Name: Gluten Free Vegan Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Ingredients: 4 cups gluten-free pasta, cooked (Tinkyada brand is great); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons gluten-free flour (I use sorghum or buckwheat); 1/2 cup rice milk; 1/2 cup butternut squash or 1/2 cup yam, pureed; 1 (10 ounce) package soy cheddar cheese, cut into 1-inch chunks (Follow Your Heart brand); 4 ounces tofutti better-than-cream-cheese (non-hydrogenated, in the yellow pkg); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/8 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

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Welcome to my kitchen, where gluten-free and dairy-free recipes are always on the menu! As a nutritionist and food blogger, I believe that healthy eating should never mean compromising on taste. That’s why I want to share with you my latest creation: Gluten-Free Vegan Macaroni and Cheese Recipe.

This recipe is the perfect combination of creamy and savory, with a satisfying texture that will make you forget that it’s dairy-free. It’s plant-based, allergy-friendly, and incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re not a vegan or have dietary restrictions, this recipe will surely impress you.

With simple ingredients like gluten-free elbow pasta, a blend of soy cheddar cheese & Tofutti cream cheese, raw cashews, unsweetened dairy-free milk and nutritional yeast flakes, you can whip up a bowl of delicious mac and cheese that everyone will love.

So put on your apron and join me in creating this healthy comfort food classic- the gluten-free vegan macaroni and cheese!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you looking for a comforting and scrumptious dish that is both gluten-free and vegan? Look no further! Our gluten-free vegan macaroni and cheese recipe is the perfect way to satisfy your cravings in a healthy and ethical manner.

Firstly, this recipe features ingredients that are nutritious and wholesome including raw cashews, soy-free vegan mozzarella cheese, and unsweetened dairy-free milk such as oat milk. The recipe also calls for gluten-free elbow pasta which can be found at most grocery stores, so you can indulge in a classic comfort food without sacrificing your dietary needs.

Secondly, this mac and cheese recipe is dairy-free which makes it ideal for individuals who are lactose intolerant or who suffer from dairy allergies. Instead of using traditional cheese, we use alternatives such as Tofutti Better-Than-Cream-Cheese and soy cheddar cheese which contribute to the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

Lastly, our recipe is incredibly versatile, meaning that you can add or replace any ingredient to create your own unique version. You could use rice pasta instead of gluten-free elbow pasta or Daiya cheddar instead of soy cheddar cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous you could even try adding some diced onions or mushrooms to the sauce for a tasty twist.

In summary, our gluten-free vegan macaroni and cheese recipe is not only delicious but also healthy, cruelty-free and allergy-friendly. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy any craving while staying within your dietary preferences. This recipe isn’t just great for those following a vegan or gluten-free diet; it’s perfect for anyone looking to indulge in comfort food without the added guilt. Try it out today and believe us when we say that once you try it, you’ll never look back!

Ingredient List

Creamy vegan mac and cheese, made gluten-free and dairy-free! 😋🧀

Gluten-free elbow pasta provides the base for this dish, making it a great option for those who need to avoid gluten. You can use any gluten-free pasta of your choice such as rice, lentil, quinoa, or chickpea-based.

Nutritional yeast: This is a game-changer in vegan cooking. It adds a nutty, cheesy flavor and is high in vitamins and minerals, particularly B-complex vitamins.
Raw cashews make the creamy base for the sauce, giving it a silky texture without using any dairy products.
Unsweetened dairy-free milk, such as oat milk, provides a neutral base for the sauce and enhances the creamy texture further.
Toffuti better-than-cream-cheese brings the creaminess and slight tang of traditional cream cheese. For soy-free alternatives, you can use vegan cream cheese.
Soy cheddar cheese or Vegan Mozzarella: Adds richness to the sauce and improves its velvety texture. Look for cheese brands that are soy-free if you have allergies.
Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper: Traditional mac & cheese flavorings that give the dish its classic taste.
Olive oil used to sauté vegetables enhances the flavors of this recipe.
Gluten-free flour is used as a thickening agent to make the cheese sauce rich and velvety.
Vegan butter or margarine can be used optionally for additional richness but is not necessary.

This allergy-friendly recipe uses plant-based ingredients that are free from gluten, dairy, and soy. These best vegan mac and cheese ingredients guarantee maximum taste with high protein content without leaving you feeling weighed down!

The Recipe How-To

Say hello to your new favorite comfort food! 🍴

Cooking the Pasta

The first step is to cook your gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure not to overcook it! Gluten-free pasta tends to get mushy quickly if left in boiling water for too long.
Drain the cooked pasta and rinse it gently with cold water, then set it aside.

