Easy Veggie-full Dairy-free Gluten-free Vegan Mac and Cheese

Healthy comfort food can be tough to find nowadays, but this gluten-free vegan mac and cheese recipe is exactly that. It’s a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional boxed mac and cheese that works for just about any special diet.

Brimming with natural goodness, this recipe features hearty carrots and smooth Yukon potatoes that meld seamlessly with coconut milk and a splash of olive oil for creaminess. I’ve also included time-saving tips to help you get this on the table fast on busy weeknights.

The secret to that yummy cheesy flavor? Nutritional yeast and a hint of mustard, all brought together with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and turmeric for that perfect golden hue. A splash of lemon juice adds a zesty kick, while salt and black pepper bring everything together.

If you’re vegan, on a gluten-free diet, or just looking to add more veggies to your diet, this mac n cheese recipe is a must-add to your weekly menu. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and oh-so-delicious! You won’t miss the dairy or gluten one bit! 

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese Recipe

There are plenty of reasons you’ll want this meal in your rotation.

• No oven required—this recipe keeps things simple and stovetop-only.
• Nut-free sauce—making it allergy-friendly and budget-conscious.
• Packed with vegetables—featuring carrots and root vegetables like Yukon potatoes for added nutrition.
• Deliciously satisfying, guaranteeing a creamy, cheesy flavor you’ll crave even though it’s dairy-free!
• Nutritional powerhouse, utilizing nutritional yeast for a boost of B vitamins.
• Perfect for anyone on a gluten-free or vegan diet, meeting multiple dietary needs with one delicious dish.
• Ideal for meal prep, as it stores and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

Here’s the list of ingredients. Check out the recipe notes for more details, and the recipe card for all the measurements.

Directions

Here’s how to whip up our creamy, dreamy vegan cheese sauce for the best vegan mac and cheese. Scroll to the recipe card for the complete list of instructions.

Heat water in a pot.

Peel carrots and potatoes, then chop into 1/2-inch cubes.

Boil until tender.

Drain then scoop softened veggies into a blender. Add coconut milk, smoked paprika, turmeric, olive oil, nutritional yeast, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Blend until smooth.

Optional: If your sauce is too thick, add some more dairy-free milk.

Fill a medium-sized pot with water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook ’til tender. Alternatively, use my tips to cook pasta fast for quicker results.

Related: How to Save Time and Money Cooking Pasta

Toss pasta into a large saucepan or bowl and add the sauce. Stir over low heat.

Optional: Top with flaked chili pepper or vegan parmesan if desired.

Recipe Tips

• I always use gluten-free pasta that holds up well during cooking. I recommend using a shape like elbows or shells to catch all that creamy sauce. Whatever pasta you use, make sure it’s cooked al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
• Since gluten-free pasta tends to absorb more sauce, make a little extra cheese sauce. It’s better to have too much sauce than too little—nobody likes dry mac and cheese!

Recipes Notes and Substitutions

Here are some handy substitutions and variations.

• For a Mac and Cheese with Crust: transfer your mac and cheese to a casserole dish, sprinkle some more dairy-free cheese on top, and bake it until it’s bubbly and golden.
• Use Any Potato: This recipe works well with any type of potato, though different varieties may slightly alter the color and texture of your sauce.
• Veggie Swaps 
  • Consider substituting butternut squash for the carrots for a sweet twist.
  • Mix in roasted vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or Brussels sprouts for added texture and nutrition.
  • Swap the potatoes with sweet potatoes or parsnips for a different sweet and earthy note.
• Optional Add-Ins: Try garlic powder, onion powder, taco seasoning, chili powder, or quesadilla seasoning. Finely chopped veggies like onions, tomatoes, or peppers add texture and nutrition. For a fun twist, mix in vegetable powders for a colorful and nutritious boost.
• For Non-Vegans: If you’re dairy-free but not strictly vegan, adding some ground beef or thinly sliced sausage makes this dish even heartier.
• Cheese Sauce Variations: Experiment with different types of vegan cheese shreds for various flavors and textures. Daiya cheese, vegan cheddar, or even nacho cheese offer new tastes.
• Creamier Texture: Blend melted vegan butter or dairy-free cream cheese into your sauce before mixing it with the pasta.
• Protein Boost: Add plant-based proteins like tempeh, tofu, or seitan to turn this side dish into a hearty main course. Crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a rich depth of flavor for those who aren’t strictly vegan.
• Add Something Extra: Stir in some truffle oil or sprinkle truffle salt over the top before serving for a luxurious touch. Garnish with vegan parmesan and fresh herbs like basil or chives to brighten up the dish.
• Go International: Add a Mediterranean twist by adding sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and artichokes. For a Mexican-inspired version, mix in jalapeños, chili powder, and vegan taco meat and top with avocado slices and cilantro.
• Keto Option: Substitute a keto pasta or cauliflower florets for a low-carb dish.

How to Store and Reheat

You can store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to reheat it, warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a little splash of dairy-free milk or water to make the sauce creamy again.

If you want to keep leftovers longer, pack them in a freezer-safe container and freeze them for up to 2 months. Make sure they’re completely cool before packing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?

If you don’t have nutritional yeast or prefer not to use it, you can try a few tablespoons of vegan cheese shreds or a dash of miso paste for umami flavor. However, nutritional yeast provides a unique cheesy flavor that’s hard to replicate exactly with other ingredients.

What’s the best way to get a smooth cheese sauce? 

For the smoothest vegan cheese sauce, cook your vegetables, like potatoes and carrots, until they’re very tender before blending. Use a high-speed blender to puree the ingredients, ensuring everything is perfectly smooth.

If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add more dairy-free milk while blending until you reach the desired creamy consistency.

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make this vegan mac and cheese ahead of time which makes it great for meal prep! Prepare the dish as usual, then let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 5 days.

When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove, adding a little dairy-free milk or water to help bring back the sauce’s creamy texture.

More Easy Healthy Pasta Dishes

• Gluten-free Chili Mac (dairy-free & keto options) – a quick and healthy dinner the whole family will love.
• Easy and Oh So Creamy Vegan Pumpkin Pasta (gluten-free) – a yummy autumn meal.
• Homemade Healthy Hamburger Helper – easy one-pot meal yet so satisfying!