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Home » Recipes

15+ Nutritional Yeast Recipes (Vegan & Oil-Free)

Published: 14 Aug 2020 · Updated: 28 Jul 2021 by Julianne Lynch · This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases · 2 Comments

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How to Use Nutritional Yeast
How to Use Nutritional Yeast

What is Nutritional Yeast and how is it used? Where can I buy Nutritional Yeast? What are the health benefits of Nutritional Yeast? In this post, I answer those questions and share more than 15 of my best Nutritional Yeast Recipes.

Vegan Nutritional Yeast Recipes pin.

Oh, how I love nutritional yeast! Let me count the ways. The cheesy, earthy richness is just what I need to keep my plant-based diet on track. And while some people say it's an acquired taste, I loved nutritional yeast from the start.

Maybe you already know that nutritional yeast is a common ingredient in vegan cheeses. But what are some other ways you can use nutritional yeast? The answer: there are so many recipes! From condiments to snacks, sides to mains, and even a vegan breakfast staple, nutritional yeast is one of those ingredients I find myself reaching for again and again. But before we get to the recipes, let's dive a little deeper to find out what this seemingly strange substance actually is.

Jump to:
  • What is Nutritional Yeast?
  • Where can I buy Nutritional Yeast?
  • What is the best brand of Nutritional Yeast?
  • How do you use Nutritional Yeast? What are the best Nutritional Yeast Recipes?
  • Vegan Condiments made with Nutritional Yeast
  • Vegan Snacks and Side Dishes Made with Nutritional Yeast
  • Vegan Main Courses made with Nutritional Yeast
  • 📖 Recipe
  • Nutritional Yeast Recipes

What is Nutritional Yeast?

If you're new to plant-based eating, you might be wondering just what nutritional yeast is. Do you bake with it? What makes it nutritional?

Nutritional yeast is actually deactivated yeast. Unfortified Nutritional Yeast is rich in protein, iron, B-1 and B-2 vitamins, and other minerals. Often (but not always) it's fortified with B-12 vitamins, making it an ideal addition to a vegan diet (since the vegan diet naturally lacks vitamin B-12 and must be supplemented).

For info on the health benefits of Nutritional Yeast, check these articles. To learn more about the latest research on B-12 and the risks of vitamin deficiency, check out Nutritionfacts.org. And to read testimonials from vegan bloggers about the importance of supplementing B-12, take a look at this roundup by VeganLiftz where 24 out of 26 of the bloggers cited B-12 as the most important supplement to a vegan diet.

Photo of nutritional yeast in a bowl.

The texture of nutritional yeast can vary somewhat, but it's usually either flaky (like in the photo above) or powdery (like that store-bought parmesan topping that comes in a green cylinder). Nutritional yeast ranges in color from light or bright yellow to wheat-colored. Its flavor is often described as nutty, cheesy, savory, and earthy.

Depending on how it's used in a dish, nutritional yeast can bring out those flavors in other foods. For instance, paired with cashew cream it takes on a distinctly cheese-sauce-like flavor. But paired in other ways it just adds earthy richness to a dish. Nutritional yeast can also act as a binder or breading component.

Where can I buy Nutritional Yeast?

Most big supermarkets and small natural-food stores will carry nutritional yeast. You'll probably find it either in the organic or health-food section of the store or with baking ingredients. You can also order Nutritional Yeast online.

What is the best brand of Nutritional Yeast?

Unfortunately, I can't give you an answer there. There are a lot of popular brands of Nutritional Yeast. These include Bragg, Bob’s Red Mill, and Trader Joe's. But ultimately, different people prefer different brands. My best advice is to start with the brand that's most convenient for you and then branch out later if you need to.

Although it wasn't the case with me, I frequently hear people online talk about how they thought they didn't like Nutritional Yeast until they tried brand X. So if your first foray into the world of Nutritional Yeast doesn't go so well, don't fret! Just play the field a bit until you find the right match.


How to Use Nutritonal Yeast pin.

How do you use Nutritional Yeast? What are the best Nutritional Yeast Recipes?

Okay, so now you know what nutritional yeast is and where to buy it. But the biggest question of all is how to use nutritional yeast. A lot of people know it's a common ingredient in vegan cheese, but there are so many other uses! Sometimes I just sprinkle nutritional yeast over whatever I'm eating for extra flavor and vitamin B. Nutritional yeast also makes a great topping for popcorn.

