There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm bowl of mac and cheese, but you might be surprised to learn that you can satisfy those creamy cravings without dairy! I stumbled upon this Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese recipe during a busy week when takeout just wasn’t cutting it. I was looking for a dish that was not only quick but also packed with flavor and nutrients, and this one delivered on all fronts.
The sweet potatoes lend a natural sweetness, while the blend of cashews and spices creates a rich, creamy sauce that will have your family asking for seconds. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a curious foodie, or simply someone bored with traditional fast food, this versatile dish is sure to delight everyone at the table. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just 35 minutes—perfect for a weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on comfort. So, let’s dive into this delicious and healthy take on a classic favorite!
Why is Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese amazing?
Comforting, creamy goodness: This dish offers a delightful twist on classic mac and cheese without any dairy.
Nutrient-packed flavor: Sweet potatoes and cashews create a rich, satisfying sauce that’s full of vitamins and minerals.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-pleaser: Both vegans and non-vegans will rave about it, making it ideal for gatherings.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a main meal or a hearty side—perfect for any occasion!
Don’t forget to check out my guide on vegan cooking tips for more delicious recipes like this!
Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese Ingredients
• Get ready to create a luscious, creamy dish that will make your heart sing!
For the Pasta
- 16 ounces uncooked pasta – Choose your favorite shape; shells or elbows work wonderfully for holding the creamy sauce!
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 cups peeled and cubed sweet potato – This natural sweetness adds a lovely flavor and vibrant color to your Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese.
- 1 cup raw cashews – Soaking them helps achieve that silky texture in the sauce; you won’t even miss the dairy!
- 2 cups water – This creates the perfect consistency for your cheese sauce; adjust according to your desired thickness.
- 1 medium yellow or white onion – Enhances the sauce with a savory base; don’t skip the sautéing for deep flavor!
- 3 cloves garlic – Mince them finely to release their fragrant oils; they add a comforting aroma to the dish!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Use it for sautéing the onion and garlic; it enhances the overall richness of the sauce.
For Seasoning and Flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for balancing flavors; you can adjust based on your personal preference.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – This adds a slight kick; feel free to add more if you love spice!
- ¼ teaspoon dijon mustard – Gives a tangy depth to the sauce that elevates the overall taste profile.
- ⅓ cup nutritional yeast – The secret ingredient that brings a cheesy flavor, perfect for vegan dishes!
- ½ teaspoon paprika – Adds a beautiful color and a warm, smoky taste without being overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce/tamari – A splash of umami goodness; it elevates the overall savory notes of your cheese sauce.
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar – This brightens the flavors and adds a hint of acidity that balances the creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter – Stir this in at the end for an extra velvety finish!
Prepare to enjoy your cooking adventure as you blend these ingredients into a dish that’s not only delicious but also deeply satisfying!
How to Make Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese
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Soak the cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover them with boiling water. Let them soak for 20-30 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients for a creamy base.
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Chop the sweet potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potato, measuring out about 2 cups. These will add both sweetness and a beautiful color to your dish.
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes usually.
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Boil the sweet potatoes: In another pot, add the cubed sweet potatoes and cover them with water. Boil for about 15 minutes or until they are fork-tender and ready to blend into the sauce.
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Sauté the aromatics: Roughly chop the onion and mince the garlic. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté them for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
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Blend for creaminess: Drain the softened cashews and add them to a high-speed blender with 2 cups of water. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, which should take about 1 minute.
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Combine ingredients: Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture along with the drained sweet potatoes to the blender. This will enhance your creamy cheese sauce with a savory depth.
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Season the sauce: Add the remaining ingredients—salt, black pepper, dijon mustard, nutritional yeast, paprika, soy sauce/tamari, apple cider vinegar, and vegan butter—into the blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adjusting the salt to taste.
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Mix with pasta: Pour the luscious cheese sauce over the cooked pasta in a large bowl. Stir gently to combine and coat the pasta evenly with the creamy goodness.
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Garnish and enjoy: Top your Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and chopped chives for an added touch. Serve warm and share with loved ones!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast on top for an extra cheesy flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese
- Soak Cashews Properly: Ensure your cashews soak long enough for creamy texture; aim for 20-30 minutes so blending is effortless.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skimp on sautéing the onion and garlic; this step adds a rich, deep flavor to your Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese.
- Adjust Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water gradually while blending until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season Generously: Taste your sauce before mixing it with pasta; adjusting salt and spices can elevate the flavors to perfection.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like chives not only enhances aesthetics but also adds flavor bursts with every bite!
Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese Variations
Feel free to get creative and give this recipe your own personal touch!
- Gluten-Free: Swap the pasta for gluten-free varieties like chickpea or lentil-based pasta for a hearty option.
- Cheesy Twist: Try mixing in a little vegan cream cheese along with the nutritional yeast for an extra creamy and cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a delightful spicy surprise that warms up every bite!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be blended into the sauce for a burst of vibrant flavor that brightens the dish.
- Added Protein: Stir in some cooked lentils or chickpeas after combining with the sauce; this adds protein and makes it even more filling.
- Roasted Veggies: Toss in roasted broccoli or cauliflower for extra texture and nutrients; it’s a lovely way to enhance the dish’s heartiness.
- Nut-Free: Substitute cashews with sunflower seeds to craft a nut-free creamy sauce; soak them just like cashews for the best result.
- Zesty Variance: Mix in a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavors; it gives a lovely zing to the creamy sauce!
Let your taste buds lead the way and enjoy every delicious variation!
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese
Fridge: Store your Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore creaminess.
Freezer: This dish freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to the sauce to regain its creamy texture and heat thoroughly on the stovetop for the best results.
Wrapping: If you’ve made a big batch, double wrap or use an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese are a fantastic option for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the pasta up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow steps 1-8, then let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. Keep the pasta in a separate container to prevent it from getting soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the sauce gently on the stove while adding a splash of water to regain that creamy consistency, and mix it with the warmed pasta. This method ensures your meal retains its delicious flavor and texture, giving you a comforting dish with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese?
Looking to create a well-rounded meal that compliments the creamy, comforting flavors of your mac and cheese?
- Garlic Bread: A crusty loaf brushed with garlic-infused olive oil brings crunch and fragrant aroma, perfect for scooping up creamy goodness.
- Green Salad: A light, tangy salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy edges and caramelized flavor beautifully enhance the sweetness of the sweet potatoes while adding delightful texture.
- Steamed Broccoli: The bright green florets not only add color but also provide a satisfying crunch that balances the creaminess of your dish.
- Savory Butternut Squash Soup: A smooth, spiced soup brings a cozy warmth to the meal, mirroring the comfort of the mac and cheese with a hint of sweetness.
- Sparkling Lemonade: This bubbly drink with a hint of citrus zest is refreshingly tart, cutting through the creaminess and leaving you feeling invigorated.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: A rich dessert made with avocado and cocoa offers a velvety finish that surprises with its deep chocolate flavor without being overly sweet.
- Chilled White Wine: A light, crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs perfectly, enhancing the savory notes of your savory dish.
- Grilled Vegetable Platter: Colorful veggies, lightly charred, provide freshness and vibrant flavors that contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce of your Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese.
Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sweet potatoes?
When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and free from dark spots or blemishes. Avoid any that feel soft or have cracks, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh sweet potatoes should have smooth, taut skins with a vibrant color.
How long can I store Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese?
You can store your Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to restore its creaminess, as it tends to thicken when refrigerated.
Can I freeze Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When ready to eat, just add a bit of water or vegetable broth while reheating to bring back the original creamy texture.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, you’re in luck! Simply add a little warm water or vegetable broth while blending until you achieve your desired consistency. I often start with a tablespoon at a time to avoid making it too runny.
Is this Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese safe for pets?
While sweet potatoes and cashews are generally safe for dogs in moderation, be cautious with garlic and onions, as they can be toxic to pets. Always consult your veterinarian before sharing human food with your furry friends.
What can I use as an alternative for cashews?
If you’re allergic to cashews or prefer a different base, try soaked sunflower seeds or hemp seeds instead. They will give a slightly different flavor, but they can also create a creamy base for your sauce. Just make sure to blend until very smooth for the best results!
Creamy Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover them with boiling water. Let them soak for 20-30 minutes.
- Chop the sweet potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potato, measuring out about 2 cups.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes.
- Boil the sweet potatoes: In another pot, add cubed sweet potatoes and cover with water. Boil until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for about 5 minutes.
- Blend for creaminess: Drain the softened cashews, add to a blender with 2 cups of water, and blend until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture along with the drained sweet potatoes to the blender.
- Season the sauce: Add salt, black pepper, dijon mustard, nutritional yeast, paprika, soy sauce/tamari, apple cider vinegar, and vegan butter, then blend until smooth.
- Mix with pasta: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta in a bowl and stir to combine.
- Garnish and enjoy: Top with red pepper flakes and chopped chives for an added touch. Serve warm.