Can’t do dairy but LOVE queso? Then try this incredible dairy free nacho cheese! Rich, creamy and silky smooth, it’s fantastic served with tons of tortilla chips OR used as a sauce for meals. Easy to make, packed with flavor and ready in 10 minutes or less, it’s also vegan and gluten free.

One of my FAVORITE dishes to order at mexican restaurants before going dairy free? 

A giant vat of queso + loads and loads of tortilla chips. 

But when you can no longer eat any kind of dairy, that appetizer is a big fat no go.

Which brings us to today. And this dreamy dairy free nacho cheese. 

That’s so darn delicious I promise you won’t even think about that restaurant queso ever again. Bold statement, I know.

Here’s why I think you’ll love it:

• It’s rich, creamy and silky smooth.
• It’s made with a few simple ingredients in 10 minutes or less.
• And it’s filled with warm spices + just the right amount of “cheesy” flavor.

Even my cheese-eating family members couldn’t keep their paws off this dip. It’s just that good! 

How To Make Dairy Free Nacho Cheese

So, let’s chat about how this simple sauce goes down:

Soak cashews. First up, we’ll soak some cashews overnight (or use a 30 minute quick soak method).

Add everything to a blender. Next, we’ll drain and rinse the cashews, then add to a blender along with some almond milk, spices, vinegar, hot sauce and dijon.

Process until smooth. We’ll blend it all up for about 1 to 2 minutes, until completely smooth and creamy.

Stir in diced tomatoes. Finally, we’ll stir in some optional drained diced tomatoes, for that queso-like feel. 

You can enjoy right away or warm slightly before using. 

How To Serve

Need some ideas for how to put this dreamy sauce to good use? I got you covered.

• go classic and serve with lots of tortilla chips
• use on dairy free nachos
• drizzle over baked potatoes
• toss with pasta for a sort of southwest mac and cheese
• use as a dip for fries or sweet potato fries
• or as a sauce for tacos or taco bowls 

Side note – depending on how you’re planning to use this nacho cheese, you can omit the optional diced tomatoes (i.e. if you don’t want that slightly chunky texture). I always use them but you do you!

Tips & Tricks

1. If you forget to soak your cashews overnight, use the following quick soak method instead. Add the cashews to a heatproof bowl, then cover with boiling water. Let soak for 30 minutes to 1 hour, then proceed with the recipe.
2. I HIGHLY recommend using a high speed blender as the cashews will blend up so smooth and creamy. You can certainly try using a regular one, just keep in mind it will take longer to smooth out and won’t have quite as perfect of a consistency (I’ve found cashew based sauces can be a bit grainy in texture with a regular blender).
3. If you don’t want any kick in your sauce, be sure to use MILD diced tomatoes with green chilis (versus regular). Additionally, you can omit the hot sauce if desired, although I find it really just adds an extra layer of flavor rather than heat.
4. The sauce will thicken up ever so slightly if you choose to warm it before serving. If needed, whisk in a little extra almond milk or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. 

How To Store

Fridge: The nacho cheese will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 5 days.

Additional Dairy Free Sauces You Might Enjoy:

• Dairy Free Alfredo Sauce
• Dairy Free Sour Cream
• Dairy Free Pesto (3 Ways!)
• Homemade Thai Peanut Sauce
• Easy Peach Chipotle BBQ Sauce
• Homemade Enchilada Sauce
• Dairy Free Avocado Dressing

Did you make this recipe? Rate and review it down below! I’d love to hear from you.