Indulge in the ultimate comfort food reimagined with a wholesome twist—meet Paleo Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese! This dairy-free and grain-free recipe features tender cassava pasta cloaked in a velvety, plant-based "cheese" sauce made from creamy coconut cream, nutrient-packed nutritional yeast, and a touch of savory ghee. Enhanced with aromatic spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, every bite delivers a rich, smoky flavor reminiscent of classic southern mac and cheese. Perfect for paleo enthusiasts or anyone seeking a healthier alternative, this quick and easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes and serves as a satisfying main dish or a shareable side. Garnish with extra nutritional yeast for added cheesiness and enjoy this guilt-free, nostalgic delight!
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
Add the cassava pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the ghee over medium heat.
Add tapioca flour to the ghee, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in the unsweetened almond milk and continue to whisk until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the coconut cream and nutritional yeast until fully combined and smooth.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to the sauce. Stir to mix well.
Slowly cook the sauce, stirring frequently, for 5 more minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Remove sauce from heat and gently mix the cooked pasta into the sauce until well coated.
Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish, and serve immediately, garnished with additional nutritional yeast or smoked paprika, if desired.
Serving size | (780.0g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 2068.9 |
Total Fat 71.6g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 55.8g | 0% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.1g | |
Cholesterol 80mg | 0% |
Sodium 1439.0mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 335.5g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 12.2g | 0% |
Total Sugars 128.8g | |
Protein 19.5g | 0% |
Vitamin D 87.8IU | 0% |
Calcium 547.1mg | 0% |
Iron 6.8mg | 0% |
Potassium 1418.7mg | 0% |
Source of Calories