Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese

Get ready to turn up the heat with this Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac and Cheese—a creamy, spicy, dairy-free twist on comfort food that’s bold, plant-based, and crowd-pleasing. Featuring tender pasta coated in a silky cashew or dairy-free cheese sauce, this mac is kicked up with tangy buffalo flavor and baked to bubbly, golden perfection with a crispy topping. Whether you're craving a weeknight dinner with a kick or looking for the perfect vegan game-day dish, this recipe is 100% dairy-free, egg-free, and loaded with bold flavor. Perfect for flexitarians, plant-based foodies, and spicy comfort food lovers alike!

Vegan mac and cheese can be a very hit or miss dish if not done right. I usually like to make mine at home so I can control just how creamy or spicy the sauce is. Plus, I've seen mac and cheese on more and more Thanksgiving tables over the years (This Ultimate Vegan Mac + Cheese is a staple of mine too), so this Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese is the perfect new holiday side dish that caters to our dairy-free and gluten-free friends! It has tons of plant-based hot buffalo flavor along with a breadcrumb topping. Literally, everyone can enjoy this side! 

And once you try this vegan mac and cheese, you might end up wanting to try it in every possible way. Haha. I totally recreated my childhood fave, Copycat Broccoli Mac + Cheese, just to celebrate how awesome mac + cheese is --- And let me tell you, this Easy KFC Mac + Cheese Bowl [Copycat] is a winner too! But if you're all about that baked mac + cheese life, check out my Southern Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs or Baked White Mac + Cheese with Bacon next if you're not tied to a vegan diet. They are all seriously delicious and super easy.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese
• How to Make Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese
• Ingredients
• Tips for the Best Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese
• How to Make Creamy Cashew Cheese Sauce (Dairy-Free + Vegan)
• How to Make Homemade Breadcrumbs
• Best Vegan Cheeses for Buffalo Mac + Cheese
• Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Less Spicy?
• Can I Make This Without Nuts?
• Best Pasta Types for Vegan Mac + Cheese
• Can I Freeze Vegan Mac and Cheese?
• What to Eat + Serve with Buffalo Mac + Cheese With?
• Leftover Ideas for Vegan Mac and Cheese
• Common Q + A's for Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese
• More Delicious Vegan Recipes to Try Next!
• MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
• Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese 

Why You’ll Love This Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese

Whether you're fully plant-based or just craving next-level comfort food, this spicy, cheesy, dairy-free mac has everything going for it. Here’s why it’ll become your go-to:

• Ultra-Creamy, No Dairy Needed. Made with a cashew-based or plant milk cheese sauce that’s rich, velvety, and completely dairy-free—no one will miss the traditional version.
• Spicy + Bold Buffalo Flavor. Tangy, fiery buffalo sauce gives this mac a bold, addictive kick that takes it far beyond classic comfort food.
• Perfectly Baked + Crispy on Top. Baking adds a golden, crunchy topping while keeping the inside gooey and luscious—the ultimate mac texture combo.
• Totally Vegan + Easily Gluten-Free. Made without any eggs, butter, or cheese—and can be made gluten-free with your favorite pasta swap, so it fits a wide range of dietary needs.
• Great for Game Day, Weeknights, or Potlucks. This dish is a total crowd-pleaser. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and easy to make ahead or reheat—ideal for parties, meal prep, or comfort cravings.
• Customizable + Protein-Friendly. Add chickpeas, jackfruit, roasted cauliflower, or vegan sausage for a protein boost. Or keep it simple and let the buffalo sauce shine.

How to Make Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese

If you're used to making mac and cheese on the stovetop, this recipe will be pretty much the same process, in addition to baking it for a nice finish. Once you boil + drain the pasta, you'll start things off by sautéing the butter, flour, and seasonings a bit together so that once you pour in the milk and buffalo sauce, you can whisk everything to a thickened, smooth consistency for a good base.

Then, you'll add in the cheese shreds, stir until melted and then add in the cooked pasta. Stir, stir, assemble with breadcrumbs topping and wallah!

Ingredients

The ingredients for this Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese is pretty standard (besides the cheeses), and you may have most of them at home right now!

MAC + CHEESE:

• On Everything All-Purpose Blend. This is my go-to for building deep flavor with ease. You can purchase my signature On Everything All-Purpose blend for that bold, well-rounded taste. You can also make your own homemade blend.
• Shells, Elbow, or Lumache pasta. You can use a different short noodle if you like also, however, I chose Lumache pasta for a nice texture and switch up from the usual.
• Milk. I like to use creamy Almond milk for the best consistency, however, you can use your fave plant-based milk.
• Flour. Used for the thickening of filling and as base for mac + cheese.
• Plant-based cheddar. It's important to use a high-quality cheddar cheese shreds for this mac + cheese, for both flavor and "melting ability". I love using Violife, So Delicious Dairy-Free, or Daiya. You can mix and match with mozzarella shreds, etc.
• Buffalo sauce. Use your favorite vegan brand, I like to use a premium buffalo sauce for the best flavor.
• Smoked paprika. This adds just a hint of spice and color to the dish.