Making the Cheese Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine 1 cup of raw cashews with 2 cups of unsweetened dairy-free milk, 3 tbsp of nutritional yeast, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of paprika, and ½ tsp of salt.
Blend the ingredients until they’re smooth and creamy.
In a medium saucepan, heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil on medium-high heat.
Add in 4 tbsp of gluten-free flour and stir continuously for about two minutes until it turns into a paste-like consistency.
Slowly pour in the cheese sauce while stirring constantly until it thickens up.
Add in a pinch of pepper and stir well to combine.
Finally, fold in 8 ounces of shredded soy cheddar cheese, or other vegan cheese like Daiya or Vegan Mozzarella.

Assembling Everything Together

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated.
Pour the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish and smooth out the surface with a spoon or spatula.
Top it off with some additional shredded vegan cheese and sprinkle some extra paprika on top if desired.
Bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, until the mixture is hot all the way through and the cheese on top has melted into a nice golden brown crust on top.
Let it sit for a few minutes to cool before serving to avoid burning your tongue!

And voila, there you have it, the perfect gluten-free vegan mac and cheese!

Substitutions and Variations

You won't believe this mac and cheese is vegan and gluten-free! 🤯 — You won’t believe this mac and cheese is vegan and gluten-free! 🤯

If you want to personalize this recipe, there are many ways to make some alterations here and there. In case you don’t have any gluten-free pasta on hand, don’t fret. You can experiment with different types of pasta, like chickpea or lentil pasta, or even try using spiralized vegetables like butternut squash noodles for a lower carb option.

For those with nut allergies who can’t use cashews for the sauces, substitute soaked sunflower seeds or cauliflower for the creaminess. Daiya Cheddar Cheese or Amy’s Vegan Mac & Cheese is a great alternative to soy cheddar cheese that is also lactose and gluten-free.

If you’re looking for a higher protein vegan mac and cheese, add in some plant-based protein powder to the sauce for an extra boost.

For those who are not particularly fond of nutritional yeast, you can try substituting with grated vegan Parmesan cheese or even omit it from the recipe as it purely adds a tangy cheesy flavor.

If you want to make your own gluten-free flour mix at home, combine equal parts of almond flour, arrowroot starch, and coconut flour. This creates a great gluten-free combination of flours that can be used in this recipe or many others.

Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to kick things up a notch, try adding some diced jalapenos or other hot peppers to give your mac and cheese recipe a spicy twist. Whether you’re looking for a milder version or something with an extra kick, this recipe is perfect for making your own version of homemade mac and cheese.

Serving and Pairing

Boiling the gluten-free macaroni until al dente is key for the perfect texture. 🍝

Now that your delicious gluten-free vegan mac and cheese is ready, it’s time to serve it and enjoy the delicious flavors. This cheesy delight is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual potluck with friends.

For a meal that is rich in flavors, serve your mac and cheese alongside some roasted brussels sprouts and garlic-roasted cauliflower. You can also add some fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a refreshing twist.

To complement the buttery and nutty flavor of our recipe, pair it with a glass of dry white wine, crisp rosé or tart lemonade. This pairing will cut through the richness of the dish with a refreshing and tangy taste.

If you’re looking for something more substantial, add some protein to your plate. Some vegan sausage or fried mushrooms make for great add-ons to this already delicious dish.

With the versatility of this gluten-free mac and cheese recipe, the pairing options are endless. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or something hearty, this recipe will surely be satisfying to everyone around the table.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

For the sauce, I used a blend of cashews, nutritional yeast, and seasonings! 🌿

One of the best things about this gluten-free and vegan macaroni and cheese recipe is that it can be easily made ahead of time. You can assemble the dish up until the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to two days.

When you’re ready to serve, simply take it out of the fridge, remove the plastic wrap, and pop it in the oven to bake until heated through and bubbly on top. This makes meal planning a breeze because you can make it the day before when you have more time, then quickly heat it up for dinner when you’re ready.

To store leftovers, transfer any unused portions of macaroni and cheese into an airtight container once it has completely cooled down. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. Alternatively, you can freeze any leftover macaroni and cheese in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for up to 3 months.

When reheating, simply transfer the desired amount of macaroni and cheese into a microwave-safe dish or oven-safe dish lined with parchment paper (for easy clean-up). Reheat in the microwave for around 2-3 minutes or bake, covered with aluminum foil, at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

Keep in mind that this recipe has a creamy vegan sauce that could separate or thicken up after refrigerating or freezing. If you find that it’s too thick after reheating, add a splash of unsweetened dairy-free milk (such as oat milk) to thin out the sauce as needed.

