Crispy Baked Vegan Mac and Cheese

Discover the Magic of Crispy Baked Vegan Mac and Cheese: A Comforting Dish You Can Make in Just 35 Minutes!

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a creamy bowl of mac and cheese. But what if you could enjoy a deliciously cheesy, comforting dish that’s not only mouthwatering but also completely vegan? Enter Crispy Baked Vegan Mac and Cheese! This dish takes traditional comfort food to new heights, ensuring that everyone, regardless of dietary preferences, can indulge in its creamy goodness. Plus, you’ll be surprised at how simple and quick it is to prepare!

Why Make This Recipe

This Crispy Baked Vegan Mac and Cheese is not just another pasta dish; it embodies the essence of comfort food while remaining completely plant-based. The magic comes from simple, wholesome ingredients like roasted butternut squash and cashews, which together create a creamy and decadent sauce that feels just like the classic version you love. By making it at home, you get to control the flavors and ingredients, ensuring a dish that’s healthy, delicious, and free from any unpleasant additives.

You’ll love that this vegan mac and cheese is packed with flavor, thanks to nutritional yeast and spices, filling your kitchen with the scent of indulgence. Plus, the crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that transforms each bite into a satisfying experience. Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing friends at gatherings, this dish is sure to win hearts!

How to Make Crispy Baked Vegan Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

1 small-medium butternut squash (about 2 1/4 pounds or 1 kg)
Olive oil or avocado oil (for roasting and tossing pasta)
1/2 cup (~70g) raw cashews, soaked in cool water overnight or in boiling water for 1 hour and then drained
3/4 cup (60g) nutritional yeast (for an extra cheesy flavor)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional for a nice sharp taste)
1 tablespoon mellow white or yellow miso paste
1 (13.5 ounce/400 mL) can "lite" coconut milk
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon tapioca flour (see the FAQ section for substitutes)
12 ounces (340g) elbow macaroni (gluten-free options available)
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt + more to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
3/4 cup + 2 tbsp (60-65g) panko bread crumbs
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
Scant 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 1/2 tablespoons vegan butter (melted)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Using a sharp knife, slice the butternut squash in half and scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
Bake the squash by placing the halves, cut side up, on a baking sheet. Rub lightly with olive oil or avocado oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Bake for 45-55 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
While the squash is baking, prepare the crispy breadcrumb topping by mixing panko bread crumbs, nutritional yeast, salt, paprika, and melted vegan butter in a small bowl.
In a large saucepan, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and toss with a bit of olive oil.
Once the squash is roasted, scoop out the flesh, discarding the skin. Measure out 1 1/2 cups (310-330g) of the flesh for the cheese sauce.
Lower your oven to 400°F (205°C) and grease a 3-quart/3-liter baking dish with oil or melted vegan butter.
In a high-powered blender, combine the squash flesh, soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, spices, miso paste, tapioca flour, lemon juice, coconut milk, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, tasting and adjusting seasonings as needed.
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni, mix well, and then transfer it to your baking dish. Top with the crispy breadcrumb mixture.
Bake for 18-20 minutes until the topping is crispy and golden. Allow cooling for 10-20 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Vegan Mac and Cheese

Serving up your Crispy Baked Vegan Mac and Cheese is a breeze! You can enjoy it hot straight from the oven or let it cool down a bit for easier serving. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. If you like a bit of extra zing, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish even more.

How to Store Crispy Baked Vegan Mac and Cheese

If you happen to have any leftover mac and cheese (which is rare!), you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven until warmed through or microwave it for a quick fix. If you’d like to freeze it, make sure it’s well-sealed and you can enjoy it for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Crispy Baked Vegan Mac and Cheese

Customize Your Cheese Sauce: Feel free to add spices or herbs to the cheese sauce according to your preference. A bit of cayenne pepper can add some heat!
Make It Gluten-Free: Swap elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta or use chickpea pasta for added protein.
Add Veggies: You can sneak in some cooked spinach, broccoli, or cauliflower into the mac and cheese for an extra nutrient boost.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a variety of toppings! Some ideas include diced tomatoes, olives, or even sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different types of vegan cheese to find your favorite combination.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without butternut squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with sweet potato or pumpkin. These will still provide a lovely creamy texture while adding their unique flavors.

How do I make this recipe nut-free?
For a nut-free version, you could add silken tofu instead of cashews, or opt for sunflower seeds blended into the sauce.

Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish and assemble it in your baking dish, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Now you’re ready to dive into the comforting world of Crispy Baked Vegan Mac and Cheese, making every meal a delightful feast! Enjoy each creamy, crunchy bite!