TOPPING:

• Breadcrumbs. You can use panko or Italian-style. You can make your own homemade Panko breadcrumbs as well.
• On Everything All-Purpose Blend. This is my go-to for building deep flavor with ease. You can purchase my signature On Everything All-Purpose blend for that bold, well-rounded taste. You can also make your own homemade blend.
• Vegan Butter. You'll need to melt the butter to stir together for the topping!

SHOP MY FAVORITE BAKEWARE ITEMS AND ACCESSORIES FOR THIS MAC + CHEESE!

Here, I’ve curated a list of cooking + baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods or cooked meals, especially with this Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese. Everything from my fave dutch pot/oven, wooden spoons, immersion hand-blender, mixing bowls, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

Tips for the Best Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese

Soak Your Cashews (Or Use Pre-Made Dairy-Free Cheese). If you’re making your own vegan cheese sauce, soak cashews for at least 4 hours or boil them for 15 minutes for a smoother blend. Want a shortcut? Use a high-quality store-bought dairy-free cheese for a quick, creamy base.

Choose the Right Pasta. Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells or cavatappi also work great for catching all that buffalo-cheesy goodness. Use gluten-free pasta if needed—just slightly undercook before baking so it holds up.

Blend for Ultimate Creaminess. Whether you're using cashews, tofu, or a combo, blend your sauce until completely smooth. A high-speed blender creates the silkiest, cheesiest texture without any dairy.

Add Buffalo Sauce Gradually. Buffalo sauce brings the heat! Start with a small amount and adjust to taste—this ensures it's spicy but not overpowering. You can always add more after baking.

Boost the Flavor Layers. Add in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, or a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to mimic that cheesy tang and depth.

Don’t Skip the Baked Topping. A crispy topping takes this dish to the next level! Use panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or gluten-free alternatives mixed with a bit of olive oil or vegan butter for a golden, crunchy finish.

Bake Until Bubbly and Crisp. Bake at 375–400°F until the cheese sauce is bubbling at the edges and the top is golden-brown—usually about 35-40 minutes. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to thicken before serving.

Make It Ahead-Friendly. Prep the mac and cheese ahead, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving. Add a splash of dairy-free milk before baking to keep it creamy.

Add Mix-Ins for Texture. Crispy chickpeas, sautéed kale, broccoli, or roasted cauliflower make great mix-ins for added flavor, fiber, and plant-based protein.

Garnish for Freshness. Top with fresh parsley, green onions, or vegan ranch drizzle before serving to balance the heat and add visual appeal.

How to Make Creamy Cashew Cheese Sauce (Dairy-Free + Vegan)

The option of cashew cream sauce is the secret to that rich, velvety texture in vegan mac and cheese—no dairy required! It’s simple to make, nutrient-packed, and super customizable for bold flavors like buffalo or smoky cheese. See my Ultimate Mac + Cheese Recipe for instructions!

Ingredients:

• Raw cashews (unsalted)
• Filtered water or dairy-free milk (unsweetened)
• Nutritional yeast – for a cheesy, umami flavor
• Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar – for tang
• Garlic + onion powder – to deepen the flavor
• Salt + pepper – to taste
• Optional: smoked paprika, mustard, turmeric (for color), or a splash of hot sauce

Soak the Cashews:

• Quick method: Boil cashews in water for 10–15 minutes
• Overnight method: Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight
  This softens them for easier blending and ultra-smooth texture.

Pro Tips:

• Use unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk for extra creaminess instead of water.
• Add a splash of starch-thickened broth if you want a “stretchy” texture.
• Make it ahead! Cashew cream can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

How to Make Homemade Breadcrumbs

To make your own breadcrumbs, simply grind 1-2 cups of cubed bread into a food processor until finely chopped. Place crumbs onto a parchment lined baking sheet and spread out evenly.

Bake for 5-6 minutes in the oven set at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, stirring occasionally. Once brown + crisp, remove from oven and let cool. Continue recipe steps and store remaining breadcrumbs in a tightly sealed container.

