Brand New Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe That Everyone Loves

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Welcome to the ultimate guide for a brand new vegan cheese sauce recipe that’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking to add a delicious dairy-free twist to your meals, this sauce is a game-changer.

Made from wholesome plant-based ingredients, it provides the rich and cheesy taste you crave without any artificial additives or processed cheese substitutes. From drizzling over roasted veggies to melting perfectly on your favorite pasta or nachos, this sauce is versatile and packed with nutrition.

Forget the bland vegan cheese sauces of the past. This recipe highlights the perfect balance of tanginess, creaminess, and a hint of nuttiness that will impress even the most dedicated cheese lovers.

Plus, it’s ready in under 20 minutes! Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and get you started on making your own irresistible vegan cheese sauce today.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan cheese sauce is a kitchen staple that combines simplicity and flavor in one luscious package. Here’s why it will quickly become your favorite:

  • Rich and Creamy Texture: Thanks to cashews and nutritional yeast, it has a smooth consistency that mimics traditional cheese sauces perfectly.
  • Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with plant-based protein, vitamins, and minerals, it’s a wholesome choice without the guilt.
  • Allergen-Friendly: Free from dairy, gluten, and soy, making it suitable for many dietary needs.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 20 minutes with minimal cleanup.
  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add herbs to suit your taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 15 minutes)
  • 3/4 cup water (plus more as needed)
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for that cheesy flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color and subtle earthiness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra richness)

Equipment

  • High-speed blender or food processor
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Heatproof bowl (for soaking cashews)
  • Saucepan (optional, if warming sauce)
  • Spatula
  • Storage container (for leftovers)

Instructions

  1. Soak the cashews: Place raw cashews in a heatproof bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for about 15 minutes to soften. Drain and rinse before use.
  2. Add ingredients to blender: Combine the soaked cashews, 3/4 cup water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and olive oil in your blender or food processor.
  3. Blend until smooth: Start blending on low speed and gradually increase to high. Blend for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes silky and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
  4. Taste and adjust: Sample your sauce and adjust seasoning as needed—add more salt, lemon juice, or spices to suit your preference.
  5. Warm the sauce (optional): Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and warm over low heat for 3-5 minutes if you prefer a heated sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
  6. Serve immediately or store: Use the sauce right away or let it cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips & Variations

“For the creamiest sauce, always soak your cashews thoroughly. If you’re in a rush, hot water soaking works well, but soaking overnight in cold water yields the best texture.”

  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
  • Herb infused: Blend in fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or basil for a fresh flavor twist.
  • Nut-free option: Substitute cashews with cooked white beans or cauliflower for a creamy base without nuts.
  • Smoky BBQ sauce: Increase smoked paprika and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke for a smoky BBQ-style cheese sauce.
  • Extra thick dip: Use less water and chill the sauce for a firm texture perfect for dipping veggies or crackers.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1/4 cup)
Calories 140 kcal
Fat 11 g
Saturated Fat 1.5 g
Carbohydrates 7 g
Fiber 1.5 g
Protein 5 g
Vitamin B12 (from nutritional yeast) 2.4 mcg (100% DV)
Vitamin C (from lemon juice) 3 mg (5% DV)
Calcium 20 mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan cheese sauce is incredibly versatile and can transform many dishes into comforting delights. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

  • Drizzle over steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts for a cheesy boost.
  • Pour over pasta for a quick, dairy-free mac and cheese alternative. For another pasta sauce inspiration, check out our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe.
  • Use as a dip for chips, fresh veggies, or pretzels.
  • Top your baked potatoes with this sauce along with chives and vegan sour cream for a hearty meal.
  • Mix into casseroles or grain bowls to add moisture and flavor.

For more creative dairy-free treats, you might also love our Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe or our indulgent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe.

Conclusion

Creating a delicious, creamy vegan cheese sauce doesn’t have to be complicated or rely on processed ingredients. This brand new recipe uses simple pantry staples like cashews and nutritional yeast to deliver a sauce that’s rich, flavorful, and adaptable to many dishes.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, this sauce is sure to impress your taste buds and elevate your meals.

The best part is how quick it is to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite spices and herbs for endless variations.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a healthier, tastier alternative to traditional cheese sauces. Don’t forget to explore other fantastic recipes on our site to complement this sauce and broaden your culinary repertoire!

📖 Recipe Card: Brand New Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe

Description: A creamy, dairy-free cheese sauce perfect for pasta, nachos, or veggies. Made with cashews and nutritional yeast for a rich, cheesy flavor.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2 hours)
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse soaked cashews.
  2. Combine all ingredients in a blender until smooth.
  3. Pour mixture into a saucepan over medium heat.
  4. Cook, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens (about 10 minutes).
  5. Adjust seasoning to taste and remove from heat.
  6. Serve warm over your favorite dishes.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 6g | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 8g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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