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: 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups macaroni pasta; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Creamy Cashew Broccoli Mac Cheese is a delicious twist on the classic mac and cheese, featuring a rich and creamy cashew sauce combined with tender broccoli florets.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T22:27:18.011Z

This Creamy Cashew Broccoli Mac Cheese is not just comfort food; it’s a wholesome meal packed with nutrients and flavor. The cashew base provides a creamy texture without dairy, making it perfect for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and rich texture that satisfies
Nutty flavor from cashews complements the broccoli
A nutritious and filling meal for any day of the week

      

A Nutritious Alternative

Creamy Cashew Broccoli Mac Cheese not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional mac and cheese. By using cashews as a base for the sauce, you introduce healthy fats and protein, making this dish not just comforting but also nourishing. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet without sacrificing flavor.

Broccoli, a star ingredient in this dish, is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. Adding this green vegetable not only elevates the nutritional value but also adds a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. It's a great way to sneak in some veggies for both kids and adults alike.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Creamy Cashew Broccoli Mac Cheese is an excellent option for meal prepping. Preparing a large batch on the weekend means you'll have delicious, homemade lunches ready to go throughout the week. Just portion it out into containers, and you can easily reheat it for a quick meal. The flavors only get better as they sit, making it an ideal dish to enjoy over several days.

Additionally, this recipe is versatile; you can swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like spinach, kale, or even roasted red peppers. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish according to what you have on hand or your personal preferences, making it not only convenient but also a fun way to experiment in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious dish:

Ingredients for Creamy Cashew Broccoli Mac Cheese

1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups macaroni pasta
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a creamy and delicious mac cheese:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to 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. Drain and set aside with the pasta.

Make the Cashew Sauce

In a blender, combine soaked cashews, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Combine Everything

In the pot, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, and cashew sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and heated through.

Serve

Drizzle with olive oil and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy mac cheese!

Enjoy this deliciously creamy dish!

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Creamy Cashew Broccoli Mac Cheese will last for about 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions. Just make sure to let the mac cheese cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. If you're looking to reduce carbohydrates, consider using a gluten-free pasta alternative, such as chickpea or lentil pasta, which can add extra protein and fiber to the dish.

For those who are nut-free, you can replace the cashews with sunflower seeds or a pre-made nut-free cheese alternative. This way, you can still enjoy the creamy texture without the allergens. Experimenting with different ingredients allows you to personalize this dish while keeping it deliciously satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes, you can use sunflower seeds or tahini instead of cashews for a nut-free version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the mac cheese in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ What can I serve with this mac cheese?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.