When it comes to comfort food, few things hit the spot quite like a warm bowl of queso. This Vegan Queso (Dairy Free Queso Recipe) is not only creamy and delicious, but it’s also entirely plant-based! Made with simple ingredients, this queso is perfect for dipping, drizzling, or just spooning straight from the bowl. Whether you’re hosting a game night, throwing a taco party, or simply craving a cozy snack, this recipe will become your go-to.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Rich and creamy texture that mimics traditional queso.
Cheesy flavor from nutritional yeast without any dairy.
Quick and easy to prepare in just a few minutes.
Versatile for serving with chips, veggies, or drizzled over tacos.
Complete with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.

What You’ll Gather

2 cups raw, unsalted cashews – soaked in water for 5-24 hours and drained.
1 cup Bob’s Red Mill Nutritional Yeast – for that cheesy flavor.
1 cup unsweetened almond milk – for a creamy consistency.
2 teaspoons coarse sea salt – to enhance the flavors.
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice – to add a zesty touch.
1 teaspoon chili powder – for a hint of spice.
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro – plus more for garnish.
10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chiles (1 can, drained) – for added texture and flavor.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

High-speed blender – for a smooth and creamy queso.
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Mixing bowl – for combining and serving.
Spatula – to scrape down the sides of the blender.

Stepwise Method: Vegan Queso (Dairy Free Queso Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare the Cashews

Begin by soaking the raw cashews in water for at least 5 hours, or up to 24 hours for a creamier texture. Once soaked, drain and rinse them thoroughly. This step is crucial as it softens the cashews, making them easy to blend and resulting in a silky smooth queso.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

In your high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, unsweetened almond milk, coarse sea salt, fresh lime juice, and chili powder. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides a couple of times to ensure everything is well mixed.

Step 3: Add the Fresh Ingredients

Once your base is creamy, add the chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes with green chiles. Pulse a few times to incorporate these ingredients, leaving some texture for a more authentic queso experience.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Give your queso a taste test. Depending on your preference, you might want to add more lime juice or salt. Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder if you like it hotter.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your delicious Vegan Queso to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or drizzled over your favorite dishes like tacos or burritos.

Swap Guide

For a nut-free version, try using sunflower seeds instead of cashews.
Swap out the almond milk for any other non-dairy milk like soy or oat milk.
If you prefer a less spicy queso, omit the chili powder or use a mild variety.
For a richer flavor, experiment with adding smoked paprika or cumin.

Little Things that Matter

The key to a successful Vegan Queso (Dairy Free Queso Recipe) lies in the quality of your ingredients. Using fresh herbs and high-quality nutritional yeast can significantly enhance the flavor profile. Additionally, allow your queso to cool slightly before serving; it thickens as it cools, making it even more perfect for dipping.

Experiment with different herbs—fresh basil or chives can provide a unique twist!
For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a tablespoon of coconut cream.

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking. If the queso thickens too much during storage, you can add a splash of almond milk to bring back its creamy consistency.

Quick Q&A

Can I make this queso ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the queso a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick reheat before serving.

Is this queso spicy?

The level of spice can be adjusted based on your preference. The chili powder adds a mild heat, but feel free to omit it or adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I freeze Vegan Queso?

While it is possible to freeze the queso, the texture may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, be prepared for a slightly different consistency when you reheat it.

What can I serve with this queso?

This Vegan Queso (Dairy Free Queso Recipe) pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or can be drizzled over tacos, burritos, or nachos. You can also use it as a base for a delicious vegan macaroni and cheese!

In Closing

Creating a satisfying and creamy Vegan Queso (Dairy Free Queso Recipe) at home is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. Impress your friends and family with this delightful snack that proves plant-based eating can be indulgent and delicious. Enjoy the burst of flavors, the smooth texture, and the endless ways to serve this queso. Whether you’re dipping, drizzling, or devouring by the spoonful, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!