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Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese

A delightful plant-based spin on a classic favorite, this Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese is creamy, comforting, and perfect for both kids and adults.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Plant-Based, Vegan
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 1 box Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta Choose your favorite pasta shape for texture.
  • 2 large Yukon Gold Potatoes These creamy potatoes will create a luscious base for the cheese sauce.
  • 3 medium Carrots Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets Fresh broccoli adds nutrients and crunch.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic For an aromatic flavor.
  • ¼ cup Nutritional Yeast Provides cheesy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar Brightens the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Freshly-Squeezed Lemon Juice Adds freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Enhances the overall taste.
  • ½ teaspoon Paprika Introduces warmth.
  • ⅛ teaspoon Turmeric Powder Adds a beautiful hue.
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • ¼ teaspoon Ground Pepper Enhances the creaminess.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash and scrub the Yukon Gold potatoes and carrots under cold water and pat dry.
  2. Peel and cut the potatoes and carrots into large chunks.
  3. Add the chopped vegetables to a pot, cover with water by an inch, and add a pinch of salt.
  4. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Cooking
  1. Boil for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender. Meanwhile, steam the broccoli for 3 to 4 minutes.
  2. Drain the vegetables, reserving 1 cup of the cooking water, and let cool.
  3. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
  4. In a bowl, combine the garlic, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper; whisk together.
  5. In a blender, combine the boiled potatoes, carrots, nutritional yeast, and reserved liquid, then blend until smooth.
Combining
  1. In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta and steamed broccoli, then pour the creamy sauce over and mix well.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For added flavor, try incorporating cayenne pepper or Italian herbs. Customize with different veggies or plant-based cheeses.