Vegetarian Mac N Cheese Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

Mac n cheese is a classic comfort food beloved by many, but traditional recipes often rely heavily on dairy and meat-based ingredients. Luckily, you don’t have to miss out on that creamy, cheesy goodness if you follow a vegetarian lifestyle.

This vegetarian mac n cheese recipe is rich, velvety, and packed with flavor, using wholesome plant-based ingredients that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe offers a delicious alternative that’s easy to make and satisfying.

Imagine a bowl of perfectly cooked pasta coated in a luscious, cheesy sauce made from real cheese and creamy milk, enhanced with a hint of garlic and nutmeg, and baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

It’s the ultimate cozy meal that’s both hearty and wholesome. Plus, it’s versatile enough to add your favorite vegetables or spices for a customized twist.

If you love exploring vegetarian meals, you might also enjoy our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or try the Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners for more creamy pasta ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian mac n cheese is a winner because it balances creamy, cheesy richness with wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish. The recipe uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, so you likely have most of what you need on hand.

It’s also highly adaptable. You can easily add steamed broccoli, roasted tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.

The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful texture contrast that elevates the dish from simple to spectacular.

Plus, it’s a great way to get picky eaters excited about vegetables hidden in a familiar favorite! For more easy vegetarian crowd-pleasers, check out our Slow Cooker Vegetarian Recipes Easy and Delicious Ideas.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk (or plant-based milk for vegan option)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for topping)
• Optional vegetables: steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing spoon
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (for shredding cheese if not pre-shredded)

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste. This cooks out the raw flour taste.
3. Add the milk: Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble gently, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season and add cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until all the pasta is evenly coated.
6. Prepare the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter until evenly coated.
7. Assemble the dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the mac and cheese uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream into the sauce before baking.

• Try adding steamed vegetables such as broccoli or peas for a nutritious boost.
• For a smoky twist, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the cheese sauce.
• Make it vegan by using plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives. You can also check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes for a great dairy-free sauce base.
• For a crunchy topping alternative, mix crushed cornflakes or walnuts with the breadcrumbs.
• Swap elbow macaroni for other pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi for a fun texture change.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian mac n cheese pairs wonderfully with fresh green salads or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery brightness that cuts through the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.

For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic bread or our flavorful Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals to add an exotic twist to your dinner table.

Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave, though we recommend reheating in the oven to keep the breadcrumb topping crispy and delicious.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more meatless meals into your week, this vegetarian mac n cheese recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. It combines the ultimate comfort food vibes with wholesome ingredients, making it both nourishing and indulgent.

With simple steps, minimal ingredients, and plenty of room for customization, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic dish with a fresh, veggie-friendly twist.

Don’t forget to explore more delicious vegetarian options like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for more inspiration. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying homemade mac n cheese!

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