When craving something cheesy, rich, and indulgent, nacho cheese is often the first thing that comes to mind. But for those avoiding dairy, the good news is that there’s a plant-based version that’s just as creamy, satisfying, and snack-worthy. Vegan nacho cheese sauce delivers all the bold flavor and silky texture of the original, without any of the animal products.
What makes vegan nacho cheese sauce so impressive is how it transforms simple ingredients into something seriously craveable. A blend of cooked potatoes and carrots adds body and color, while soaked cashews bring creaminess. Nutritional yeast is the magic ingredient, offering that distinct cheesy flavor without any dairy. Garlic, lemon juice, spices, and a touch of mustard round everything out and give the sauce its tangy, savory kick.
One of the best things about this sauce is how versatile it is. Warm and pourable, it’s perfect for drizzling over tortilla chips, baked potatoes, steamed veggies, tacos, or grain bowls. Let it cool and thicken, and it becomes a fantastic spread for sandwiches, wraps, or quesadillas. It’s kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and great for anyone exploring plant-based eating, whether full-time or just for fun.
Vegan nacho cheese is also a healthier choice. It skips the saturated fats and preservatives found in traditional cheese sauces, making it a lighter option without sacrificing taste. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made nut-free as well, depending on the recipe.
Whether served at a game-day party, spooned onto a late-night snack, or stored in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week, vegan nacho cheese sauce is one of those recipes that earns a permanent place in any modern kitchen. Bold, creamy, and endlessly adaptable, it proves that going plant-based doesn’t mean giving up your favorite flavors. It just means making them smarter.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews soaked for at least 2 hours or overnight
- 1 cup water plus more for soaking
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric for color
- 1/2 cup water adjust for consistency
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the soaked cashews thoroughly.
- Add the cashews, 1 cup of water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, smoked paprika, and turmeric to a blender.
- Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, adding additional water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
- Pour the sauce into a saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring frequently, until heated through.
- Serve immediately with nachos or as a dip, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutrition
I never thought something with cashews could taste like cheese! Mind blown.
Right?! It’s like a total game changer! Who knew cashews could do that? 😍
This is not cheese! But still kinda tasty, I guess…
Yas! This is a lifesaver for game night snacks! Who needs dairy?
Not sure about the cashews. Why not just use regular cheese? 🤷♂️
But regular cheese isn’t vegan! Cashews make it creamy and delicious 😋
I dunno, seems weird to me. Cheese is cheese, why mess with it? 🤔
Honestly, I’m not a fan of nutritional yeast, so this wasn’t great for me.
SO good!! I literally can’t stop eating it. Just made it for the third time this week!
Wow! Third time this week? That’s impressive! I love how creamy it gets. Have you tried it on other things?
I tried this recipe, and it was kind of bland. Maybe add more spices next time?
I totally agree! I always add more spices to mine. It makes a big difference!
Really quick and easy to make! The kids loved it, and I loved that they were eating nuts.
Ugh, I burnt it! 😩 But I can see how it would be good if I didn’t mess it up.
This nacho cheese sauce is fantastic! I can’t believe it’s vegan!
Not for me. I mean, who wants cheese that’s not cheese? 🤷
Not everyone likes it, but I love vegan cheese! It’s creamy and good! 🌱
Dude, this is awesome! Can’t believe it’s vegan and tastes so good!
Pretty good! I used lemon juice from a bottle tho. Still worked. 🤷♂️ 4 stars.
I made this for my kids and they loved it! Way better than store-bought.
This is the best nacho cheese I’ve ever tried! The cashew base is genius!
It was ok, but I think it needs more spice. Didn’t taste much like cheese.
Maybe more salt? I think the flavors are there, just need a tweak.
I totally agree! I added jalapeños and it made a big difference!
Soak cashews? That seems weird. Can’t I just use cheese? 😕
Using cashews gives it that creamy texture that cheese just can’t match! It’s worth a try! 😊
I don’t like cashews so this was a no for me. Give me real cheese any day. 1 star.
Yum! My kids loved it! Finally a vegan recipe they enjoy. Will make again! 5 stars!
That’s awesome to hear! I’ve been looking for vegan options for my kids too. Can’t wait to try it!
Does anyone else think this looks like baby food? 😂 Tastes good tho, so whatever. 3 stars.
I only did 2 hours soaking. Didn’t know about overnight. Still turned out fine tho! 🙂
This was AMAZING! I can’t believe it’s vegan. Tastes like real cheese. Definitely a 5!
Is this really healthy? I can’t eat nuts, so can I use something else instead? 🤔
It was good, but the flavor was a bit off for my taste. Maybe too much garlic? 3 stars.
I think the garlic is a strong flavor, but maybe just use less next time? It’s still a great recipe!