Craving a rich and comforting pasta dish but want to keep it vegan? This Vegan Creamy Pasta is the perfect answer! Made with plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, and savory seasonings, this dish delivers a creamy, cheesy texture without any dairy.
With just 20 minutes of preparation time, you can create a smooth, luxurious sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly. It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture.
This recipe is highly customizable—add your favorite veggies, plant-based protein, or adjust the seasonings to fit your taste. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to enjoy a dairy-free meal, this creamy pasta will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Super Creamy Texture: Achieve a luscious, silky sauce without dairy.
- Customizable: Add vegetables, proteins, or different seasonings for variety.
- Family-Friendly: Even non-vegans will love this comforting dish.
- Nutrient-Packed: Uses healthy plant-based ingredients for a guilt-free meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Store leftovers for a convenient next-day lunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Simply use gluten-free pasta for a wheat-free version.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (regular or gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp vegan butter or olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (oat, soy, or almond works best)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipment Used:
- Large pot
- Skillet or saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Directions & Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the vegan butter (or heat the olive oil).
- Add shallots and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the plant-based milk and bring it to a light simmer.
- Stir in nutritional yeast, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and whisk it in.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach the desired creaminess.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra nutritional yeast.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
This Vegan Creamy Pasta is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients while remaining low in saturated fats. Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options to further customize the nutrition!
Prep Time and Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations:
- Protein Boost: Add tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas.
- Extra Cheesy: Stir in vegan shredded cheese.
- Veggie-Packed: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted tomatoes.
- Nut-Based Sauce: Replace plant-based milk with blended cashew cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk if needed.
2. What’s the best plant-based milk for this recipe?
Oat, soy, or almond milk work best due to their neutral taste and creaminess.
3. Can I make this oil-free?
Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of oil when sautéing.
4. What can I serve with this pasta?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Pro Tips By Lyndy
- Use oat or soy milk for the creamiest texture.
- Reserve pasta water to help create a silky sauce.
- Sauté garlic and shallots properly for the best flavor.
- Add nutritional yeast generously for a cheesy, umami taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread.
- Pair with a simple green salad.
- Top with crispy tofu or tempeh for extra protein.
Creamy Vegan Pasta : A Rich and Dairy-Free Comfort Dish
Craving a rich and comforting pasta dish but want to keep it vegan? This Vegan Creamy Pasta is the perfect answer! Made with plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, and savory seasonings, this dish delivers a creamy, cheesy texture without any dairy.
- Large pot
- Skillet or saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- 8 oz pasta (regular or gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp vegan butter or olive oil
- 1 small shallot (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (oat, soy, or almond works best)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the vegan butter (or heat the olive oil).
- Add shallots and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the plant-based milk and bring it to a light simmer.
- Stir in nutritional yeast, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and whisk it in.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach the desired creaminess.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra nutritional yeast.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Use oat or soy milk for the creamiest texture.
Reserve pasta water to help create a silky sauce.
Sauté garlic and shallots properly for the best flavor.