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Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe

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3.9 from 14 reviews

This Southern Mac and Cheese recipe is a creamy, comforting vegan twist on the classic dish, featuring a rich blend of vegan cream cheese, plant milk, and vegan Colby Jack shreds combined with perfectly cooked macaroni. It’s seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and smoked paprika to add depth of flavor and baked until bubbly and golden on top—ideal for a cozy meal or gathering.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 4 cups macaroni, cooked and leftover (use gluten-free if needed)

Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese Sauce

  • 8 oz vegan cream cheese
  • 1 cup plant-based milk (oat milk recommended)
  • 10 oz vegan Colby Jack shreds (reserve 1 cup for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dairy-Free Cheese Sauce: Heat the plant-based milk in a casserole dish that can go on the stove or in a saucepan over low heat. Add the vegan cream cheese and 9 oz of vegan Colby Jack shreds (reserve 1 cup for topping). Stir patiently over low heat until everything melts together into a creamy, silky sauce.
  2. Season the Sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Continue cooking on low heat, stirring frequently to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
  3. Combine with Macaroni: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated and evenly combined.
  4. Transfer for Baking: If you prepared the sauce in a saucepan, transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of vegan Colby Jack shreds evenly over the top.
  5. Bake the Mac and Cheese: Preheat the oven to 380°F (193°C). Bake the dish for 20 minutes until the top is melted and slightly golden.
  6. Cool Before Serving: Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time improves the texture and flavor, making the dish even more delicious.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free macaroni if you need a gluten-free version.
  • Cooking slowly on low heat when melting the vegan cheeses ensures a creamy texture without separating.
  • Letting the dish cool before serving improves consistency and flavor.
  • This dish is fully vegan and dairy-free, making it suitable for plant-based diets.

Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/southern-mac-and-cheese-recipe/