Vegan mac and cheese

Dinner

Item Rating: 70/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 300 calories, 8.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 45.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)

Calories		352.9
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		11.8 g	15%
	Saturated Fat	1.2 g	6%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		0 mg	0%
Sodium		705.9 mg	30%
Total Carbohydrates		52.9 g	19%
	Dietary Fiber	3.5 g	12%
	Sugars	2.4 g
protein		9.4 g	18%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		58.8 mg	4%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
Potassium		235.3 mg	5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 106 cal (29.9%)

Protein: 37 cal (10.6%)

Carbs: 211 cal (59.5%)

About Vegan mac and cheese

Vegan mac and cheese is a plant-based adaptation of the classic comfort dish originating from Western cuisine. This version typically replaces cheese with nutritional yeast, blended cashews, or plant-based alternatives, and uses non-dairy milk instead of traditional milk. Recipes may include ingredients such as sweet potatoes, carrots, or cauliflower to create the creamy texture and flavor profile. Vegan mac and cheese is often lower in saturated fats compared to its dairy-based counterpart and is cholesterol-free. It provides essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins A and C from vegetables, and protein when enriched with nuts or legumes. This dish aligns with the growing interest in plant-based, environmentally-conscious eating while catering to various dietary restrictions and preferences.

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamin B12 when fortified nutritional yeast is used, supporting energy and red blood cell production.
• Provides fiber from added vegetables like sweet potatoes or cauliflower, promoting healthy digestion.
• Contains plant-based protein from nuts or seeds such as cashews, aiding in muscle repair and growth.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains nuts (if cashews are used), soy (if soy milk or soy-based cheese is used)

Suitable for: Vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free diets

Not suitable for: Nut-free diets (if nuts are included), soy-free diets (if soy products are included)

Selection and Storage

Store vegan mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of plant-based milk to restore creaminess.

Common Questions About Vegan mac and cheese Nutrition

What is the nutritional content of vegan mac and cheese?

The nutritional content of vegan mac and cheese varies based on ingredients, but on average, a one-cup serving contains 250-350 calories, 5-10 grams of protein, and 10-15 grams of fat. Depending on the recipe, it may also provide fiber from plant-based pasta and vitamins like B12 if fortified nutritional yeast is included.

Can I eat vegan mac and cheese on a keto diet?

Vegan mac and cheese is typically not suitable for a keto diet due to its high carbohydrate content, primarily from pasta. However, using low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles or cauliflower can make it more keto-friendly.

Are there health benefits to eating vegan mac and cheese?

Vegan mac and cheese can offer health benefits if made with whole, plant-based ingredients. It is typically cholesterol-free and can be a good source of fiber if made with whole-grain pasta. However, some store-bought versions may be high in sodium and saturated fats, so it’s best to opt for homemade recipes when possible.

What is a recommended serving size for vegan mac and cheese?

A recommended serving size for vegan mac and cheese is typically 1 cup, which balances caloric intake (250-350 calories) while still providing nutrients. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

How does vegan mac and cheese compare to traditional mac and cheese?

Vegan mac and cheese generally contains less saturated fat and no cholesterol compared to traditional mac and cheese, which is often made with dairy products. However, traditional recipes may have slightly more protein due to cheese. Vegan versions rely on alternatives like nutritional yeast and plant-based milk for flavor and vitamins.

Data Sources & Scientific References