Mac & Cheese is voted one of America’s top favorite foods. Study after study showed it within the top 10! Is it because it goes so well with burgers & hot dogs – more of America’s favorite foods? Or is it America’s obsession with cheese? Whatever the reason, it was my desire to make a healthier version of it since it is loved by so many. Once you try this Vegan version of Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese, you’ll never crave the cheesy version again. Each creamy bite is packed with flavor and the extra pow of nutritional benefits from the butternut squash and kale.
Not sure how to cut up a butternut squash, then check out my post on how to select, cut and roast butternut squash.
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Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Vegan, Side
- Method: Roast
- Cuisine: American
Description
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a creamy & delicious vegan version of Mac & Cheese. It is loaded with extra healthy ingredients including nutritional yeast and kale!
Ingredients
1 pound pasta, cooked
1 medium butternut squash, peeled & cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves
¼ cup tahini
1 cup vegetable broth or oat milk
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
2 cups chopped fresh kale (put aside 2 tablespoons and chop fine for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven 375°.
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil and salt. Spread butternut squash on a parchment lined baking sheet, and bake for approximately 30 minutes, shifting around halfway through.
- While roasting, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a small fry pan and add chopped onion. When softened, add the garlic and cook 2 – 3 more minutes. Add the kale and cook until wilted.
- Combine the butternut squash and onion & kale mix to a food processor. Add tahini, broth or plant-based milk and blend until smooth.
- After straining the pasta, mix all the ingredients together in the same pot and stir until well blended. Heat and add additional salt & pepper if needed.
- Top with 2 tablespoons freshly chopped kale.
Notes
- Equipment needed: baking sheet, food processor
- Pasta: I used Cavatelli Pasta but any shape/type will do
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