Get ready to transform your plant-based pasta game with the most addictive Vegan Jalapeno Mac and Cheese that'll make your taste buds dance and your dairy-free dreams come true! Imagine a creamy, dreamy pasta dish that packs a spicy punch while keeping things completely animal-product free - this isn't just another boring vegan recipe, this is a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen. Whether you're a committed vegan, a spice lover, or just someone looking to shake up their dinner routine, this recipe will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about mac and cheese.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cashews, soaked
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1-2 jalapenos, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Soak cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes to soften, then drain and rinse thoroughly.
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a high-speed blender, combine soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, half of the chopped jalapenos, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding a little water if needed to achieve a sauce-like consistency.
- Pour the cashew cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and mix well, ensuring all pasta is evenly coated.
- Finely chop the remaining jalapenos and fold them into the mac and cheese for added heat and flavor.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Optional: For a crispy top, lightly drizzle oil over the breadcrumbs and place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes, then serve hot, garnished with additional chopped jalapenos if desired.
Tips
- Cashew Soaking Secret: For the smoothest, creamiest sauce, soak your cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes. The longer they soak, the more easily they'll blend into a silky sauce.
- Spice Control: Adjust jalapeno quantities based on your heat tolerance. Remove seeds for a milder version or keep them in for maximum fire.
- Nutritional Yeast Hack: This ingredient is key for that classic cheesy flavor. Don't skip it, and buy a high-quality brand for best results.
- Texture Tip: For extra crunch, toast your breadcrumbs in a pan with a little oil before sprinkling on top for a more golden, crispy finish.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated. Just add a splash of plant-based milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
