You will love this vegan nacho cheese sauce recipe if you like it cheesy. Made from only vegetables, it is fat-free and oil-free. Dip your favorite tortilla chips, make mac and cheese, add it to your favorite dip made with cheese, or layer in an enchilada casserole. The possibilities are endless.
I struggled with giving up cheese when I transitioned to a plant-based diet. The only time I ever swayed from a plant-based plan initially involved cheese. But, back then, vegan cheese products tasted vile and certainly didn't melt. So, I went on a mission to make a vegan nacho cheese sauce with vegetables that tasted like cheese. My vegan nacho cheese sauce tastes so good that even you will be fooled.
Jump to:
Before healthy eating and eating plant-based, my mom used to make a nacho cheese sauce from Velveeta cheese and Rotel tomatoes.
Of course, it was my favorite nacho cheese dip for tortilla chips. At the time, however, I didn't know anything about nutrition or that Vetvetta wasn't even food.
Since then, I've developed a vegan nacho cheese sauce recipe with various variations. And my nacho cheese sauce is made with only vegetables and some seasoning.
I wouldn't eat Velveeta again if you paid me, but I had an epiphany today about how to give my 'cheese' sauce the little kick it needed, and it worked!
Although many vegan 'cheese' sauce recipes are made from potatoes and carrots, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or white beans, I wanted to make an oil-free nacho "cheese" sauce that could adapt to a lot of different recipes.
Also, I planned to use that base recipe to make different flavored vegan cheese sauce recipes for other dishes.
Vegan Nacho Cheese Sauce Ingredients
- Idaho potatoes: Cooked baking potatoes have very high levels of umami compounds, molecules that stimulate a "pleasant savory taste" in most plant food sources.
- Carrots: Overall, the characteristic flavor descriptors for carrots are sweet, woody, and earthy, with a noticeable harshness.
- Nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast has a unique savory flavor that resembles cheese, making it an excellent alternative for adding flavor without salt, sugar, or fat. Some people say it adds a nutty flavor to foods.
- Lemon juice: Lemon juice has a tangy, sour, or acidic flavor. It has a tart and tart taste because of its low pH.
- Onion powder: Onion powder is dehydrated, ground onion that is commonly used as a seasoning.
- Garlic powder: Garlic powder adds an intense, concentrated garlic flavor to a recipe, while garlic cloves offer a slightly subtler flavor
- Paprika: Domestic paprika is characteristically mild, sweet and vegetable-like.
- Vegetable broth: The vegetable broth thins the cheese sauce and adds flavor as well.
- Soy sauce: soy sauce is packed with umami and contains a substantial amount of salt.
- Jalapeno: Jalapenos are actually very mild compared to other peppers. However, always wear gloves and remove the seeds and veins from the jalapeno before adit's to the recipe.
- Hot sauce: I used Cholula, but any hot sauce is fine.
- Water: The water thins the vegan nacho cheese sauce.
Vegan Nacho Cheese Ingredient Substitutions
- Any potatoes work with this cheese sauce, but they needs to be peeled.
- Buying baby carrots already peeled and cutting them in half saves some prep time.
- Use fresh garlic and onion if you don't have the powders on hanit'sAdd smoked paprika for a smokier flavor.
- Use tamari or liquid aminos for a gluten-freee option.
How to Make Vegan Cheese Sauce
All you need to make this easy cheesy sauce is a high-speed blender. Then, ensure the potatoes and carrots are the exact sizes, so they boil evenly.
- Once boiled and drained, combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
- Next, scrape down the sides and blend again to ensure the cheese sauce is the texture for a sauce that is worth being poured on nachos, inside a sandwich or is perfect for your favorite tortilla chips.
Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe Variations
Not only is this sauce delicious, but it's also a great addition to a baked potato on top of broccoli, and kids LOVE it!
First, the beauty of this vegan nacho cheese sauce is the variety of ways you can kids'e its flavor by changing just a few ingredients.
- Smokey Vegan Cheese Sauce: remove the jalapeno from the recipe and add 2 teaspoons of liquid smoke.
- Plain Vegan Cheese Sauce: remove the jalapeno, and it's the perfect sauce for a Healthy Mac and Cheese.
- Spicy Vegan Cheese Sauce: add 1 adobo chili pepper and 1 teaspoon of sauce from the can
- Copycat Spicy Velveta Dip: add 1 9 ounces can of Rotel Tomatoes with green chili (pick your heat: mild, medium, or hot)
Recipe Suggestions
- One way to use the vegan nacho cheese sauce is to make a mustard cheese dip for pretzels or vegetables by adding a little water and some yellow mustard.
- If you aren't a mustard fan, add a little of your favorite beer for beer cheese.
- I also use vegan nacho cheese dip as a base for my favorite vegan spinach artichoke dip. This recipe is a family favorite, and I also bring it to parties.