Best Vegan Cheeses for Buffalo Mac + Cheese

When it comes to nailing that bold, cheesy flavor in a dairy-free baked mac and cheese, choosing the right vegan cheese makes all the difference. Here are the top vegan cheese options for creating a creamy, melty, and satisfying buffalo mac:

• Violife Just Like Cheddar Shreds. Rich, melty, and slightly sharp—Violife’s cheddar-style shreds melt beautifully into sauces and add a classic cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with buffalo heat.
• Miyoko’s Creamery Vegan Cheddar or Roadhouse Spread. Miyoko’s cheeses are cultured and cashew-based, delivering a tangy, fermented depth that mimics real cheese. Their cheddar block or Roadhouse spread works great melted into the sauce or swirled on top.
• Follow Your Heart Vegan Cheddar or Mozzarella. Creamy, mild, and reliable for melting. These shreds are great for blending into sauces and baking with a crispy top layer.
• Chao Creamy Original Slices (by Field Roast). Though technically slices, Chao’s coconut-based cheese melts smoothly when chopped or blended into warm sauce—perfect for a buttery, mellow base.
• Daiya Cutting Board Shreds (Not Original Line). The Cutting Board Collection has improved melt and flavor over the original. Great for those who love stretchy, melty texture in baked pasta dishes.
• Trader Joe’s Vegan Cheddar Shreds. Budget-friendly and surprisingly creamy when melted—great for weeknight mac and cheese recipes that still taste indulgent.
• Homemade Vegan Cheese Sauce. Don’t sleep on DIY options! Cashew, cauliflower, or potato-carrot based cheese sauces with nutritional yeast, lemon, and garlic can be just as flavorful and clean-label.

Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Less Spicy?

Yes! If you’re sensitive to heat or serving kids, you can still enjoy the flavor of buffalo sauce without the fire. Simply:

• Use mild buffalo sauce or cut regular buffalo sauce with a bit of vegan mayo, coconut milk, or extra cheese sauce to mellow it out.
• Omit hot sauce from the base and just drizzle a small amount on top before serving for controlled spice.
• Add a touch of maple syrup or agave to balance the heat with subtle sweetness.

Can I Make This Without Nuts?

Absolutely! If you have a nut allergy, here are delicious nut-free alternatives for homemade cheese sauce and store-bought options:

• Use sunflower seeds (soaked + blended) in place of cashews.
• Try a silken tofu–based cheese sauce for a creamy, high-protein alternative.
• Use store-bought nut-free vegan cheese, like Daiya’s Cutting Board Collection or Follow Your Heart.

Best Pasta Types for Vegan Mac + Cheese

Choosing the right pasta can affect texture and satisfaction. Try any of the following:

• Elbow macaroni – classic and always a hit.
• Cavatappi or shells – great for holding thick sauces.
• Gluten-free pasta – choose brown rice, chickpea, or lentil pasta for added nutrition.

Be sure to cook your pasta 1–2 minutes under al dente so it stays firm during baking.

Can I Freeze Vegan Mac and Cheese?

Yes! This vegan buffalo mac + cheese dish freezes well. To do so effectively:

• Let it cool completely, then portion into airtight, freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months.
• Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered, for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

What to Eat + Serve with Buffalo Mac + Cheese With?

You can serve this Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese as an entree all on its own (with a tall glass of Traditional Southern Iced Sweet Tea or Southern Peach Iced Tea) or treat it like a side dish. When it comes to most pasta dishes, I often enjoy them with a side of bread of some sort. Most times, I make my own homemade Garlic Bread, however, you can choose to spruce things up with many other options such as:

• A delicious Salad-- Try Green Goddess Pasta Salad, Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad, or Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad with Hot Honey Chickpeas
• Sautéed Greens
• Grilled Veggies
• Crispy Roasted Chickpeas
• Vegan Sweet Cornbread
• Celery + vegan ranch dip for a classic buffalo pairing
• Roasted or steamed broccoli
• Texas Toast Garlic Bread
• Everything Bagel Cauliflower Bites 

Here's the thing. This Mac + Cheese recipe is so delicious and flavorful that you can honestly enjoy it all by itself. Seriously, the tender macaroni + spicy, 'cheesy' creamy sauce is everything! So, feel free to dig in and savor every single bite. It's a dish that stands tall on its own!

Leftover Ideas for Vegan Mac and Cheese

Turn leftovers of this mac and cheese into new meals:

• Use it as a base for a buffalo mac + cheese grilled sandwich.
• Stir in sautéed veggies or beans for a quick lunch bowl.
• Add to a casserole dish with breadcrumbs for a next-day bake.
• Portion into muffin tins, bake, and serve as mac and cheese bites!
• Create a food bowl and make the mac and cheese along with rice (I love coconut rice) or mashed potatoes as the base and top with your favorite veggies, beans, or protein.

Common Q + A's for Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese

More Delicious Vegan Recipes to Try Next!

• Best Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
• Vegan BBQ Meatballs + Creamy Polenta
• Flourless Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles
• Vegan BBQ Beef Wellington
• Vegan Vanilla Oreo Cake
• Nourishing Winter Veggie Soup
• One-Pot Chickpeas and White Beans
• Southern Black Eyed Peas
• Creamy Roasted Chickpeas and Avocado Salad
• Vegan Chickpea 'Tuna' Melt Sandwich
• Best Vegan Pot Pie
• Spicy Vegan Chili
• The Best Vegan Chocolate Cake

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried my Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag me @shanikagrahamwhite on Instagram. I love hearing from you!

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