Nacho cheese is a beloved topping that adds creamy, cheesy, and indulgent flavor to countless dishes. For vegans and those with nut allergies, finding a delicious, dairy-free, and cashew-free nacho cheese can be a challenge.
But fear not! This casheeless vegan nacho cheese recipe is here to revolutionize your snack game.
Made with wholesome, accessible ingredients, it’s creamy, savory, and melts beautifully on chips, tacos, and more.
Whether you’re hosting a game day party or craving a guilt-free snack, this recipe is quick, easy, and adaptable. You won’t miss the cashews or dairy at all!
Plus, it’s packed with nutritional benefits and free from common allergens, making it a perfect addition to your vegan recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casheeless vegan nacho cheese is a game-changer for anyone looking to avoid nuts but still enjoy that classic cheesy goodness. It’s:
- Nut-free and allergen-friendly — perfect for those with nut allergies or sensitivities.
- Rich and creamy thanks to the combination of nutritional yeast, potatoes, and carrots.
- Simple to make with pantry staples and minimal prep time.
- Customizable — spice it up or tone it down to suit your taste buds.
- Versatile — great on nachos, as a dip, or drizzled over veggies and tacos.
Ingredients
- 1 cup peeled and diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 1/2 cup peeled and diced carrots
- 1/3 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup refined coconut oil (melted)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant milk (almond, oat, or soy)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for added warmth)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Blender or high-speed food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula or spoon
- Serving bowl or storage container
Instructions
- Cook the vegetables: Place the diced potatoes and carrots in a medium saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until both are soft and easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain and cool slightly: Drain the cooked potatoes and carrots well. Let them cool for a few minutes to avoid damaging your blender with hot ingredients.
- Blend the base: Transfer the potatoes and carrots to your blender or food processor. Add the nutritional yeast, melted refined coconut oil, and plant milk.
- Add flavorings: Pour in the lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, black pepper, cumin, and cayenne pepper if using.
- Blend until smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Depending on your blender, you may need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times.
- Adjust consistency: If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a little more plant milk and blend again until you reach your desired pourable, dip-like consistency.
- Taste and tweak: Taste your nacho cheese and adjust seasoning as needed — add more salt, lemon juice, or spices to suit your preferences.
- Serve warm: Pour over your favorite tortilla chips, steamed veggies, or use as a dip. For best results, keep warm or reheat gently before serving.
- Store leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of plant milk if needed to loosen.
Tips & Variations
“Use refined coconut oil to avoid the coconut flavor in your nacho cheese. If you only have unrefined, the taste will be more tropical but still delicious!”
- Spice it up: Add extra cayenne or chipotle powder for smoky heat.
- Make it creamier: Stir in 2 tablespoons of vegan mayonnaise or silken tofu for extra richness.
- Try different veggies: Swap carrots with sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a slightly sweeter taste.
- Use fresh garlic and onion: Lightly sauté minced garlic and onions and blend them into the sauce for deeper flavor.
- Boost umami: Add a splash of tamari or soy sauce for savory depth.
- Thicken with tapioca starch: For a stretchy, melty cheese texture, mix 1 tablespoon of tapioca starch with plant milk and heat gently until thickened before blending.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/4 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 kcal |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Vitamin A | 70% DV |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This casheeless vegan nacho cheese is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Pour generously over crunchy tortilla chips for classic nachos.
- Drizzle on steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus.
- Use as a creamy sauce in vegan tacos or burritos.
- Spread on baked potatoes or sweet potatoes.
- Serve as a dip for pretzels, veggie sticks, or crackers.
Looking for more vegan meal inspiration? Check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe and Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for flavorful plant-based dishes.
Conclusion
This casheeless vegan nacho cheese recipe proves you don’t need nuts or dairy to create a rich, creamy, and flavorful cheese sauce. With simple ingredients like potatoes, carrots, nutritional yeast, and spices, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes that will satisfy any cheesy craving.
It’s perfect for those with allergies, vegans, or anyone seeking a healthier, homemade alternative to store-bought cheese sauces.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a dip, sauce, or topping, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with the spices and add-ins to create your perfect version.
For more delicious recipes and kitchen inspiration, explore our collection like the hearty Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious, allergen-friendly nacho cheese!
📖 Recipe Card: Casheeless Vegan Nacho Cheese
Description: A creamy, dairy-free nacho cheese sauce made without cashews, using simple plant-based ingredients. Perfect for dipping or drizzling over your favorite snacks.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup peeled and diced potatoes
- 1/4 cup peeled and diced carrots
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon 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)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Boil potatoes and carrots until soft, about 10 minutes.
- Drain and transfer to a blender.
- Add nutritional yeast, almond milk, olive oil, lemon juice, and spices.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve warm as a dip or sauce.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 6g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 22g
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