The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that brings joy to so many. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious! Today, I want to share with you a special version called Marry Me Mac & Cheese. This dish has a delightful blend of flavors and is sure to impress everyone at your dinner table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Marry Me Mac & Cheese is not just your ordinary mac and cheese; it’s quick and easy to make while being packed with flavor. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests at a gathering, this recipe uses simple ingredients yet delivers a rich and creamy texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, making it great for those with dietary preferences!
How to Make Marry Me Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
- 10 oz. Dried Elbow Macaroni*
- 2 Tbsp Vegan Butter ((or Olive Oil))
- 4 – 5 cloves Garlic ((minced))
- 1 Tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp Red Chili Flakes or Calabrian Chiles ((for some heat))
- 2 cups Vegan Chicken Broth ((or Veggie Broth))
- 1/2 – 3/4 cup Cashew Cream** ((or Tofu Cream))
- 2 – 3 tsp Dijon Mustard
- 1/2 cup Vegan Parmesan ((or 2 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast))
- 1/3 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- 2 cups Vegan Cheddar Shreds
- 2 Tbsp Tapioca Starch ((optional for thickening))
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh Parsley or Basil for garnish ((chopped))
Directions
- First, prepare your Cashew Cream or Tofu Cream if you haven’t already.
- Next, boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a high-walled skillet or saucier pan over medium-low heat. Add vegan butter or olive oil and allow it to melt.
- Add the minced garlic, red chili flakes or Calabrian chiles, and Italian seasoning to the pan. Stir them together and cook for about 1 minute—be careful not to burn the garlic or herbs.
- Pour in the vegan chicken broth or veggie broth and then add the cashew or tofu cream, starting with 1/2 cup. As it heats, it will thicken, so feel free to add more later if needed.
- Whisk in the Dijon mustard until well combined. Raise the heat to medium and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and vegan parmesan (or nutritional yeast), mixing well.
- Gradually add the vegan cheddar shreds (and optional tapioca starch if using) while stirring until the cheese is melted and combined. Keep the sauce warm on low heat until the pasta is ready.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything together, adding a splash of pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. This will help loosen it up and blend the flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, then sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top before serving. Dig in!
How to Serve Marry Me Mac & Cheese
This hearty dish makes for a fantastic main course. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh herbs, alongside a crisp salad or roasted veggies to add some crunch and color to your meal. It’s sure to be a hit whether you’re enjoying a family dinner or hosting friends!
How to Store Marry Me Mac & Cheese
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it down before sealing the container. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Marry Me Mac & Cheese
- For an extra creamy sauce, feel free to add additional cashew cream or adjust the amount of vegan cheddar shreds.
- If you like it spicy, add more red chili flakes or even hot sauce to the sauce.
- Experiment with different types of pasta for a fun twist. Shells, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta work well!
FAQs
Can I use regular cheese instead of vegan cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not following a vegan diet, you can substitute vegan cheddar shreds with regular cheddar for a creamier taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free elbow macaroni, and make sure that all the other ingredients are gluten-free, including the broth and seasonings.
How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce thickens during storage, add a splash of vegetable broth or plant-based milk while reheating to restore creaminess.
Marry Me Mac & Cheese
A creamy and cheesy vegan mac and cheese that's quick and easy to make, perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests.
Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Prepare your Cashew Cream or Tofu Cream if you haven’t already.
- Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Cooking
- Heat a high-walled skillet or saucier pan over medium-low heat. Add vegan butter or olive oil and allow it to melt.
- Add the minced garlic, red chili flakes or Calabrian chiles, and Italian seasoning to the pan. Stir and cook for about 1 minute, being careful not to burn.
- Pour in the vegan chicken broth or veggie broth and then add the cashew or tofu cream, starting with 1/2 cup. Heat until it thickens, adding more if needed.
- Whisk in the Dijon mustard until well combined. Raise the heat to medium and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and vegan parmesan (or nutritional yeast), mixing well.
- Gradually add the vegan cheddar shreds (and optional tapioca starch if using) while stirring until melted. Keep the sauce warm on low.
Combining
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add to the skillet with the sauce. Stir together, adding a splash of pasta water if too thick.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, then sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add more cashew cream for a creamier sauce and adjust spices to taste.