But Nutritional Yeast can do so much more. You can elevate this ingredient and alter the flavor in so many interesting and unique ways. So if you're looking for new ways to use nutritional yeast, read on. Here are more than 10 of my best Nutritional Yeast Recipes.


Vegan Condiments made with Nutritional Yeast

Condiments don't always get the credit they deserve--which is a shame because pairing the right condiment with your meal can really take your food from blah to bling! Here are some of my favorite condiments that use nutritional yeast.

Vegan Parmesan Cheese (Nut-Free)

I sometimes just sprinkle nutritional yeast over pasta, but if you're looking for something that better replicates the taste of parmesan cheese, this super easy Vegan Parmesan will hit the mark.

Not only is it quick (just 2 minutes to mix everything together), but the combination of hemp seeds and nutritional yeast means this simple topping packs a nutritional punch. It's perfect for topping all sorts of dishes including Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta, Air Fryer Asparagus, Vegan Italian Salad, Vegan Bolognese, and more.

Vegan parmesan in a jar.

Easy Vegan Pesto (Oil-Free)

Bright green and full of flavor, pesto is definitely one of my favorite condiments. To make pesto vegan you just need to substitute the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. This recipe goes even further by dropping the oil in favor of aquafaba, but the result is still the decadent and creamy sauce that takes anything from pasta salad to sandwiches to the next level of delish.

Vegan pesto in a jar.

Vegan Ricotta Cheese

This bright and creamy almond ricotta cheese tastes amazing on toast or crackers or as a substitute for dairy in lasagna or stuffed shells. I even prefer dolloping this on my pizza over using other vegan cheese substitutes. The nutritional yeast adds a subtle, earthy flavor that perfectly compliments the almonds and lemon juice.

Almond ricotta cheese in a jar.

Vegan Mayo/Oil-free Aioli

This oil-free vegan aioli (aka vegan mayo) is quick, creamy, and delicious. It's perfect for spreading on a sandwich or using as a base for a salad dressing. It's also ideal for making curry chickpea salad, vegan potato salad, or creamy coleslaw. The main ingredient is silken tofu, but the nutritional yeast helps deepen the flavor and give it that extra something special.

Vegan oil-free mayo in a jar.

Vegan Snacks and Side Dishes Made with Nutritional Yeast

Who doesn't love a good snack or side dish! Even better with the savory goodness and vitamin boost of nutritional yeast. Here are a few of my favorite plant-based snacks and sides that feature nutritional yeast.

Vegan Parmesan & Garlic Roasted Chickpeas

Crispy, crunchy, and oil-free, roasted chickpeas are one of my favorite healthy snacks. And one of my favorite flavor combinations for roasted chickpeas is Vegan Parmesan & Garlic. Just mix together a little lemon juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, and nutritional yeast for an earthy and delicious flavor combination.

Oil-free roasted chickpeas in a bowl.

Cashew Queso Dip

When you go vegan, one of the hardest things (for most people) to give up is cheese. But there is something so rich, decadent, and cheesy about this combination of blended cashews and nutritional yeast. Not only is it delicious as a dip, but it also makes for the perfect filling for Vegan Taquitos.

Vegan cashew queso in a bowl.

Oil-Free Vegan Mashed Potatoes

If you're following a whole-food plant-based lifestyle or just trying to cut or limit oil in your diet, then you might think mashed potatoes are off the table for good. But guess what? You can make rich, creamy, buttery Vegan Mashed Potatoes without and butter or oil. And guess what the secret ingredient is? That's right, Nutritional Yeast! These mashed potatoes are easy enough for a busy weeknight but special enough for a holiday feast!

Vegan no-butter mashed potatoes in a bowl.

Vegan Main Courses made with Nutritional Yeast

There's a reason it's called the main course. And while Nutritional Yeast might not be the obvious star in this category, these main course recipes wouldn't be the same without it.

Tofu Nuggets

Tofu Nuggets are one of my favorite go-to vegan recipes. Not only are they super versatile, but they're also kid-friendly. Tofu nuggets are oil-free, easy to prep, and require almost no clean-up. Just pop them in the oven or make them in an air fryer. Nutritional yeast acts as a kind of binder or breading that gives these nuggets their flavor and creates a crispy coating.

