Vegan Mushroom Sauce Recipe for Flavorful Easy Meals

Updated On: September 30, 2025

If you’re looking for a rich, savory sauce that’s completely plant-based and bursting with umami goodness, this vegan mushroom sauce recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you’re topping pasta, drizzling over roasted vegetables, or adding a luscious touch to your favorite grain bowls, this sauce delivers creamy texture and deep mushroom flavor without any dairy or animal products.

It’s quick to whip up, uses simple ingredients, and brings that gourmet touch to everyday meals.

Mushrooms have a natural earthiness that makes them perfect for sauces, and when combined with garlic, herbs, and a splash of plant-based milk or broth, the result is a velvety, flavorful sauce that complements a wide variety of dishes.

If you’ve been searching for a versatile vegan sauce to elevate your cooking, keep reading—this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan mushroom sauce is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold flavors but wants to keep meals healthy and animal-product free. It’s incredibly easy to make with pantry staples and fresh mushrooms, and it comes together in under 30 minutes.

The sauce is naturally creamy without cream, thanks to blended cashews and plant milk, and it’s packed with nutrients from mushrooms, garlic, and herbs.

One of the best parts? It’s highly adaptable.

Don’t have cashews? Use more plant milk or silken tofu.

Want a thicker sauce? Simply simmer it a bit longer.

Plus, it freezes well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it anytime you crave a comforting, savory sauce. Pair it with your favorite vegan bread, grains, or veggies for an instant flavor upgrade.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Cremini or button mushrooms, sliced 12 oz (340 g)
Raw cashews, soaked for 2 hours or boiled for 15 minutes 1/2 cup (70 g)
Vegetable broth 1 cup (240 ml)
Unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy) 1/2 cup (120 ml)
Garlic cloves, minced 3 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, finely chopped 1 small
Nutritional yeast 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper to taste As needed

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Blender or food processor
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Small bowl (for soaking cashews)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cashews: Soak the raw cashews in warm water for at least 2 hours, or boil them for 15 minutes to soften. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  3. Cook the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown. This step is crucial for developing flavor.
  4. Add herbs and seasoning: Stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to let the flavors meld together.
  5. Blend the sauce base: In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, vegetable broth, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
  6. Combine and simmer: Pour the cashew mixture into the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms. Stir well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it heats.
  7. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more plant milk or broth to reach your preferred consistency.
  8. Serve warm: Remove from heat and serve immediately over pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or your favorite dishes.

Tips & Variations

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari when sautéing the mushrooms.

If you want a garlic punch, roast the garlic beforehand or add a pinch of garlic powder along with fresh garlic.

Swap cashews for soaked almonds or even silken tofu for a different but equally creamy texture.

For a spicy twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes.

Leftovers freeze well; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (Approx. 1/4 cup)
Calories 120
Protein 4 g
Fat 8 g
Carbohydrates 8 g
Fiber 2 g
Sugar 2 g
Sodium 250 mg

Serving Suggestions

This versatile vegan mushroom sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Drizzle it over warm pasta for a comforting dinner or spoon it over steamed vegetables to add richness and flavor.

It’s also delicious as a gravy substitute on mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes.

For a hearty meal, serve alongside a grain bowl with quinoa, roasted seasonal vegetables, and fresh herbs. Or use it as a topping for vegan burgers or savory crepes.

If you love baking, try it as a sauce filling for a savory mushroom tart or pair it with a fresh loaf using our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Don’t forget to explore more plant-based sauces like our creamy Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or spice things up with options found in Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

Conclusion

This vegan mushroom sauce is a simple yet flavorful addition to your cooking repertoire. Its creamy texture and rich umami flavor make it an ideal companion to countless dishes, from pasta to roasted veggies.

By using wholesome, plant-based ingredients like cashews, mushrooms, and nutritional yeast, you get a sauce that’s not only delicious but also nourishing.

Best of all, it’s incredibly flexible and forgiving, perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking to add a vegan twist to their meals. So next time you want to elevate a dish with a luxurious sauce, remember this recipe.

It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the earthy goodness of mushrooms while keeping your meals vegan and wholesome. Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Mushroom Sauce

Description: A creamy and savory vegan mushroom sauce perfect for pasta, rice, or vegetables. Made with simple ingredients for a rich and flavorful dish.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 10 oz (280g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup canned coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  3. Add mushrooms and cook until browned.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth and coconut milk, stir well.
  5. Add nutritional yeast, soy sauce, and thyme.
  6. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce.
  8. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until sauce thickens.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Serve warm over your favorite dish.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 12 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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