Creamy Vegan Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe
Looking for a delicious way to enjoy comfort food that's also kid-friendly? This creamy Vegan Broccoli Mac and Cheese is your answer! With a rich and creamy vegan cheese sauce, this dish is not only satisfying but also packed with hidden veggies, making it perfect for families looking for easy vegan comfort food. Trust me, even the pickiest eaters will love this dish!
This plant-based mac and cheese features a dreamy cashew cheese sauce that mimics the creaminess of traditional cheese sauce but without any dairy. Plus, the addition of steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrients that kids will love. It's a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while still satisfying that mac and cheese craving.
The Allure of Vegan Mac and Cheese
Creamy Vegan Broccoli Mac and Cheese captures the essence of comfort food in a wholesome, plant-based package. This dish brings together the delightful combination of tender pasta and vibrant green broccoli, all enveloped in a rich cashew cheese sauce. It's an appealing option for families, especially for those seeking kid-friendly vegan recipes that pack a nutritious punch while satisfying the cravings for traditional mac and cheese.
A Closer Look at the Ingredients
The foundation of this vegan mac and cheese lies in the cashew cheese sauce, which is crafted from soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, and a hint of spices. This dairy-free mac and cheese alternative not only replicates the creamy texture but also delivers on flavor, creating a delightful experience with every bite. Broccoli florets are added for color and nutrition, making it a perfect example of hidden veggie recipes for kids. Each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing this dish to life.
Preparation Made Simple
Whipping up this comforting meal is remarkably straightforward. Begin by cooking the pasta to al dente perfection, incorporating the broccoli during the final moments for gentle steaming. While the pasta and broccoli come together, blend the ingredients for the cashew cheese sauce until smooth and creamy, ensuring every bite is enveloped in flavor.
The Perfect Combination
Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked and drained, combine them with the luscious cashew cheese sauce in the same pot. Toss gently until every piece of pasta is coated in the smooth sauce, creating a visually appealing and appetizing dish. This creamy broccoli mac and cheese vegan style offers a delightful sight, with the green florets peeking through the golden sauce.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
For an appealing presentation, dish out the mac and cheese into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs. This step not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor that complements the creamy sauce. Feel free to explore variations by incorporating other vegetables or spices, allowing for personalization based on preferences.
The Joy of Easy Vegan Comfort Food
This creamy vegan broccoli mac and cheese not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart. As a plant-based option, it serves as a wonderful choice for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. The dish embodies the spirit of easy vegan comfort food, making it a frequent choice for those looking to enjoy hearty meals without compromising on health or ethics.
The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese Recipe
This vegan mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The cashew cheese sauce is made from blended cashews, nutritional yeast, and a few simple spices, creating a rich and satisfying sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Combined with tender broccoli, it becomes a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta of choice)
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours and drained)
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
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. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cashew Cheese Sauce: In a blender, combine soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, almond milk, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Combine: In the same pot used for the pasta, add the drained macaroni and broccoli. Pour the cashew cheese sauce over the pasta and broccoli, and stir to combine. Heat gently over low heat until warmed through.
Serve: Dish out the creamy vegan mac and cheese into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your hidden veggie recipes for kids!
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350kcal
Fat: 15g
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 45g
