Dairy-Free Nachos with Queso

These dairy-free nachos are a delicious and satisfying twist on a classic favorite, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a snack. The creamy queso sauce is rich and flavorful, without any dairy ingredients.

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TIME20 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

Queso: 2 cups silken tofu 1 (15 ounce) can sliced carrots, drained 2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix 2 teaspoons nutritional yeast 2 teaspoons onion powder 2 teaspoons garlic powder 2 tablespoons oil, or more as needed 1 (12 ounce) package vegetarian beef crumbles 1 (13 ounce) package tortilla chips

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by tossing the tofu, carrots, taco seasoning, nutritional yeast, onion powder, and garlic powder into a blender or food processor. Blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy. Pour the queso mixture into a small saucepan and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s nice and hot—this should take about 5 to 10 minutes. While the queso is heating up, warm some oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the vegetarian crumbles and cook, stirring frequently, until they’re nicely browned, which usually takes 8 to 10 minutes. When everything is ready, pile some tortilla chips on plates, spoon over the cooked crumbles, and drizzle with the warm queso. Enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use a good-quality dairy-free cheese or make your own cashew-based queso for the best flavor.
- Warm the queso gently over low heat to prevent it from separating or becoming grainy.
- Add a squeeze of lime or a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance the depth of flavor.

Why you’ll love it

This dish is creamy and flavorful without any dairy, making it perfect for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. It’s a great way to enjoy classic comfort food while keeping it light and healthy. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

Serving ideas

Serve with fresh salsa, guacamole, and a handful of chopped cilantro for a bright contrast. This goes well with a side of black beans or a simple green salad to balance the richness. For added texture, sprinkle some diced jalapeños or crunchy tortilla strips on top.

Storage & leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the queso smooth. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change after thawing.