The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups raw cashews
• 2 cups water (or less if not using vegan cheese, see Notes)
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 (7-oz) bag shredded vegan cheddar cheese, optional
• 12 ounces elbow pasta
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 4 tablespoons vegan butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Nutrition (per serving)