What can I use instead of dairy in Alfredo sauce?

You can replace dairy in Alfredo sauce with ingredients like soaked cashews, cauliflower puree, unsweetened plant-based milks (such as almond, oat, or cashew milk), and nutritional yeast for that savory, cheesy flavor. Olive oil or vegan butter also helps replicate the richness of dairy-based versions.

How do you make Alfredo sauce creamy without milk or cheese?

To make Alfredo sauce creamy without milk or cheese, use blended cashews or tofu for body, plant-based milk for fluidity, and nutritional yeast or garlic to build flavor. Simmer the blended mix on low heat to thicken naturally. Add a touch of lemon juice and olive oil for balance and silkiness.

What plant-based milks work best in Alfredo sauce?

The best plant-based milks for Alfredo sauce are: Cashew Milk – ultra-creamy and neutral in taste Oat Milk – slightly sweet and blends well Almond Milk – lighter, nutty, and great when paired with cashews or starches Avoid sweetened or vanilla-flavored varieties, as they can distort the flavor profile.

How can I thicken dairy-free Alfredo sauce naturally?

Natural thickeners include: Blended cashews or cauliflower Arrowroot or tapioca starch White beans or silken tofu Simmering the sauce to reduce moisture Each of these options adds both texture and nutrients without relying on gluten or processed thickeners.

Is dairy-free Alfredo sauce suitable for people with lactose intolerance?

Yes, dairy-free Alfredo sauce is completely suitable for people with lactose intolerance, as it contains no milk, cheese, or cream. It's also ideal for those avoiding dairy for ethical, allergy, or dietary reasons. Just double-check for hidden dairy in store-bought versions or use homemade for full control.

Dairy-Free Alfredo Sauce – The Best Creamy Recipe (2025)

Dairy-Free Alfredo Sauce Recipe

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A rich, creamy, and flavorful dairy-free Alfredo sauce made from wholesome ingredients like soaked cashews, garlic, and nutritional yeast. Perfect for pasta, pizza, and plant-based comfort meals. This easy, 20-minute vegan sauce is gluten-free, healthy, and loved by the whole family.

Author: Nia Yarden
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 3–4 servings
Category: Sauce
Method: Blending, Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, Vegan
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 cup raw cashews (soaked 2–4 hours or boiled 10 min)
1½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or oat/cashew milk)
3 tbsp nutritional yeast
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp ground black pepper
½ tsp onion powder (optional)

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Instructions

Soften Cashews: Drain soaked cashews or boil for 10 minutes if unsoaked.
Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium. Add garlic and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Blend: In a high-speed blender, combine cashews, plant milk, sautéed garlic, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Blend until smooth.
Simmer: Pour blended sauce into a saucepan over low-medium heat. Stir and simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.

Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve over pasta, veggies, or use as a sauce base for other dishes.

Notes

Use oat or coconut milk for a nut-free version.
Add spinach or mushrooms for a veggie-packed twist.
Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of plant milk.
Can be frozen in portions and thawed as needed.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. ½ cup)
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 1.2 g
Sodium: 410 mg
Fat: 17 g
Saturated Fat: 2.8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 13.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Fiber: 2.3 g
Protein: 6.8 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Find it online: https://www.nytrecipe.com/dairy-free-alfredo-sauce/