cleanup is a breeze!

If you love simple, wholesome meals, you’ll want to bookmark this recipe and come back to it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.

The simplicity means you can whip it up in under 20 minutes, perfect for those busy days when you want comfort food without the wait.

Second, the ingredients are all natural and plant-based, making this a healthy alternative to traditional mac and cheese. It’s dairy-free, cholesterol-free, and packed with nutrients from wholesome sources.

Most importantly, the flavor is rich, creamy, and satisfyingly cheesy — without any vegan cheese substitutes or processed products. The magic happens with just a few simple ingredients that come together to create a velvety sauce that coats every noodle perfectly.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice, gluten-free if preferred)
• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes)
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for that cheesy flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• High-speed blender or food processor
• Colander (to drain pasta)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare 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, usually about 8-10 minutes.
2. Drain and set aside: Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and set aside. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water for later use if needed.
3. Soak the cashews: While the pasta cooks, soak the raw cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes to soften. This helps create a smooth sauce.
4. Blend the sauce: Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender along with the plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more plant milk or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Pour the cashew cheese sauce over the cooked pasta in a mixing bowl. Toss well to coat every piece of macaroni with the creamy sauce.
6. Heat gently: For a warm dish, transfer the combined pasta and sauce back to the pot and heat over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Do not boil.
7. Serve immediately: Garnish with freshly ground black pepper, a sprinkle of paprika, or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your creamy, comforting vegan mac and cheese!

Tips & Variations

“For an even richer flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce before blending.”

If you want to customize your mac and cheese, here are some ideas:

• Add steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Mix in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a savory twist.
• For a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Try swapping cashews for blanched almonds or sunflower seeds if you have nut allergies.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This vegan mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside your favorite vegan protein such as grilled tofu or tempeh.

It also makes a fantastic filling for stuffed bell peppers or a topping for vegan shepherd’s pie. If you’re interested in trying other comforting recipes, you might enjoy our Bread And Gravy Recipe or our savory Boots And Sonny’S Chili Recipe.

Conclusion

This 3 ingredient vegan mac and cheese recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting and delicious. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a classic comfort food without dairy or complicated processes.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a longtime plant-based eater, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor from nutritional yeast, and the wholesome goodness of cashews, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own and explore other tasty recipes like our Breakfast Wellington Recipe or the flavorful Blueberry Mule With Blueberry Vodka Recipe for your next meal or gathering.

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