Vegan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
A delightful twist on classic mac and cheese using creamy cashew cheese sauce and roasted butternut squash, perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike.
Ingredients
Cashew Cheese Sauce
- 1.25 cups raw, unsalted cashews soaked overnight (or quickly for 1 hour in hot water) Soak to soften for blending.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice Adds a zesty brightness.
- 0.75 cups almond milk (or any other plant-based milk) For creaminess.
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast Gives a cheesy flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder For robust aroma.
- 0.5 tsp onion powder Adds sweet and savory depth.
- 0.25 tsp turmeric For hint of warmth and color.
- 0.5 tsp English mustard To amplify the cheese-like tang.
- 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper For a gentle kick.
- 0.25 tsp sea salt Enhances all flavors.
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash Sweet and luscious when roasted.
- 1 tbsp olive oil Adds richness.
- 0.5 tsp sea salt For roasting.
- 2 cups macaroni (or pasta of your choice) Base of the dish.
- 1 head broccoli (cut into florets) Adds color and nutrition.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the butternut squash by peeling, deseeding, and cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Transfer chunks to the baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, and toss with sea salt.
Roasting
- Roast the squash in the oven for about 30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cashew Cheese Sauce
- In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, lemon juice, almond milk, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, English mustard, cayenne pepper, and sea salt. Blend until smooth.
Cooking Pasta & Broccoli
- Cook the pasta and broccoli according to package instructions. Add broccoli during the last 2 minutes of cooking, then drain, reserving 250 ml (about a cup) of pasta water.
Combine & Serve
- Once the squash is done roasting, add it to the blender with the cashew cheese sauce. Blend together until well incorporated, adding reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the drained pasta and broccoli, stirring gently to coat.
Notes
For a nuttier texture, blend cashew cheese sauce until partially smooth, leaving some bits. Customize flavor with spices like smoked paprika or nutmeg.