Creamy Avocado Mac and Cheese (Vegan) Recipe

If you have been searching for a dairy-free, nourishing comfort meal that feels indulgent and fresh all at once, this Creamy Avocado Mac and Cheese (Vegan) is about to become your new favorite. Combining the classic warmth and coziness of mac and cheese with the vibrant creaminess of ripe avocado, this dish delivers on both flavor and nutrition without any dairy. It’s smooth, luscious, and packed with wholesome ingredients that create a rich sauce you won’t believe is vegan—plus it comes together quickly for busy nights or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in the simplicity and vitality of its ingredients. Each element plays a key role in crafting that silky texture and bright flavor profile, with herbs adding freshness and nutritional yeast bringing in that cheesy, umami kick.

• 1 large ripe avocado (or 2 small ripe avocados): The star of the show, giving the sauce a creamy base without any dairy.
• Juice of 1 lemon (or 3 tbsp lemon juice): Adds brightness and balances the richness with a refreshing zing.
• 1 cup basil leaves (loosely packed): Infuses a fragrant herbal note that pairs perfectly with avocado.
• 1/4 cup cilantro: Brings a subtle citrus undertone and fresh complexity.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances savory depth with gentle sweetness.
• 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and smokiness to elevate the dish.
• 4-6 tbsp nutritional yeast: The vegan secret weapon for that unmistakable cheesy flavor.
• 1/2 cup almond or other non-dairy milk (to thin): Helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
• 1 tsp spirulina (optional for color): Gives a subtle green tint and extra nutrients.
• 10-12 oz. macaroni or elbow pasta (gluten-free optional): The classic pasta shape for ultimate comfort food vibes.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Adds pungent savoriness to the sauce base.
• 3 1/2 tbsp olive oil: Creates a silky sauté base that blends all flavors gently.
• 3 tbsp flour (or arrowroot flour for gluten-free): Thickens the sauce beautifully without clumps.
• 1 1/4 cup almond or other non-dairy milk: Smooths and enriches the sauce for perfect creaminess.

How to Make Creamy Avocado Mac and Cheese (Vegan)

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Avocado Sauce

Start by blending your ripe avocado with fresh lemon juice, basil, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, almond milk, and spirulina if using. This mixture creates the luscious, creamy base for your mac and cheese. Blend until silky smooth—this step sets the stage for that unbeatable vegan cheesiness.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While you’re letting your blender work its magic, bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook your macaroni according to the package directions. Once perfectly al dente, drain the pasta, rinse lightly, and return it to the pot so it’s ready to be coated in sauce.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, just a couple of minutes. Next, whisk in the flour carefully, making sure to blend it with the oil and garlic without creating lumps. Gradually pour in the almond milk, whisking continuously over medium-high heat; the sauce will thicken quickly. Once it’s luxuriously thick and smooth, remove it from the heat.

Step 4: Combine Avocado Sauce with the Base

Pour your bright, creamy avocado mixture into the warm sauce base and whisk everything together until you have a perfectly harmonious sauce. Taste it and adjust seasoning with extra salt or nutritional yeast if you want it cheesier. Finally, stir the sauce into your cooked pasta until every piece is gloriously coated.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Serve your Creamy Avocado Mac and Cheese (Vegan) right away for the best flavor and texture experience. The sauce is rich and creamy, clinging irresistibly to the pasta, giving you all that classic comfort without the dairy.

How to Serve Creamy Avocado Mac and Cheese (Vegan)

Garnishes

Top your mac and cheese with slices of fresh avocado for an extra creamy texture and beautiful presentation. You can also add broiled cherry tomatoes for a juicy burst of sweetness or a sprinkle of vegan parmesan for that familiar cheesy finish that complements the sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

This vibrant mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or simple steamed greens like kale or spinach. The freshness of the sides balances the rich sauce, making it a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your pasta in individual ramekins and sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch. Alternatively, transform leftovers into a baked casserole topped with vegan cheese and herbs for a crispy, gooey treat that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Creamy Avocado Mac and Cheese (Vegan) tastes great for up to 2 days stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Since avocado can oxidize, the flavor might mellow a bit, but reheating gently helps refresh it.

Freezing

Freezing mac and cheese with avocado can sometimes affect texture, so it’s best to consume it fresh. However, if you want to freeze, place it in a well-sealed container and consume within one month for best flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of non-dairy milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Stir frequently to keep the sauce creamy and smooth, just like when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for holding the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, including gluten-free options. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How ripe should the avocado be?

Choose an avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure for maximum creaminess. Overripe avocados might lead to a bitter taste, so avoid any that are too soft or have brown spots.

Is nutritional yeast necessary?

Yes, nutritional yeast is key to achieving that cheesy flavor in this vegan recipe. If you haven’t tried it before, it’s worth buying—it adds savory depth and richness that truly elevate the dish.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Definitely! You can substitute almond milk with a nut-free plant milk like oat or soy, and use a seed-based milk if allergies are a concern. The flavor might shift slightly but it will still be delicious.

What if I don’t have a high-speed blender?

No worries! A regular blender works fine, but you might need to pause and stir the mixture a few times to get it completely smooth. Alternatively, a food processor can also do the job well.

Final Thoughts

I truly cannot recommend this Creamy Avocado Mac and Cheese (Vegan) enough. It’s a dish that brings so much joy and comfort, redefining what vegan comfort food can be. Once you try it, the creamy richness combined with fresh herbs and bold flavors will have you reaching for this recipe again and again. Warm, nourishing, and utterly satisfying — go ahead and treat yourself to this deliciously green twist on a classic favorite!

Print