Creamy Cashew Broccoli Mac Cheese

Name: Creamy Cashew Broccoli Mac Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in water for at least 2 hours; 1 cup unsweetened almond milk; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1/4 cup nutritional yeast; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings

This delightful dish combines the creaminess of cashews with the freshness of broccoli to create a comforting and nutritious mac and cheese.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2025-12-17T01:10:18.014Z

Discover the perfect blend of flavors with our Creamy Cashew Broccoli Mac Cheese. This dish not only satisfies your cravings for comfort food but also provides a healthy twist with the addition of broccoli and cashew cream.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that rivals traditional mac and cheese
Nutritious broccoli adds a pop of color and health benefits
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
Dairy-free and vegan-friendly option for everyone to enjoy

      

The Benefits of Cashew Cream

Cashew cream is a versatile ingredient that offers a rich, buttery flavor, making it a perfect base for vegan sauces and dressings. When blended, soaked cashews create a smooth and creamy texture that can easily replace dairy in various recipes. This creamy consistency not only satisfies cravings but also provides a healthy alternative to traditional cheese sauces, allowing you to indulge without guilt.

Packed with nutrients, cashews are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. They can support heart health, improve bone density, and provide energy, making them an ideal choice for those looking to boost their diet with nutritious ingredients. Incorporating cashews into your meals, such as in this mac and cheese, is a delicious way to enhance your overall wellness.

Broccoli: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Broccoli is not just a vibrant addition to this dish; it's also loaded with health benefits. This cruciferous vegetable is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, which can help protect the body from various diseases. Regular consumption of broccoli can support immune function, promote healthy digestion, and may even have cancer-fighting properties.

In this recipe, broccoli adds a beautiful green hue and a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy cashew sauce perfectly. Not only does it enhance the flavor profile, but it also increases the overall nutritional value of your meal, making this dish both delicious and good for you.

A Quick and Easy Dinner Solution

One of the best aspects of this Creamy Cashew Broccoli Mac Cheese is its simplicity. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The entire process can be completed in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for families and individuals alike.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding other vegetables like spinach or peas, or even protein sources like chickpeas or tofu for a more filling meal. Its adaptability makes it a fantastic option for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup raw cashews, soaked in water for at least 2 hours
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 cups broccoli florets
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to soak the cashews beforehand for a smoother texture in the sauce.

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Broccoli

In the same pot, add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender. Remove and set aside with the macaroni.

Make the Cashew Sauce

In a blender, combine the soaked cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Combine Everything

Return the macaroni and broccoli to the pot. Pour the cashew sauce over the top and stir well to combine. Heat gently over medium heat until warmed through.

Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, delicious mac cheese!

Tips for Perfecting Your Mac and Cheese

To achieve the best texture for your cashew sauce, ensure that your cashews are adequately soaked. Soaking them for at least two hours will soften them, allowing for a smoother blend. If you're short on time, you can soak them in hot water for about 30 minutes instead.

Adjust the thickness of your sauce to your liking by varying the amount of almond milk you add. For a creamier sauce, use less milk; for a thinner consistency, add more. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to suit your preferences perfectly.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of almond milk to restore the creamy consistency, as the sauce may thicken when cooled.

Reheating can be done in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Stir gently to ensure the sauce warms evenly without becoming too thick. This makes it easy to enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week!

Serving Suggestions

For an extra burst of flavor, consider topping your mac and cheese with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's overall taste profile.

Pair this creamy mac and cheese with a simple side salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal. The freshness of the salad will complement the richness of the dish, creating a satisfying dining experience that everyone will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular elbow macaroni.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for nutritional yeast?

You can omit it or use grated vegan cheese for a similar flavor.