Save This vegan bratwurst mac and cheese layers creamy, luscious cheese sauce with slices of hearty plant-based bratwurst for a nostalgic comfort meal you can feel good about. It is my go-to when I want melty, rich flavors without any dairy or meat—a crowd-pleaser that even my omnis friends ask for by name.
I still remember the first time my partner requested mac and cheese and I experimented with vegan bratwurst—now it is a must-make every fall and I love how it satisfies without any heaviness.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni or short pasta: Choose firm varieties that hold up well
- Raw cashews: The foundation of a creamy vegan sauce look for fresh cashews with no off odors
- Unsweetened plant-based milk: Soy or oat works best for richness choose unsweetened for balance
- Nutritional yeast: Brings bold cheesy flavor use fresh flakes for maximum zing
- Tapioca or cornstarch: Creates silky stretchy texture
- Lemon juice: Brightens and balances the sauce freshly squeezed is best
- Miso paste: Deepens umami buy white or yellow miso for milder flavor
- Dijon mustard: Adds savoriness and complexity classic Dijon gives a subtle punch
- Fresh garlic: A flavor backbone choose plump fresh cloves
- Turmeric: Gives golden color and mild earthiness
- Smoked paprika: Lends a smoky, savory spin go for high-quality smoked varieties
- Salt and black pepper: Use kosher salt and grind your pepper fresh
- Vegan bratwurst: Choose your favorite style go for firm sausages with robust seasoning
- Panko breadcrumbs: Optional for a crunchy topping always use crisp fresh crumbs
- Olive oil: Helps the topping brown evenly opt for extra virgin
- Fresh parsley: For brightness and color use flat leaf if you can find it
Instructions
- Prep the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and stir in the pasta Cook until just al dente following package timing this ensures it will not become mushy when mixed with sauce Drain well and set aside
- Brown the Bratwurst:
- While the pasta cooks heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat Add the sliced bratwurst and cook gently turning every minute until all sides are brown and crisp about five minutes Remove from the heat
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Add soaked drained cashews plant milk nutritional yeast tapioca starch lemon juice miso paste Dijon mustard garlic turmeric smoked paprika salt and ground pepper to a high speed blender Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy with no visible bits
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Transfer the blended sauce to a medium saucepan Set over medium heat and whisk constantly as it heats up After a few minutes bubbles should form and the sauce will thicken to a glossy stretchy consistency this usually takes five to seven minutes Keep whisking for a silky result
- Combine Pasta and Bratwurst:
- Fold drained pasta and the browned bratwurst slices into the thickened sauce Stir thoroughly so every piece is coated evenly Warm through for two or three minutes
- Optional Broiled Topping:
- If you like a crunchy finish preheat your oven broiler In a small bowl toss panko with olive oil Spread over your mac and cheese in an oven safe dish and broil for one to two minutes Watch closely to avoid burning Scatter with plenty of fresh parsley
- Serve Immediately:
- Dish out generous servings while hot for the perfect stretchy creamy bite every time
Save One rainy Sunday my niece insisted on stirring and declared it sunshine in a pot It stuck
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days For best texture reheat gently in a covered saucepan with a splash of plant milk or water Avoid freezing fully assembled mac to prevent the pasta from going mushy You can freeze just the sauce in a separate container for up to two months
Ingredient Substitutions
No cashews on hand Blanched slivered almonds make a good substitute For extra tang try a dash of apple cider vinegar in place of some lemon juice Gluten free pasta and bratwurst are an easy swap just watch your cook times
Serving Suggestions
A crisp green salad or steamed broccoli makes an ideal side dish Pair with vegan German style wheat beer or a light lager for a full Oktoberfest vibe Top with extra panko and bake in ramekins for elegant individual servings
Save For special occasions bake in a casserole and finish with heaps of parsley and crunchy breadcrumbs
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni or short pasta shapes like shells or rotini hold the creamy sauce well and provide an ideal texture.
- → Can I use gluten-free ingredients?
Yes, swap traditional pasta and bratwurst with certified gluten-free alternatives for a gluten-free main.
- → How do I make the cheese sauce creamier?
Blend soaked cashews thoroughly and use unsweetened plant-based milk for a silky, rich consistency.
- → What are good side pairings?
Simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables balance the richness of the dish nicely.
- → Can the dish be prepared ahead?
The pasta and sauce can be made in advance, but add the bratwurst and topping just before serving for best texture.
- → How can I add more spice?
Add a pinch of cayenne or substitute chili powder for smoked paprika to boost heat and complexity.
- → Which plant-based milk is recommended?
Soy or oat milk works best for flavor and richness, but any unsweetened plant-based milk can be used.
- → Is the dish nut-free?
No, cashews are used in the cheese sauce. For a nut-free version, use seeds like sunflower instead.