Whenever I am blessed to cook up a colorful Haitian recipe, I get to celebrate my many ancestors! And since you can never go wrong with a big pot of mac & cheese as an easy weekday dinner, the zesty peppers, rich flavors, and plant-based cheese truly takes this dish to the top. With this Haitian Mac and Cheese you get to dive into the taste of cheesy caribbean soul food.

If you love this recipe, you may also like my Mac and Cheese Stuffed Shells and Vegan Cheeseburger Eggrolls!

COURSE: Main

CUISINE:Caribbean-inspired, Haitian

NUTRITIONAL FACTS: (Per 2 Cups Serving)

Calories 480
Protein 15g
Dietary Fiber 8g

Why You Will Love This Haitian Mac and Cheese:

You'll absolutely adore this recipe for Haitian Mac and Cheese! It's not just about the delicious flavors; it's a celebration of heritage and tradition with every bite. As you whip up this vibrant dish, you're honoring your ancestors and embracing the soulful essence of Caribbean cuisine. Packed with zesty peppers, rich flavors, and gooey plant-based cheese, it's the ultimate comfort food that's both easy and full of cultural significance. Get ready to dive into a bowl of cheesy goodness that'll uplift your spirits and fill your heart with joy!

About the Ingredients:

Get ready for a burst of flavor with this cheerful ingredient list! Sliced onions, red and green bell peppers, and garlic bring freshness, while a hint of spice from Scotch Bonnet or Habanero pepper adds excitement. Vegan chicken bouillon cubes build a savory base, paired perfectly with rigatoni pasta and creamy coconut milk. Vegan cheeses and seasoning create irresistible richness, while tasty toppings like vegan parmesan and parsley add the perfect finishing touch. Get ready for a deliciously colorful and flavorful Haitian Mac and Cheese!

Sliced Red Bell Peppers

Sliced red bell peppers add a vibrant burst of color and a sweet, slightly tangy flavor to this recipe. Their crisp texture provides a satisfying crunch, complementing the creamy and savory elements of the dish perfectly. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, red bell peppers not only enhance the visual appeal of the meal but also contribute to its nutritional value. Whether sautéed until tender or enjoyed raw for an added crunch, these peppers elevate the dish, adding depth and complexity to every bite.

Whole Scotch Bonnet or Habanero Pepper

The Whole Scotch Bonnet or Habanero Pepper in this recipe brings a fiery kick that elevates the dish to new heights of flavor. Known for their intense heat and fruity undertones, these peppers add a vibrant spiciness that tantalizes the taste buds. Carefully balancing heat with flavor, they infuse the dish with a depth and complexity that leaves a lasting impression.

Whether diced finely for a subtle warmth or left whole for a bold punch, the Scotch Bonnet or Habanero Pepper transforms this dish into a culinary adventure, perfect for those who crave a spicy thrill. Proceed with caution, as a little goes a long way in delivering that irresistible heat!

Vegan Chicken Bouillon Cube

In this Haitian Mac and Cheese, the Vegan Chicken Bouillon Cube serves as a flavorful foundation, infusing the dish with rich umami notes and savory depth. Crafted without animal products, it provides all the traditional taste of chicken bouillon while remaining entirely plant-based, aligning perfectly with vegan and vegetarian dietary preferences. Just a couple of cubes elevate the overall taste profile, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness, making it an essential ingredient for enhancing the savory essence of the dish without compromising on ethical considerations.

Rigatoni Pasta

Rigatoni Pasta serves as a hearty and comforting base, eagerly soaking up the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean-inspired ingredients. Its tubular shape and ridges provide the perfect canvas for capturing the creamy coconut milk and cheesy goodness, ensuring each bite is packed with satisfying texture. Rigatoni's robustness complements the bold flavors of the peppers, garlic, and seasoning, offering a delightful contrast to the dish's spicy and savory elements. Whether it's embracing the sauce or holding onto the cheesy toppings, Rigatoni Pasta plays a crucial role in making every forkful of this dish a truly delightful experience.

Vegan Gouda or Provolone Cheese

Vegan Gouda or Provolone Cheese adds a delightful depth of flavor and creamy texture to this Haitian Mac and Cheese. Whether melted into the savory sauce or sprinkled generously over the top, its rich and tangy profile elevates the dish to new heights of deliciousness. Crafted with plant-based ingredients, this cheese alternative offers all the satisfaction of traditional dairy cheese without compromising on taste or quality. With its meltability and versatility, it seamlessly integrates into the recipe, ensuring a satisfyingly cheesy experience for vegans and non-vegans alike.

Questions and Tips:

What equipment can I make this recipe in?

You can whip up this delightful recipe with just a few essential kitchen tools! All you need are a large pot or saucepan for cooking the pasta and sauce, a sharp knife and cutting board for slicing and dicing the veggies, a stirring utensil for mixing everything together, and a baking dish for baking if required. With these handy tools, you'll be all set to create a scrumptious meal bursting with flavor!

Are the extra toppings necessary?

While the extra toppings add a delightful finishing touch, they're not necessary to enjoy this dish fully! You can get creative with toppings like toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture, sliced avocado for creaminess, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. Don't hesitate to personalize your bowl with your favorite toppings and make it your own culinary masterpiece!

What else can I serve with this Haitian Mac and Cheese?

For a delightful Haitian-inspired feast, pair your Mac and Cheese with a side of crispy fried plantains, adding a sweet and savory contrast. Complete the meal with a refreshing tropical salad tossed with fresh mango, avocado, and citrus dressing. Don't forget a pitcher of chilled pineapple tea to keep things cool and vibrant. Get ready for a taste of the Caribbean that'll leave everyone smiling and satisfied!

How long does this recipe last?

This recipe lasts for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy its delicious flavors throughout the week!

Will non-vegans like this?

Absolutely! Non-vegans will adore this Haitian Mac and Cheese just as much! With its rich, creamy texture and flavorful vegan cheese, it's a delight for anyone seeking a delicious and satisfying meal. So go ahead, serve it up and watch everyone at the table enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!

Haitian Mac and Cheese