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Creamy High Protein Vegan Mac and Cheese (No Cashews, with Brami Pasta & Tofu Crumbs)

Discover the ultimate high-protein vegan mac and cheese made with Brami pasta, tofu crumbs, chickpeas, and a crispy panko topping. This nut-free, dairy-free, and comforting vegan dinner is packed with flavor, crunch, and plant-based protein power.
2.50 from 18 votes
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course, pasta
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

🧀 For the Creamy Sauce

  • 1 cup vegan shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella-style
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant milk soy or oat milk recommended for creaminess
  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas or one 15 oz can, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil optional for richness
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric for color and subtle flavor
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

🍝 For the Pasta

  • 8 ounces Brami high-protein pasta or any chickpea/lentil pasta
  • 2 to 2½ cups water just enough to cover pasta during cooking; add more if needed

🍳 For the Paprika Tofu Crumbs

  • ½ block 200 g extra-firm tofu, pressed and crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Tip: You can bake these for extra crispiness or sauté on the stovetop until golden.
  • 🥖 For the Crunchy Panko Nutritional Yeast Topping
  • ½ cup panko bread crumbs use gluten-free if desired
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegan butter
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Optional: Add a pinch of smoked paprika for color and extra flavor.

Instructions
 

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta with Minimal Water

  • In a medium saucepan, add 8 ounces of Brami high-protein pasta and pour in just enough water to cover—about 2 to 2½ cups.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  • 💡 Do not drain the water. You’ll use it as the starchy base for your creamy vegan cheese sauce.

2️⃣ Add Vegan Cheese to the Pasta

  • When the pasta is about halfway cooked (slightly firm in the center but softening around the edges), add 1 cup vegan shredded cheese directly into the pot.
  • As the cheese melts, it will combine with the pasta water, creating a creamy, starchy base that’s perfect for binding your sauce.
  • Stir frequently to keep the mixture smooth and prevent sticking.

3️⃣ Blend the Chickpea Sauce

  • While the pasta and cheese cook, make your high-protein vegan cheese sauce:
  • In a blender or food processor, combine:
  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant milk
  • Blend until completely smooth and creamy. The chickpeas add protein and body, while nutritional yeast brings that rich, cheesy flavor.

4️⃣ Combine Pasta & Sauce

  • Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, pour the chickpea-nutritional yeast sauce into the pot.
  • Stir over low heat until everything is well combined and silky.
  • Adjust thickness with a splash of plant milk if needed—the sauce should coat the pasta luxuriously.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings if desired.

5️⃣ Make the Paprika Tofu Crumbs

  • In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add crumbled tofu, soy sauce, paprika, and garlic powder.
  • Cook until golden and slightly crispy, about 8–10 minutes.
  • Set aside as your protein-packed crunchy topping.

6️⃣ Toast the Panko Nutritional Yeast Topping

  • In the same pan, add ½ cup panko bread crumbs, 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
  • Toast over medium heat until golden and fragrant, stirring often.

7️⃣ Assemble Your Vegan Mac and Cheese

  • Spoon your creamy tofu and chickpea mac and cheese into bowls or a baking dish.
  • Top generously with paprika tofu crumbs and panko nutritional yeast crunch.
  • Optional: Place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to crisp the topping and deepen the flavor.

8️⃣ Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve hot and dig in! Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and packed with plant-based protein—a comforting, high-protein vegan mac and cheese made completely without cashews.
Keyword High Protein Mac & Cheese, vegan Mac & cheese