  • Air fryer tofu nuggets on a plate with a hand dipping one in ketchup.
    Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets
  • Chili lime tofu in a bowl.
    Chile-Lime Tofu Nuggets
  • Tofu nuggets on a plate with a small bowl of ketchup.
    Classic Tofu Nuggets

Some of my favorite varieties include the classic Tofu Nugget and Chile-lime Tofu Nuggets. But by far, my most popular recipe is for Chick-fil-A Style Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Honey Mustard Sauce. Give them all a try and let me know in the comments which one you like the best!

Chick-fil-A tofu on a plate with vegan honey mustard.

Sticky Orange Tofu

As with the tofu nuggets above, this Sticky Orange Tofu (aka Vegan Orange Chicken) uses Nutritional Yeast as a binder to help give the tofu a crispy and flavorful exterior. After you add the Orange Sauce and serve over rice you'll be thrilled by how much this meal resembles this classic takeout dish!

Sticky Orange Tofu (no oil)

Vegan Potato Soup

Nutritional Yeast adds creaminess and also helps thicken this delicious vegan potato soup. I love this recipes because it's simple, quick, and kid-friendly. You can even use an immersion blender if you prefer a smoother texture.

Vegan potato soup in a bowl.

Vegan Palak Paneer

Nutritional Yeast comes into play not once but twice in this Vegan Palak Paneer. First, the nutritional yeast and lemon juice combine to coat the fresh tofu and help impart traditional paneer (cheese) flavors. Next, nutritional yeast helps add creaminess and richness to the palak (spinach) sauce. If you want a plant-based version of this Indian dish, you won't be disappointed.

Vegan palak paneer in a bowl with rice.

Tofu Scramble

If you're missing eggs since going plant-based, then a quick tofu scramble is one of the easiest ways to scratch that itch. The combination of Nutritional Yeast and Kala Namak is what makes this dish work.

Tofu scramble on a plate with toast.

Vegan Deviled Egg Crostini

Speaking of tofu scramble, why not take it up a notch to make a simple Vegan Deviled Egg? I like the simplicity of spreading this mixture on little toasts to make deviled egg crostini, but it also works well as a sandwich or over a bed of lettuce. Perfect as a main course, side dish, lunch, appetizer--or however you like!

Hand holding a piece of vegan deviled egg crostini.

📖 Recipe

How to Use Nutritonal Yeast pin.

Nutritional Yeast Recipes

Here's one of my favorite nutritional yeast recipes: Easy Vegan Parmesan! It takes just two minutes to mix everything together and I always have some on hand to top pasta and veggie dishes.
4.34 from 9 votes
Print Recipe Share on Facebook Pin Recipe SaveSaved!
Prep Time 2 minutes mins
Course Appetizer, Breakfast, Condiment, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American, International

Equipment

Kingrol 4 Pack 34 Ounces Gl...Shop on Amazon
glass jar
Fsdifly-Stainless Steel Mea...Shop on Amazon
measuring spoons
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measuring cups

Ingredients
 
 

  • ½ cup hemp hearts
  • ⅓ cup nutritional yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
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Instructions
 

  • Add all of the ingredients to a glass jar. Screw the lid tight on the jar. Shake the jar until all of the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  • Serve and enjoy right away or store for later.
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Notes

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months.
Keyword nutritional yeast recipes, recipes with nutritional yeast, vegan nutritional yeast recipes, what is nutritional yeast
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    4.34 from 9 votes (9 ratings without comment)

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  1. Anita says

    January 03, 2023 at 5:29 am

    If recipe does not specify, which form is to be used, flake or ground?

    Thanks,
    Anita

    Reply
    • Julianne Lynch says

      January 03, 2023 at 8:53 am

      I have only ever found Nutritional yeast flakes, so I would stick with those unless otherwise specified.

      Reply
Julianne, founder of No Sweat Vegan.

Hi, I'm Julianne! A dedicated home chef for over 20 years and a vegan recipe developer since 2020. I love creating simple and comforting vegan food for the whole family. Most of my recipes are quick, Whole-Foods Plant-Based, and easy on the budget. Thanks for stopping by!

You can also find me at AirFryerVeg.com.

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