Inspired by: @sensiblevegan
Craving that classic, comforting mac and cheese but looking for a healthier, dairy-free alternative? Look no further! This Creamy Vegan Cauliflower Mac and Cheese recipe is a game-changer, proving that plant-based comfort food can be just as decadent and satisfying as its traditional counterpart. It's the perfect answer for those seeking easy weeknight vegan meals or a clever way to sneak more vegetables into a beloved dish.
As sensiblevegan shared, this recipe is so good, it "has replaced my recipe!" And what's even better, it’s a fantastic way to get the whole family involved in the kitchen. As one commenter put it, "Nice that you cook with your daughter! Wish my parents would’ve done so." Making this creamy, cheesy goodness together can be a truly fun and rewarding family affair! Another fan chimed in, "Looks so good!!" – and they're right! This recipe delivers on taste, texture, and wholesome goodness.
Whether you're new to vegan cooking, have dietary restrictions, or simply want to explore delicious plant-based options, this cauliflower-based "cheese" sauce creates an incredibly rich, smooth, and flavorful experience without any dairy. It's truly vegan comfort food at its finest!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Naturally Dairy-Free: Achieve that signature creamy texture using wholesome cauliflower and plant-based ingredients.
- Healthier Twist: Packed with the goodness of cauliflower, offering a nutrient boost compared to traditional cheese sauces.
- Family-Friendly: A delicious way to get kids excited about vegetables, often without them even realizing it!
- Easy & Quick: Simple steps make this a perfect dish for busy weeknights or relaxed family cooking sessions.
- Rich & Flavorful: Thanks to nutritional yeast and a blend of spices, the sauce delivers a deep, umami-rich "cheesy" flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (about 250g) dry elbow pasta or your favorite macaroni shape
- 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups florets), cored and cut into florets
- 1.5 cups unsweetened plant milk (almond, oat, or soy work well)
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder (for color, optional)
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter for richer flavor
Equipment
- Large pot
- Blender (high-speed recommended)
- Colander
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Cook the Cauliflower: While the pasta cooks, steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are very tender, about 8-10 minutes. They should be easily pierced with a fork. Drain well.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a blender. Add the plant milk, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric powder (if using), dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. If using, add olive oil or vegan butter.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water at a time until desired consistency is reached. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.
- Combine & Serve: Pour the creamy cauliflower cheese sauce over the cooked pasta in the large pot. Stir gently to combine, ensuring every noodle is coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations & Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Add Veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli florets, peas, or sautéed spinach during the last step for an even more wholesome meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Smoky Flavor: A tiny amount of smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon) can add a delightful smoky depth to the "cheese" sauce.
- Baked Mac & Cheese: For a crispy topping, transfer the prepared mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs or a little vegan cheese shreds, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips for Success
- Don't Skimp on Blending: Blend the sauce for at least 2-3 minutes to ensure it's incredibly smooth and free of any cauliflower lumps. A high-speed blender will achieve the best results.
- Perfect Consistency: The consistency of the sauce is key. If it's too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired creaminess. If too thin, you can gently heat it in a saucepan, stirring constantly, to allow it to thicken slightly, or add a bit more nutritional yeast.
- Season to Taste: Always taste the sauce before combining with the pasta and adjust salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast to your preference. The mustard is subtle but enhances the cheesy flavor, so don't skip it!
This dairy-free mac and cheese is sure to become a beloved staple in your home, just as it did for sensiblevegan. It’s comforting, easy, and undeniably delicious!
Related Articles
- Hungry for more cheesy goodness? Check out this Vegan Mac N' Cheese Recipe.
- Explore another family-friendly pasta dish with this Easy & Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese with Broccoli & Greens.
- Looking for versatile dairy-free sauces? Don't miss The Easiest Life-Changing Dairy-Free Nacho Cheese Sauce.
- For more quick and satisfying vegan pasta ideas, try Quick & Creamy Vegan Cheesy Pasta.
Ready to try this amazing recipe? Whip up a batch of this creamy vegan cauliflower mac and cheese tonight and share your creations with the abillion community! We can’t wait to see your delicious results.
