I love this 20-minute meal because it’s both indulgent and healthy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting. The best part? It’s made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients you probably already have.
The sauce is a game-changer. Blended white beans create a smooth texture without cashews or coconut milk. Add garlic, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast for a tangy, cheesy flavor. A drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of sea salt tie it all together.
This dish is versatile. Use any pasta shape and toss in seasonal veggies like broccoli stems or leaves. It’s packed with plant-based protein, making it a budget-friendly option. Plus, leftovers store well for quick lunches the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Vegan Pasta
This dish is a lifesaver for busy evenings, combining simplicity with rich flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for those nights when you need a quick yet satisfying meal. The best part? It’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
The sauce is a standout, blending white beans for a creamy texture without dairy. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor, while garlic and lemon juice bring a tangy kick. A drizzle of olive oil ties everything together for a smooth, irresistible finish.
This recipe is highly customizable. Swap broccoli for roasted veggies or add smoked tofu for extra protein. It’s a nutrient-dense option, packed with fiber and essential vitamins. Plus, it’s family-friendly—kids love the creamy texture, and it satisfies those cheese cravings without the dairy.
Affordable and easy to make, this dish uses pantry staples like canned beans and frozen veggies. It’s also great for meal prepping, as leftovers store well for quick lunches. For more quick and delicious meal ideas, check out this 30-minute recipe.
Ingredients for Creamy Vegan Pasta
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this flavorful dish. Here’s everything you’ll need:
- Pasta: 8 oz small shells, orecchiette, or gluten-free pasta.
- Sauce: 1.5 cups cooked white beans, 3 tbsp lemon juice, ¼ cup nutritional yeast, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 garlic clove, ¼ tsp onion powder.
- Veggies: 5 cups broccoli (florets + stems), 1 small yellow onion.
- Extras: ¼ cup toasted pine nuts, red pepper flakes (optional), fresh basil for garnish.
- Liquid: ¼ cup vegetable broth (adjust for desired creaminess).
These ingredients are easy to find and combine to create a rich, satisfying meal. The sauce, made with white beans and nutritional yeast, adds a cheesy flavor without dairy. Fresh veggies like broccoli and onion bring crunch and nutrition.
Don’t forget the extras! Toasted pine nuts add a nutty crunch, while red pepper flakes bring a hint of heat. Finish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Creamy Vegan Pasta
Making this dish is easier than you think, and the results are incredibly satisfying. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a meal that’s both simple and delicious.
Step 1: Blend the Creamy Sauce
Start by blending the sauce ingredients. Combine white beans, vegetable broth, lemon juice, olive oil, nutritional yeast, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth and set aside. This sauce is the heart of the dish, providing a rich and tangy flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Veggies
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan. Sauté onions for 5 minutes, then add broccoli stems and florets. Steam with a splash of vegetable broth until tender.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Finally, toss the cooked pasta with ¾ of the sauce and the sautéed veggies. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve the desired creaminess. Serve in bowls, topped with extra sauce, toasted pine nuts, and fresh basil. For more quick and delicious meal ideas, check out this one-pot creamy garlic pasta recipe.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Dish
Customizing this dish is simple and fun, making it perfect for any taste or dietary need. For a gluten-free option, swap regular noodles for GF pasta and use tamari instead of soy sauce. If you love spice, add red pepper flakes or pickled jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick.
Want a creamier texture? Blend in tahini or soaked cashews. For a protein boost, stir in chickpeas or crispy tofu. Fresh basil adds a bright, herby finish that complements the rich flavor.
Seasonal swaps keep this meal exciting year-round. Try asparagus in spring, roasted tomatoes in summer, or butternut squash in fall. With these tips, you can create a dish that’s uniquely yours every time.