Overall, this make-ahead and storing process is perfect for busy schedules and last-minute dinner plans. And who doesn’t love having delicious gluten-free vegan mac and cheese on hand ready to go whenever you need it?

Tips for Perfect Results

Once the sauce is blended, it will be thick and creamy, just like traditional mac and cheese sauce! 😍

When it comes to creating the perfect gluten-free, vegan mac and cheese, there are a few tricks of the trade that I’ve picked up over the years. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time:

1. Don’t overcook your pasta: Overcooked pasta can quickly turn to mush, which is not ideal for mac and cheese. Make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package and stop cooking your pasta when it reaches al dente.

2. Use high-quality dairy-free cheese: There are plenty of amazing dairy-free cheese brands on the market these days, so don’t skimp on quality. Daiya cheddar or Vegan Mozzarella are great options for this recipe.

3. Add nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast is a staple in vegan cooking and adds a cheesy flavor to dishes. Use 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast in this recipe for optimal flavor.

4. Blend your cashews until silky smooth: Raw cashews are a creamy and delicious alternative to heavy cream in vegan cooking. Make sure to blend them until they’re silky smooth before adding them to your mac and cheese sauce.

5. Be careful when using gluten-free pasta: Gluten-free pasta can be more delicate than traditional pasta, so be gentle when handling it. Don’t rinse it under cold water after cooking as this can cause it to become gummy.

6. Experiment with seasonings: While salt and pepper are essential, don’t be afraid to experiment with other seasonings like garlic powder and paprika for added flavor.

7. Use unsweetened dairy-free milk: When making your cheese sauce, make sure your dairy-free milk is unsweetened so it doesn’t throw off the flavor balance of your dish.

8. Make sure your oven is preheated: If you’re baking your mac and cheese, make sure your oven is fully preheated before putting in the dish. This will ensure even cooking and prevent hot spots.

These tips will help you create the best gluten-free, vegan mac and cheese you’ve ever tasted. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your ingredients and seasonings to make it your own.

FAQ

Now that you know the basics of this gluten-free vegan macaroni and cheese recipe, it’s time to address some of the common questions and concerns that may arise. In this section, I will be answering frequently asked questions to guide you in making the best version of this dish possible. From ingredient substitutions to tips on avoiding clumpy sauce, read on for everything you need to know before diving into this dairy-free indulgence.

What cheese is vegan and gluten-free?

When you want a delicious vegan cheese option that is also made with organic and non-GMO ingredients while being gluten-free and soy-free, Miyoko’s Classic Fresh Italian Style Vegan Mozzarella Cheese is the perfect choice.

Is Velveeta mac and cheese vegan?

Velveeta cheese is not suitable for those following a vegan diet as it includes various animal-derived ingredients such as milk, whey, milk protein concentrate and milk fat, as well as other additives and preservatives.

What can I use instead of cheese in mac and cheese?

When it comes to making mac and cheese, using cheese can add a lot of flavor and creaminess to the dish. Although, it is important to be aware of the amount of saturated fat it contains. The good news is that there’s no need to compromise on taste as you can create a healthier version of mac and cheese with the same richness and cheesy flavor.

Is Daiya mac and cheese gluten-free?

Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for a delicious and allergy-friendly mac and cheese. This recipe features Daiya’s Mac & Cheeze, which is a great option for those with dietary restrictions such as gluten, soy, egg, and peanut allergies. What’s more, this product is certified Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Halal (with the exception of the Bac’n Cheddar Flavor). So, if you’re looking for a tasty and worry-free way to enjoy mac and cheese, keep reading!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEgLIOtVdpU

Bottom Line

As we conclude this article, I want to remind you that healthy and delicious meals can go hand in hand. The Gluten-free Vegan Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a perfect example of how we can enjoy comfort food without sacrificing our wellbeing. Not only is this recipe allergy-friendly, but it also guarantees an explosion of flavors and aromas that will leave you and your loved ones wanting more.

By choosing to make this vegan macaroni and cheese recipe, you are making a conscious decision not only for your own health but for the environment too. Plant-based meals have shown to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve land usage and reduce water consumption. Not only are you making a positive impact on your health, but on the world as well.

I hope this recipe will inspire you to explore more healthy options in the kitchen. Remember to experiment with flavors and textures to create unique meals tailored to your personal preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this gluten-free vegan macaroni and cheese recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a high-protein, dairy-free, and allergy-friendly meal.

What are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen now, gather your ingredients, turn up some music, and let’s cook up something amazing together! Trust me; this Vegan Mac and Cheese is the perfect way to satisfy all kinds of taste buds while keeping things guilt-free!

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