- Or, use vegan nacho cheese sauce for vegan chili mac, which is one of my kids' favorite meals.
- And vegan nacho cheese sauce recipe is also used for the base cheese sauce in my crunchwrap supreme recipe, one of my personal favorites. So, make healthy Mexican food at home instead of going to Taco Bell.
- Regardless of what you plan to make, vegan nacho cheese dip can transform any cheesy meal. Make a large amount of base cheese sauce beforehand, and add that unique flavor for whatever occasion you choose.
- Or, add it to your recipes with cheese as the main ingredient. You won't be disappointed.
Recipe FAQs
Yes. You can freeze skinny nacho cheese sauce in an airtight container like a zipped bag or jar.
Homemade skinny nacho cheese sauce usually lasts 4 to 6 daysisn'tong as it's kept in an airtight container.
Well, it tastesdon't cheese, of course, but a tasty, healthy versiIt'sade from plants.
Tips
- Cut the carrots and potatoes the same size so they cook at the same rate and time.
- Peel both the carrots and the potatoes for the best results.
- Use a fork to pierce through the potatoes and carrots to ensure they are done cooking, as larger cut pieces take longer.
- Use Tamari or liquid aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Try various options by adding different spices and herbs to make different versions of the sauce.
There isn't a carnivore alive that would have any idea vegan nacho cheese sauce isn't the real deal, and it happens to be oil-free and virtually fat-free. So, give it a try, and don't tell those plant-based skeptics the truth. It's our little secret.
Other Great Vegan Sauce Recipes
If you love this vegan nacho cheese sauce recipe, give us a 5-star review and comment below. We would love to hear from you.
📖 Recipe
The Best Vegan Nacho Cheese Sauce
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce: 2-2/12 cups (depends on how cheesy you like it)
- 3 small Idaho potatoes washed, scrubbed, skin left on cut into similar sized chunks (3 cups)
- 3 large carrots peeled and cut into equal-sized pieces to the potatoes (2 cups)
- 1 jalapeno deseeded and diced
- ½ cup nutritional yeast
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 Tablespoon paprika
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 Tablespoon Tamari liquid aminos, or soy sauce
- ½ cup water
- 1 Tablespoon hot sauce I used Cholula
Instructions
- Wash three averaged sized potatoes; cut into large chunks (leave skins on potatoes)
- Clean and cut three large carrots and chop them the same size as potatoes
- Place in a pot and cover with water
- Add a few sprinkles of salt to the water.
- Boil for 20 minutes
- While potatoes are boiling, put the vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, jalapeno, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, hot sauce, and soy sauce in a blender.
- Drain potatoes and carrots
- Put potatoes and carrots into a blender; blend until smooth
- The mixture will be thick; add water.
- Transfer ‘cheese’ mixture into a medium-sized saucepan.
- I use the sauce on top of grilled fajita burritos, or you can serve with chips, or on top of a potato, broccoli, or anything else you like cheesy.
Notes
- Cut the potatoes and carrots into equal sizes so they cook evenly.
- Use a fork to test if carrots and potatoes are cooked through before adding them to a blender.
- Smokey Vegan Cheese Sauce: remove the jalapeno from the recipe and add 2 teaspoons of liquid smoke.
- Plain Vegan Cheese Sauce: remove the jalapeno, and it's the perfect sauce for a Healthy Mac and Cheese.
- Spicy Vegan Cheese Sauce: add 1 adobo chili pepper and 1 teaspoon of sauce from the can
- Copycat Spicy Velveta Dip: add 1 9 ounces can of Rotel Tomatoes with green chili (pick your heat: mild, medium, or hot)
Nutrition
Hi! My name is Kathy, I am a retired high school English teacher & vegan enthusiast and blogger. My entire blog is fully plant-based vegan. I truly believe what we eat & how we live determines our health & the preservation of our planet! 🙂
Brynda
This is wonderful cheese sauce, my only complaint is that it makes sooo much. I will cut the recipe in 1/2 next time I think. Unless you think I can freeze it??? Thoughts?
Kathy Carmichael
Brynda, It does make a lot, but you can freeze it. Thaw baths overnight in the refrigerator. You will need to reblend and reheat before serving.
Clare
I wonder if you could swap out potatoes and use sweet potatoes?
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Clare, yes, you can, but it is much sweeter and less savory. It all depends on what flavor you prefer.
Debra
I have two questions. First, the tips section says to peel the potatoes. The recipe clearly says to leave the peels on.
Second: The recipe says to transfer 'cheese' mixture into a medium-sized saucepan, but then ends and doesn't say if you are to heat it or simmer, etc.
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Debra, I leave the skins on for extra nutrients, but you can peel them. Heating depends on whether your blender heats when it blends (Vitamix does that). You need to heat it, not simmer it for any time. You may reheat it in a pan or the microwave. It also freezes well. Sorry for the confusion.
Debra
Thank you for your quick answer. I’m sorry I was frustrated. I really appreciate you posting recipes on-line. I made the nacho sauce and it is great!
Kathy Carmichael
Debra, I appreciate you letting me know it is confusing. It helps me to clarify the directions so it doesn't happen to others. I'm glad you enjoyed the cheese sauce.
Kim
Hi Kathy - any thoughts on how long this can be stored?
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Kim, it lasts a week in the refrigerator, but you can freeze it for up to 3 months. I suggest allowing it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then blending it. You may have to add a little plant milk or water.
Nan
Hi Kathy. After 10. Transfer to a saucepan - then what? I’m making this now - help! Thanks!!
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Nan, sorry. I just saw this now. Transfer to a pan to heat. If you use the cheese sauce for the nachos recipe, it will heat in the oven or the blender if your blender has a heating component.
Patty
Love, love, love,! I am familiar with using cashews. I prefer this much more! I used to serrano chile because I had one on hand. Prepping for the week and can’t wait to think of all that anyways I can use this! Thank you so much
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Patty, I'm so glad you like the cheese sauce. I make a big batch and use it for nachos, macaroni, and cheese, and the kids love it over broccoli! You can also make chili mac or scalloped potatoes!
Julie Van Den Brandt
I’m struggling because I have recently found out I’m sensitive to yeast ( all kinds) and chickpeas and tomatoes ( among other things). Is there anything else besides the nutrition yeast that could be used in your cheese sauces?
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Julie, yes, there are many options to replace nutritional yeast. Soy sauce or liquid aminos, white miso paste, cashews, sunflower seeds,
vegetable bouillon and dried porcini mushrooms are all replacements for nutritional yeast.
Ronnie Childs
Okay, your mom used Velveeta; mine used Cheez Whiz. What I wouldn't give for a casserole she would make for me, of rice, broccoli, cream-of-celery soup, and Cheez Whiz. I just loved it. I realize there is no ingredient that can touch a mother's love.
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Ronnie, actually, I use this recipe for casseroles with rice, potatoes, and broccoli and it's fabulous. I am working on cream of celery soup, so stay tuned 🙂
Shannon
Did you make the cream of celery soup yet? I would love to use it in a casserole I used to make.
Kathy Carmichael
Shannon, I have not made a cream of celery soup, but I will put it on the list of things to try to make. Thank you for the suggestion.
Shannon
Sounds good! I saw that you told someone you were working on a cream of celery soup so I got excited 😊
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Shannon, I am; however, it isn't quite right.
Jennifer
My carnivore didn't even guess the "nacho sauce" was not made with cheese. Gobbled it all up and complimented me on it. 😊😉 I guess I didn’t need to worry about freezing any. Have you posted serving size and calories per serving anywhere? Or approximations?
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Jennifer, the calories per serving are at the bottom of the recipe card. I'm so glad you liked the "cheese" sauce. Your secret is safe with me 🙂
Maria Masterson
I am also looking for the calorie estimation. I don't see a recipe card.
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Maria, the nutritional information is at the bottom of the recipe card at the bottom of the post. There must have been a glitch. Thank you for letting me know. I appreciate it.
Nancy
Hello! I made your crunchwraps and we really enjoyed them! I'm wondering if I did something wrong though, I followed the recipe exactly for the nacho cheese and it whereas the consistency was great, it didn't even enter the neighborhood of tasting "cheesy." It tasted like a carrot-sauce. I measured and put in the 3 cups of boiled potatoes and 2 cups of boiled carrots as well as everything else. Any ideas? Should I cut the amount of carrots?
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Nancy I'm sorry your cheese sauce didn't come out cheesy. I've never had that happen, or have I even asked a lot of carrot, so I am going to say yes, reduce the amount of carrots. Did you use thee nutritional yeast and the other seasonings and added flavors?
Linda M. Jardee
What can you use in place of the nutritional yeast. May have a problem finding it. Thanks!
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Linda, nutritional yeast supplies the cheesy, salty taste in cheese. But, 2-3 teaspoons Brewer's yeast (slightly bitter),
2-3 teaspoons yeast extract or a little soy sauce (Tamari for gluten-free) are suggested replacements. I order my nutritional yeast on Amazon because it's difficult to find at my local stores as well. Whole Foods carries nutritional yeast if you have a store in your area. I hope this helps.
MaryAnn
I always find nutritional yeast in Walmart. I was amazed to find it there.
Kathy Carmichael
MaryAnn, It's everywhere now. I think this vegan thing is catching on 🙂
Lauren
Can you use sweet potatoes for this? I am currently on a cleanse that does not allow white potatoes.
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Lauren, I honestly don't know. I think it would make it sweeter, but I've never tried it. If you do make it with sweet potatoes, please let me know if its good. I would love to try it.
