Finding a good dairy-free cheese substitute used to feel impossible - most early versions were rubbery, flavorless, or simply didn't melt. Fortunately, the plant-based cheese game has dramatically improved with options that rival traditional cheese.
The secret to great dairy-free cheese lies in understanding what you need it to do. Are you looking for something to melt on pizza, add umami to pasta, or create a creamy sauce? Different substitutes excel in different applications.
After testing dozens of commercial and homemade alternatives, I've found the winners that will make you forget you're eating dairy-free. Here's your complete guide to choosing and using the best cheese substitutes.
The 3 Best Substitutes
1. Nutritional Yeast
Substitution Ratio
2-4 tablespoons per cup of grated cheese
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Start with small amounts - flavor is concentrated. Mix with salt and garlic powder.
2. Cashew Cheese (Homemade)
Substitution Ratio
1 cup soaked cashews + seasonings = ~1.5 cups cheese
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Soak cashews 4+ hours or use boiling water for 15 minutes. Add lemon juice and nutritional yeast.
3. Commercial Vegan Cheese
Substitution Ratio
1:1 replacement for dairy cheese
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Look for coconut oil-based brands for best melting. Store properly to maintain texture.