Looking for a comforting, creamy, flavor-packed meal that’s both plant-based and elevated? Let me introduce you to Vegan Truffle Mac and Cheese with Broccoli Bits—a dish that’s indulgent enough for a dinner party but simple enough to become one of your go-to weeknight staples. This isn't just your average vegan mac n cheese recipe. It’s earthy, nutty, and laced with truffle oil for that gourmet touch, while still being nourishing and family-friendly. Whether you're aiming for more vegan dinner recipes, looking for cheap dinners for a family, or just craving a comforting veggie mac and cheese, this dish ticks all the boxes.
Vegan Truffle Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 generous portions
High-speed blender Essential for getting that sauce ultra-creamy. A Vitamix or Nutribullet works great.
Large pot For boiling pasta and blanching broccoli.
Saute pan or small skillet To lightly toast broccoli or finish breadcrumbs.
Baking dish (optional) If you're making this a vegan baked mac and cheese.
Colander For draining pasta and rinsing broccoli.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula To stir everything together without scratching your pans.
For the Pasta
- 12 oz elbow macaroni use gluten-free if you want to make a gf mac and cheese
- 1 tbsp salt for the pasta water
For the Vegan Cheese Sauce
- 1 ½ cups raw cashews soaked for 4 hours or boiled for 10 minutes
- 1 ¼ cups unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for nut-free
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp turmeric for color
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp white truffle oil plus extra for drizzling
For the Broccoli Bits
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Topping (if baking)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs use gluten-free if needed
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted vegan butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp parsley flakes
Step 1: 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. If you're making gf mac and cheese, be extra careful not to overcook the pasta—it can get mushy quickly.
Step 2: Prep the Broccoli
In the same pot or a separate pan, bring water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop cooking. For extra flavor, you can sauté them in a bit of olive oil until just slightly crispy. This adds texture and enhances the veggie mac and cheese vibe.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Drain the soaked cashews and place them in a high-speed blender along with almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, turmeric, paprika, and truffle oil. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You’re aiming for rich, tangy, and aromatic.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the drained pasta to the pot and pour in the vegan cheese sauce. Stir gently over medium heat until everything is warmed through and creamy. Fold in the broccoli florets.
Step 5 (Optional): Bake It
If you're leaning more towards vegan thanksgiving recipes or want that crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a lightly greased baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil, garlic powder, and parsley flakes, then sprinkle over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
Step 6: Drizzle & Serve
Before serving, drizzle with a touch more white truffle oil for that bold finish. It makes the dish feel gourmet without much effort.
Pairings
This vegan mac n cheese is versatile and pairs beautifully with several side dishes and drinks:
Side Dish Ideas
- Crispy kale chips: Adds crunch and an earthy balance.
- Roasted garlic Brussels sprouts: A hit of bitterness that balances the richness of the mac.
- Simple garden salad: Keeps things light and fresh.
- Vegan chili: For a hearty combo or even a hybrid vegan chili mac.
Beverage Pairings
- Sparkling water with lemon: Refreshing and cuts through the richness.
- Chilled white wine: Something like a Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with truffle and cheese.
- Iced herbal tea: Mint or chamomile cools and cleanses the palate.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes! Shells, penne, or even rotini work great. For a mac n cheese recipe that’s kid-friendly and fun, elbow macaroni is classic. Gluten-free versions work well too if you want a gf mac and cheese option.
2. What’s the best substitute if I can’t find white truffle oil?
You can use black truffle oil, though the flavor is stronger and earthier. If truffle isn’t your thing, just omit it—the sauce is still flavorful and delicious on its own.
3. Can I make this nut-free?
Absolutely. Use sunflower seeds or silken tofu instead of cashews, and opt for oat or soy milk. This will still give you a lactose free mac and cheese that’s creamy and satisfying.
4. Can I make this in advance?
Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of plant milk to restore creaminess. If you're doing the baked version, reheat it in the oven for best texture.
5. Is this a good recipe for holidays or gatherings?
Definitely. This vegan mac and cheese fits right in with other vegan thanksgiving recipes and tasty vegetarian recipes. The truffle flavor gives it a festive twist that makes it feel special.
