Creamy Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe for Pasta & Dips

Vegan Cheese Sauce — a american recipe (condiments and sauces) with 12 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.

Medium
Updated March 20, 2026

40

Total Time (min)

6

servings

205

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Creamy Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe for Pasta & Dips

Ingredients

Servings:
6
  • 1 cup cashews (soaked for at least 2 hours)
  • 1 cup nutritional yeast
  • 1 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (for color)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for richness)
  • 1 tablespoon mustard (for tanginess)

Instructions

5 steps

  1. Prepare Cashews

    Soak cashews in water for at least 2 hours, then drain.

    Soaking helps to achieve a creamy texture.
  2. Blend Ingredients

    In a blender, combine soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, water, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional ingredients.

    Blend until smooth and creamy; add more water if needed.
  3. Taste and Adjust

    Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon juice as desired.

    For a richer flavor, add olive oil.
  4. Heat the Sauce

    Transfer the blended mixture to a saucepan and heat over medium-low until warmed through.

    Stir continuously to prevent sticking.
  5. Serve

    Serve immediately over pasta, vegetables, or as a dip.

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Health: Sugar-Conscious, Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Mediterranean, DASH

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 3 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With

Complete your american meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Coleslaw
🍽️French fries or baked potatoes
🍽️Corn on the cob

About This Dish

Creamy Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe for Pasta & Dips is a beloved dish from American cuisine. With a total preparation time of about 40 minutes, it makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

American cuisine is a melting pot of flavors and traditions from around the world, shaped by the diverse cultures that make up the nation. From hearty comfort food to innovative modern dishes.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 12 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, almonds or macadamia nuts can be used, but the flavor will vary.

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Nutrition Facts

6 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories150kcal
Total Fat10gg
Sodium200mgmg
Total Carbohydrates8gg
Dietary Fiber1gg
Total Sugars1gg
Protein6gg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineAmerican