Vegan Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Missing that rich and creamy Alfredo pasta but looking for a vegan option? Making a fantastic vegan Alfredo is actually quite simple, and with a few clever substitutions, you can create a plant-based version that’s just as satisfying as the classic. This recipe is completely cashew-free. We achieve that rich, decadent texture with a clever ingredient swap, resulting in a plant-based sauce that rivals the classic.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Alfredo Pasta Recipe
- Say goodbye to heavy cream and cheese! This recipe is lighter but still delivers a satisfying richness.
- Perfect for busy weeknights! The sauce comes together quickly, making it ideal for a speedy yet delicious meal.
- Allergy concerns? This dairy-free and nut-free recipe ensures everyone at the table can enjoy a taste of Alfredo heaven.
- The perfect base for customization! Add your favorite veggies, protein, or herbs to personalize your pasta dish.
- Leftovers taste great! This recipe reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need all the ingredients in the photograph below.
How to Make Vegan Alfredo Pasta with Step-By-Step Instructions
A complete printable recipe and the measurements in both US customary and metric are available in the recipe card below.
Follow the package directions for cooking your spaghetti.
Make the Creamy Sauce
While the pasta cooks, melt vegan butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for a couple of minutes, until fragrant.
Thicken the Base
Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute, creating a roux.
Slowly whisk in the almond milk, making sure to incorporate all the flour mixture. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
Season it Up!
Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Combine & Serve
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the creamy sauce until well combined. Serve immediately topped with vegan parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Recipe Notes and Expert Tips
- Plant-Milk Magic: Unsweetened almond milk works beautifully here, but feel free to experiment with your favorite plant-based milk! Oat milk creates a creamier sauce, while soy milk offers a slightly richer flavor.
- Starchy Secrets: Reserve some pasta water before draining! Adding a splash or two of this starchy liquid to your sauce can help loosen it up and achieve that restaurant-style silky texture.
- Roux Power: The roux (flour cooked in vegan butter) is the base of our creamy sauce. If your sauce seems a bit thin after simmering, whisk in a cornstarch slurry. Simply mix one teaspoon cornstarch with one tablespoon of water and whisk it into the simmering sauce until thickened to your desired consistency.
- Spice It Up!: Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor. Nutritional yeast also adds a bit of a savory, umami complexity.
- Herb Haven: Fresh herbs like chopped chives, basil, or oregano can add a wonderful pop of freshness to your finished dish.
- Don’t be shy with the veggies! This recipe is a fantastic starting point for incorporating your favorite chopped vegetables. Broccoli florets, sautéed spinach, or sliced mushrooms all work beautifully. For heartier vegetables, pre-cook them slightly before adding them to the sauce.
How to Store Vegan Alfredo Pasta
Vegan Alfredo pasta reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of plant-based milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
What to Serve With Vegan Alfredo Pasta
Fresh & Simple: A light and refreshing Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the Alfredo, adding a pop of green and a delightful peppery bite.
Garlic Bread with a Twist: Upgrade your classic garlic bread by using toasted baguette slices and topping them with a vegan pesto or a simple mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and dried herbs.
Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup: For a comforting and contrasting starter, try a vibrant tomato soup made with plant-based milk and fresh or canned tomatoes. Serve it warm for an appetizer or light lunch alongside your Alfredo.
More Easy Recipes for You to Try at Home
Need even more inspiration for taste meals? Check out these delicious recipes!
- Red Pepper Pasta
- Walnut Sauce Pasta
- Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
- Asparagus and White Bean Risotto
- Sweet Corn Risotto
Did you make this recipe? We’d love to know! Please leave a 5-star review below (it really helps!) and tag and follow us on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram, for more tasty inspiration!
Vegan Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ pound spaghetti
- ½ cup butter vegan
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 ¼ cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Parmesan cheese vegan
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to the package directions.½ pound spaghetti
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add the butter, once it melts, add the garlic and cook for a couple of minutes.½ cup butter, 2 garlic cloves minced
- Add the flour and mix until creamy. Add the almond milk and stir, bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, or until it thickens. Add the Italian seasoning, salt and pepper.2 tablespoons flour, 1 ¼ cup almond milk, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, Salt and pepper
- Add the spaghetti and gently toss to coat evenly with the creamy alfredo sauce until well combined.
- Serve with vegan Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.1 tablespoon fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese
Notes
- Plant-Milk Magic: Unsweetened almond milk works beautifully here, but feel free to experiment with your favorite plant-based milk! Oat milk creates a creamier sauce, while soy milk offers a slightly richer flavor.
- Starchy Secrets: Reserve some pasta water before draining! Adding a splash or two of this starchy liquid to your sauce can help loosen it up and achieve that restaurant-style silky texture.
- Roux Power: The roux (flour cooked in vegan butter) is the base of our creamy sauce. If your sauce seems a bit thin after simmering, whisk in a cornstarch slurry. Simply mix one teaspoon cornstarch with one tablespoon of water and whisk it into the simmering sauce until thickened to your desired consistency.
- Spice It Up!: Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor. Nutritional yeast also adds a bit of a savory, umami complexity.
- Herb Haven: Fresh herbs like chopped chives, basil, or oregano can add a wonderful pop of freshness to your finished dish.
- Don’t be shy with the veggies! This recipe is a fantastic starting point for incorporating your favorite chopped vegetables. Broccoli florets, sautéed spinach, or sliced mushrooms all work beautifully. For heartier vegetables, pre-cook them slightly before adding them to the sauce.
