Introduction
Are you craving a comforting and creamy mac and cheese but want to keep it plant-based? This Vegan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is the perfect solution! With its velvety texture and cheesy flavour, this dish is made with wholesome ingredients and is entirely dairy-free. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free comfort food for any day of the week.
Ingredients for Vegan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
For the Sauce:
1 medium butternut squash (peeled, deseeded, and cubed)
1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat, or cashew milk)
1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4-6 hours or boiled for 15 minutes)
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
400g (14 oz) macaroni or any pasta of choice (gluten-free if needed)
Optional Toppings:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Vegan parmesan cheese
Toasted breadcrumbs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Peel the squash, remove the seeds, and cut it into small cubes.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the butternut squash cubes. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until fork-tender.
Learn more about the health benefits of butternut squash.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In the same pot, bring fresh water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Step 3: Blend the Sauce
In a blender, combine the cooked butternut squash, soaked cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
Find out why nutritional yeast is a vegan staple.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve hot with your favourite toppings like vegan parmesan or toasted breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthy Ingredients: Butternut squash adds natural sweetness, creaminess, and nutrients like vitamin A and fibre.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
Kid-Friendly: A delicious way to sneak in veggies.
Customisable: Use gluten-free pasta or add your favourite toppings.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes! Replace cashews with sunflower seeds or silken tofu for a creamy consistency.
2. Can I freeze the sauce?
Absolutely. Store the sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat and adjust consistency with a splash of plant-based milk.
3. What other veggies can I add?
Feel free to mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for extra greens.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Simply use gluten-free pasta.
5. What if I don’t have nutritional yeast?
Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavour. If unavailable, try substituting with a small amount of miso paste or omit it altogether.
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