Vegan Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

There’s no need to miss out on the creamy, comforting experience of mac and cheese if you’ve embraced a plant-based lifestyle. This vegan copycat version brings all the rich flavors and cozy textures of the beloved café dish to your table, with a twist that’s kinder to both you and the planet.

Ingredients for the Perfect Vegan Mac and Cheese

Creating a vegan version of mac and cheese might seem challenging at first, but with the right ingredients, you can achieve a delectable, cheesy flavor without any dairy. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup raw cashews
• 2 1/2 cups water (divided)
• 4 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• 12 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded vegan cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to whip up your own batch of mouth-watering vegan mac and cheese at home.

1. Soak the Cashews

First, you’ll need to soften the cashews to create a smooth and creamy sauce. Soak the cashews in 1 cup of water for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. If you’re short on time, you can boil the cashews for 15 minutes instead.

2. Prepare the Pasta

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, rinse it with cold water, and set it aside.

3. Blend the Cheese Sauce

In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, 1 1/2 cups of water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, Dijon mustard, turmeric, and smoked paprika (if using). Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

4. Heat the Sauce

Transfer the blended mixture to a saucepan and heat over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan. As the sauce heats up, it will thicken. If it becomes too thick, add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce has reached a creamy consistency, add the shredded vegan cheddar cheese and stir until it’s fully melted and incorporated. Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan and mix well until the macaroni is fully coated with the cheese sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This vegan copycat mac and cheese is delicious on its own, but you can enhance its flavors and textures with a few additional touches.

1. Top with Breadcrumbs

For a crispy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with seasoned breadcrumbs, and bake in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

2. Add Veggies

Incorporate vegetables like steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Simply mix them into the mac and cheese before serving.

3. Spice it Up

For those who love a little heat, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give the dish a spicy kick.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

Switching to vegan mac and cheese not only satisfies your craving for comfort food but also offers various health benefits.

1. Cashews

Cashews are rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium and iron. They provide a creamy texture without the need for dairy.

2. Nutritional Yeast

Often used in vegan cooking for its cheesy flavor, nutritional yeast is packed with B vitamins, including B12, which is essential for vegans.

3. Turmeric

This vibrant spice is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can add a beautiful golden hue to your cheese sauce.

4. Vegan Cheese

Choosing vegan cheese ensures the dish is free from lactose and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthier option compared to traditional dairy cheese.

Why Choose Vegan Mac and Cheese?

Beyond satisfying your taste buds, opting for a vegan version of this classic dish aligns with a more sustainable and compassionate lifestyle.

1. Ethical Considerations

By choosing plant-based alternatives, you’re supporting a more humane industry that doesn’t exploit animals for food production.

2. Environmental Impact

Reducing or eliminating dairy from your diet helps lower your carbon footprint. The dairy industry is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, land degradation, and water pollution.

3. Health Benefits

A vegan diet can improve heart health, reduce the risk of certain cancers, and aid in maintaining a healthy weight.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan copycat mac and cheese at home is a rewarding experience that combines the joy of cooking with the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate a beloved dish that’s delicious, nutritious, and kind to all living beings. Try this recipe for your next meal and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness without the dairy!