The Ultimate "Anytime" Mac & Cheese: Creamy, Dreamy, and Secretly Vegan Recipe
- Luis and JudyAnn
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Let’s be honest: there is no problem in life that a bowl of hot, gooey mac and cheese cannot
at least temporarily solve. It is the ultimate comfort food. But for a long time, going plant-based meant saying goodbye to that nostalgic, neon-orange comfort. Not anymore!
If you’ve been burned by vegan cheese sauces that taste like chalky nuts or sad vegetables, I need you to trust me on this one. This recipe is the holy grail. It’s velvety, it’s savory, and it has that signature "pull" without a drop of dairy.
Whether you are hosting a skeptical non-vegan family member, looking for a 20-minute weeknight dinner, or bringing a side dish to a fancy holiday potluck, this is the recipe that fits every single occasion.
Why This Recipe is Your New "Go-To"
Why do I call this the "Anytime" Mac? Because it is a shapeshifter. It fits into your life exactly where you need it:
The Lazy Tuesday: It comes together in the time it takes to boil the pasta. No roux, no whisking for hours. just blend and pour.
The "Impress the In-Laws" Dinner: Bake it with a crispy panko-herb crust, and it suddenly looks like a gourmet bistro dish.
The Kid-Friendly Lunch: The orange color comes from carrots and turmeric, meaning you are sneaking in vegetables, and they won't even know it.
The Holiday Potluck: It is naturally dairy-free, soy-free (depending on your milk choice), and can be gluten-free. It’s the safest, most delicious bet for a mixed crowd.
The Ultimate Vegan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 15 mins | Servings: 4-8
Ingredients
For the "Cheese" Sauce:
6 cup boiling water
8oz -1 bag of Violife, Just Like Colby Jack Shreds
8oz - Supreme Cream Cheese
1 tbsp Organic Better Than Bouillon® Seasoned Vegetable Base (for flavor)
1 tsp salt & pepper (plus more to taste)
For the Pasta:
1 lb (16 oz) Large macaroni or shell pasta (use gluten-free if needed)
Optional (but recommended) Toppings:
Panko breadcrumbs
Fresh parsley
Red pepper flakes
Directions
Directions should always be short and to the point.
1. Cook the Pasta While boiling, cook your pasta in heavily seasoned water with Organic Better Than Bouillon® Seasoned Vegetable Base according to pasta package directions. Pro Tip: Do not drain the pasta! This is a one pot lazy mac & cheese. The starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
2. Pour the Vegan Cheeses Add the whole tub of vegan cream cheese and the whole bag of vegan shredded cheese, salt, pepper over the cooked pasta.
3. Stir Until Smooth Until the mixture is completely liquid gold in low heat. It should be glossy and smooth. If it is too thick, add plant based milk of your choice one tablespoon at a time. Taste it! Does it need more salt? More pepper? Adjust to your liking.
4.Conquer Until every noodle is coated in thick, creamy goodness.
5. The "Fancy" Step (Optional) If you want to bake it: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil. Broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
3 Ways to Remix This Recipe
The Buffalo Mac: Stir in ¼ cup of buffalo sauce and top with green onions and crispy chickpeas. perfect for game day.
The Green Machine: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or baby spinach at the very end for a healthy nutrient boost.
The Truffle Treat: Drizzle with high-quality truffle oil and cracked black pepper for a date-night vibe.
Enjoy your bowl of comfort!
Why You Should Try This Recipe
There’s nothing like gathering around a steaming bowl of mac and cheese with your loved ones. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at your next dinner party, this Ultimate Vegan Mac & Cheese Recipe is a must-try.
Conclusion
Are you ready to cozy up with a bowl of this flavorful Ultimate Vegan Mac & Cheese Recipe? It’s the perfect way to chase the chill away and bring your family or friends together. So, grab your ingredients, hit the kitchen, and start simmering! Don’t forget to experiment with your own twists on this recipe and share your creations with us in the comments below. Let’s expand our minds, explore our palates, and keep chasing the flavor, friends! 🍲✨
