Vegetarian Baked Mac and Cheese: Easy 7 Step Comfort Food That Feeds the Whole Family

Vegetarian baked mac and cheese is a definite must have if you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and soul soothing.
It’s rich and hearty, and it’s the kind of comfort food that makes everyone at the table feel instantly satisfied without needing to use a single ounce of meat.
Whether you’re feeding a family on a budget, or just want a cozy dinner that hits the spot, this southern comfort food classic hits the spot.
Why This Vegetarian Mac and Cheese Recipe Works For Feeding The Family
Most people associate southern comfort food with heavy meats, fried everything, and butter on butter. However, this baked mac and cheese holds its own with no bacon or ham required.
It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast. You’ll put some on your plate, turn around, and then someone is already back for seconds. Even the meat lovers in your house will be too busy enjoying the cheesy goodness to even miss the meat.
Since it is meatless, it’s cheaper to make too, which makes it ideal when you’re feeding the family and want to stretch your budget without minimizing the taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Vegetarian Baked Mac And Cheese:
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- Salted water for boiling
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or more milk if needed)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but amazing)
- Salt & pepper to taste
The Cheeses:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar (shredded)
- 1 cup mozzarella (shredded)
- ½ cup parmesan (grated)
Topping (Optional but Worth It):
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- Extra cheddar for the top
How to Make Vegetarian Baked Mac and Cheese
- Boil Your Pasta
Cook your pasta until al dente. Don’t overcook, it finishes baking in the oven. - Make a Simple Roux
Melt the butter in a large saucepan. Add flour and stir for 1–2 minutes until it bubbles but doesn’t brown. - Add the Milk and Cream
Whisk in the milk and cream slowly. Stir until it thickens a bit, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. - Stir in the Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and half the parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy. - Combine With Pasta
Toss your drained pasta with the cheese sauce. Mix gently but thoroughly. - Transfer and Top
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and remaining cheese over the top. - Bake It
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Note: If you’re watching your weight, but still want to try this delicious recipe, click here to learn how to reduce the calorie count of mac and cheese.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Feeding a Family
This vegetarian baked mac and cheese isn’t just comfort food, it’s a crowd pleaser.
It’s easy to make in a big batch, and fills everyone up so they’re satisfied.
It reheats beautifully, and is ideal if you’re feeding a family of picky eaters, and are also on a budget.
It’s also a great recipe for folks who just want something warm and familiar at the end of the day.
You can even double the recipe, freeze it in smaller portions, or bring it to a potluck where it usually always is the first dish to disappear.
Serving Ideas:
- Serve with roasted veggies or a green salad, or fresh, homemade rolls (My personal favorite. )
- Add hot sauce or chili flakes for heat lovers.
- You can even use leftovers in a grilled cheese style sandwich with a spoonful of mac in the middle.
FAQ: Quick Answers for the Home Cook:
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook it a little under since it can get mushy.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze before or after baking. Reheat at 350°F covered in foil.
Can I use veggies in this recipe?
Yes you can! Simply stir in some steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach before baking.
Final Thoughts on Feeding the Family with This Vegetarian Baked Mac And Cheese:
If you’re looking for a hearty, affordable, and meat free meal that still tastes like it came out of grandma’s kitchen, this recipe will do the trick.
It’s the kind of comfort food that brings everyone together, and makes feeding the family feel like less of a chore, and more of a moment to be enjoyed.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or part of your Sunday tradition, this dish is as flexible as it is delicious.
If you would also like to explore an savory and creamy appetizer to go with this dish, try our Hummus and Pita recipe.
Vegetarian Baked Mac and Cheese: Easy 7-Step Comfort Food That Feeds the Whole Family
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni or any short pasta
- 1 pot salted water for boiling
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all purpose flour
- 2 cups Milk Whole or 2%
- 1 cup Heavy cream Or More Milk if needed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional but amazing
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups sharp cheddar shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan grated
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- extra cheddar for the top
Instructions
- Boil Pasta – Cook pasta until al dente. Don’t overcook it. It will bake more later.
- Make a Roux – Melt butter, add flour, and stir for 1–2 minutes until bubbly.
- Add Dairy – Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Cook until it thickens, then season.
- Add Cheese – Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and half the parmesan.
- Combine – Mix drained pasta with sauce. Toss gently to coat everything.
- Top & Bake – Pour into greased dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra cheese on top.
- Bake – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.