Get ready to indulge in a delightful twist on a classic comfort food with these Vegan Mac and Cheese Bites! Perfectly crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy on the inside, these bite-sized treats are not just a snack; they’re a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a fun appetizer, or simply want to enjoy a guilt-free treat, these Vegan Mac and Cheese Bites are sure to impress. Read on to discover how to whip up this mouthwatering recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup macaroni
- 1 cup cashews, soaked
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with olive oil spray.
- Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender. Add nutritional yeast, almond milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- Blend the cashew mixture until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure a uniform consistency.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the blended cashew cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to coat all pasta evenly.
- Gently fold breadcrumbs into the mac and cheese mixture, reserving some for topping.
- Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup to the top. Sprinkle remaining breadcrumbs over each bite.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Carefully remove bites using a small offset spatula.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or snack, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
Tips
- Soak the Cashews: For the creamiest texture, soak your cashews for at least 2 hours before blending. This softens them and makes it easier to achieve a smooth cheese sauce.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to get creative! Add spices like smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick, or mix in some sautéed vegetables for added nutrition.
- Don’t Skimp on the Breadcrumbs: For an extra crunchy topping, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They’ll give your bites a delightful crunch!
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bites while they bake. Ovens can vary, so start checking around the 20-minute mark to prevent over-browning.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Elevate your Vegan Mac and Cheese Bites by serving them with a tangy dipping sauce, like a vegan ranch or a spicy sriracha mayo, for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
