Best Dairy-Free Cheese Alternatives (That Actually Taste Good!)

When going dairy free, one of the hardest things to substitute is cheese. It’s on everything! The good news? You don’t have to give it up!

Dairy-free mozzarella shreds on a pizza, melted and bubbly as a butter-free cheese alternative.

Today, there are tons of dairy-free cheese alternatives that taste great, melt well, and make your favorite recipes just as cheesy and satisfying—without the dairy.

Whether you’re craving pizza, mac and cheese, grilled cheese, or just a snack board, this guide breaks down the most popular dairy-free cheeses and how to use them.

1. Dairy-Free Mozzarella

Mozzarella is a must-have for pizza and pasta bakes, and luckily, there are dairy-free versions that melt and stretch almost like the real deal.

Great for: Pizza, lasagna, grilled cheese
Popular brands: Miyoko’s (the liquid is a MUST HAVE for pizza -you won’t know the difference), Daiya, Violife
Tip: Look for versions labeled “melty” for the best pizza results.

2. Dairy-Free Cheddar

Cheddar is bold and flavorful—perfect for mac and cheese, nachos, or a classic grilled cheese sandwich.

Great for: Mac and cheese, quesadillas, burgers
Popular brands: Follow Your Heart, Violife, Daiya
Tip: Shredded versions melt faster and blend smoothly into sauces.

dairy-free cheddar shreds ready for nachos or mac and cheese.

TIP: I haven’t found a dairy free cheddar cheese that I really like so I skip the cheese when cheddar is needed. But try a bunch of different brands and see which you like!

RELATED ARTICLE: Your Guide To The Best Dairy Free Butter

3. Dairy-Free Parmesan

Parmesan brings salty, nutty flavor to pasta dishes, soups, and salads. Dairy-free Parmesan usually comes in shredded or grated form.

Great for: Pasta, risotto, salads
Popular brands: Go Veggie, Violife, Follow Your Heart
Tip: Sprinkle a little nutritional yeast for an extra “cheesy” kick.

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4. Dairy-Free Cream Cheese

Perfectly smooth and spreadable, dairy-free cream cheese is ideal for bagels, cheesecakes, and dips.

Great for: Bagels, frosting, cheesecakes
Popular brands: Tofutti, Kite Hill, Violife
Tip: Choose plain for baking or flavored versions (like chive or strawberry) for spreading.

5. Dairy-Free Ricotta

Light and creamy, ricotta alternatives are often made from almonds or tofu.

Dairy-free ricotta cheese layered inside homemade lasagna.

Great for: Lasagna, stuffed shells, dips
Popular brands: Kite Hill, Tofutti, homemade tofu ricotta
Tip: Making it at home with blended tofu, lemon, and herbs is quick and inexpensive.

6. Dairy-Free Feta

Tangy and crumbly, feta-style cheese alternatives are a perfect topping for salads, grain bowls, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Great for: Salads, wraps, roasted veggie bowls
Popular brands: Violife, Follow Your Heart
Tip: Add a drizzle of olive oil and herbs for extra flavor.

7. Nutritional Yeast (“Nooch”)

Not technically cheese, but it’s a vegan pantry staple that adds a cheesy, nutty flavor to almost anything.

Great for: Popcorn, pasta, soups, sauces
Tip: Sprinkle it on top of roasted veggies for a quick flavor boost.

How to Choose the Best Dairy-Free Cheese

For melting: Mozzarella and cheddar-style shreds work best. Miyoko’s liquid mozarella is hands-down the best for pizza or melted cheese
For sprinkling: Parmesan alternatives and nutritional yeast.
For spreading: Dairy-free cream cheese or soft cheeses.
For tangy flavor: Feta or ricotta.

Give it a Try!

Going dairy-free doesn’t mean giving up your favorite cheesy dishes. With so many delicious dairy-free cheese alternatives available, you can keep enjoying pizza, pasta, and comfort foods without compromise. 🎉

If you’re just getting started, try swapping one cheese at a time. Before you know it, you’ll have your own go-to favorites stocked in the fridge.