Step 1 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
In a large bowl, combine the cashews with enough water to cover them completely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow to soak at room temperature for at least 2 hours, and preferably 8 hours.
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Step 2 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
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Step 3 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
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Step 4 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the salt.
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Step 5 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Drain the cashew nuts from the soaking water and transfer them to the bowl of a food processor or high-power blender. Add the sauerkraut, cashew milk, nutritional yeast, olive oil, flour, garlic powder, paprika, mustard powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
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Step 6 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Process or blend the mixture on high speed until completely smooth and the consistency of thick cream, 5-6 minutes.
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Step 7 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, 9-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a large colander, and rinse thoroughly with cold water. Return the drained pasta to the pot.
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Step 8 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Once the sauce is smooth, add it to the drained pasta in the pot. Stir to combine.
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Step 9 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Pour the pasta into the prepared baking dish.
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Step 10 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Place the crackers in a plastic bag and crush them to the consistency of coarse sand using a rolling pin. Transfer the cracker crumbs to a large bowl.
PRO TIP You can also use a food processor or blender and pulse until adequately crushed.
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Step 11 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Place the buttery spread in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high until melted, about 30 seconds. Pour the melted butter over the cracker crumbs. Mix with a fork until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
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Step 12 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Sprinkle the cracker crumbs in an even layer over the pasta.
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Step 13 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Bake the mac and cheese on middle rack of oven until edges are bubbling and the topping is slightly browned, 22-25 minutes.
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Step 14 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Check to see that mac and cheese is done. Remove from oven or add time as needed.
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Step 15 of 15
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Allow macaroni and cheese to rest for 15-20 minutes before serving.