Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese: Plant-Based Comfort

A good vegan mac and cheese leans on blended cashews or silken tofu, nutritional yeast, and a touch of mustard or miso for depth. Cook pasta just shy of soft, then finish it in the sauce so starch helps the texture cling.

Roasted garlic, smoked paprika, and a squeeze of lemon keep the sauce bright instead of chalky. For weeknights, soak cashews in hot water for 15 minutes instead of overnight.

Serve with greens or roasted broccoli to balance the richness — comfort food does not have to be a one-note bowl.