Maria
I just made this and didn't realize how much it is!! It is really good by the way. Can I freeze it? If so, what is the best way to do so? How long will it last in the fridge?
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Maria, the nacho cheese will last about 5 days in the refrigerator. You can freeze it. I suggest leaving a 1/2 inch between the top and the fill line to make sure you don't get freezer burn. When you plan to use it, make sure it thaws completely before you reheat it. Sometimes, I separate it and make different cheese flavors before I serve it, such as a smokey sauce with liquid smoke, or a mustard cheese sauce by adding yellow mustard. I'm so glad you liked it. Thank you for reaching out.
Cathy Grant
Yes, that helps! Thank you!
Kathy Carmichael
Let me know if you like it! Stay safe and healthy 🙂
NDF92
I have found the cutting board addition Daiya melts and tastes better than the original. It’s definitely an acquired taste. Their American slices make the best grilled cheese sandwiches!
Kathy Carmichael
Nicole, I have never seen those. I will definitely have to try them.
Catherine Grant
Hello! Could you give a weight estimate for the potatoes and carrots please?
Thank you!
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Catherine, I have never actually weighed them, but it is about 3 cups of each if that helps.
Kaelan
Can you make this without the yeast?
Kathy Carmichael
Kaelan, yes you can make it without the nutritional yeast. It gives it an added cheesy taste, but if you don't like it, just leave it out.
Joe C
Hey - just tried this sauce to include in your Crunchwrap recipe - it’s amazing! Any recommendations on storage? Wondering how long it will last and whether it will last longer by freezing, as the recipe calls for more “cheese” than we need!
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Joe, It lasts 5 days in the refrigerator or you can freeze it. if you freeze it, however, I suggest letting it thaw completely before reheating it. Also, leave about an inch of air between the top of the container and the cheese sauce to avoid getting freezer burn. I'm glad you like it. The sauce is great for noodles (mac and cheese) or on top of vegetables. It usually doesn't last long in my house. 🙂
Victoria
Is it possible to make this with red potatoes?
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Victoria, yes it is possible to make the nacho cheese sauce with red potatoes. Just make sure you boil them long enough so they are soft. Let me know if you enjoy the sauce. Stay safe and healthy!
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Victoria, you can use red potatoes, but baking potatoes are a bit more starchy, so the sauce will turn out a little thinner. It tastes just as yummy though. I hope this helps. Let me know if you like the recipe.
Cathryn Hutton
I have just made your Cheese Sauce pretty much exactly as written (although being in Australia getting Idaho potatoes was unrealistic). My sauce was really yummy but more like a thick soup than a sauce. I even ended up putting some tapioca flour to it in an attempt to get a more "cheese" consistency. Any suggestions as to how I could improve it? Great site - often cook your recipes.
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Cathryn, if you are looking for a more elastically cheese, like for a sandwich, I would suggest adding 2 teaspoons of agar agar, when heating after blending. Agar-agar or just agar in culinary circles is a vegetarian gelatin substitute produced from seaweed. When the agar powder is dissolved in a liquid in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, brought to a boil, and then simmered until slightly thickened for about five to seven minutes. Then, it's chilled in the refrigerator until set and eaten cold as sliced cheese, or you can use it for a sandwich. I hope this answers your question. Stay safe and healthy.
Paulette
I’m looking forward to trying your recipe but was wondering why you transfer the mixture to a sauce pan on the last step. Thanks for the clarification!
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Paulette, I usually reheat the cheese since I allow it to cool a bit, so I don't burn my hands when blending the ingredients in the blender. Depending on the recipe you are using it for, it may need to be heated. Also, depending on the size of your blender, I blend in batches and return it to the pan. And, I usually make a double batch and separate it and make different flavors, such as smokey cheese sauce by adding liquid smoke or making it spicier by adding ancho chili peppers. I hope this answers your question. Let me know if you enjoy the recipe. Stay safe and healthy.
Simone
Just made the skinny nacho cheese sauce and am now enjoying a yummy bowl of nacho mac n cheese. It's taken me some time to get to the stage of being able to truly enjoy a cheese replacement and every mouth full is bliss. I will be making this regularly. Thank you 🙂
Kathy Carmichael
Simone, I am so glad you liked it. And I appreciate the feedback. Please let me know if you try any other recipes. I love to know what works and what doesn't and if you give it your own personal touch. Thank you!
Brenda
I am new to vegan lifestyle and excited to try this cheese sauce. I have seen “Daiya” cheese shreds and wonder if you have tried them. I do think your cheese sauce appears to use much healthier ingredients.
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Brenda, I have tried Daiya, and I am not a fan. As far as store-bought vegan cheese goes, I like Follow Your Heart Slices (shreds aren't as good). I also like Violife vegan cheese. Let me know if you like it 🙂