Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Thyme Breadcrumbs (Vegan)

Ingredients

• 1-2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups cubed butternut squash
• 1 yellow onion (cut into quarters)
• 1 garlic bulb
• 1/2 cup cashews (soaked in boiling water for 1 hour. )
• 1 1/4 cup oat milk
• 1 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp white miso paste
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp tomato paste/puree
• 1 tsp paprika powder
• 1/4 nutmeg powder
• salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup grated vegan cheese (optional )
• 1 pound short cut pasta
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 1/2 tbsp vegan butter
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves