Who says vegans can’t have Mac n’ Cheese on Thanksgiving? The butternut squash gives this dish the extra flavor, creaminess and the touch of Fall. Adding crispy sage on top gives this dish a little sophistication.
I have teamed up with my friends and vegan chefs Yvonne Ardestani and Jasmine Briones to bring you a full vegan Thanksgiving menu filled with healthy, better-for-you dishes that are simple. delicious, mostly gluten-free and most importantly cruelty-free!
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked butternut squash, cubed
1- 16 oz. gluten free penne pasta
2 cups almond milk
1/4 cup full fat coconut milk
3 tbsp nutritional yeast
1 tbsp garlic powder
2 tbsp arrowroot flour
salt and pepper, to taste
1-2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (can sub rosemary)
2 pieces gluten free bread, toasted
Crispy Sage:
4-5 Sage Leaves
Sunflower Oil
In a pan, heat oil on medium-high heat and fry sage for a few seconds until crisp.
Steps:
1.) Prepare and cook pasta until al dente. Set aside
2.) In a high speed blender or food processor, blend butternut squash, almond milk, nutritional yeast, salt and pepper, garlic powder and arrowroot flour until creamy. (add more almond milk if it’s too thick)
3.) In a medium saucepan, heat butternut squash mixture and simmer until mixture thickens. Add thyme and stir. Set aside.
4.) Transfer cooked pasta to baking dish, pour cooked butternut squash mixture and stir until well combined. Bake for 20 minutes.
5.) Meanwhile, prepare breadcrumbs: Finely grind breadcrumbs with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
6.) Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake mac n’ cheese for additional 10-15 minutes until lightly brown on top. Top with crispy sage on top when ready to serve.
*This dish is best made right before eating or the dish will thicken very quickly. If so reheat with more almond milk.
