Nutritional yeast has become a favorite ingredient for many people, especially those following plant-based diets. It has a cheesy, nutty flavor and is packed with vitamins and nutrients, making it a great addition to dishes like pasta, popcorn, and sauces. But what happens if you run out of nutritional yeast or simply can’t find it at the store? Don’t worry! There are several nutritional yeast substitutes you can use that will still give your meals that delicious, savory flavor.

In this guide, we will dive into the best substitutes for nutritional yeast, how to use them, and which ones work best in different recipes. Whether you’re a vegan or just trying to experiment with new flavors, you’ll find the perfect alternative here.

What Is Nutritional Yeast?

Before we talk about substitutes, it’s important to understand what nutritional yeast is and why it’s so popular. Nutritional yeast is a type of yeast that’s grown specifically for its nutritional value. Unlike the yeast used for baking or brewing, nutritional yeast doesn’t make dough rise. Instead, it’s used as a food ingredient for its cheesy taste and health benefits.

Nutritional yeast is high in protein, B-vitamins, and fiber. It’s also often fortified with vitamin B12, which is important for people who don’t eat animal products. Many people sprinkle it on their meals, blend it into sauces, or even use it in baking recipes. However, if you find yourself without it, there’s no need to worry because you have plenty of options.

Top Nutritional Yeast Substitutes: A List of OptionsParmesan Cheese (For Non-Vegans)

If you’re not following a vegan or dairy-free diet, Parmesan cheese is the easiest and most similar substitute for nutritional yeast. It has a sharp, salty flavor that’s quite close to nutritional yeast’s cheesy taste. Parmesan also works well when sprinkled over pasta or mixed into sauces.

• How to Use It: Use the same amount of Parmesan cheese as you would nutritional yeast in your recipe.
• Best For: Pasta dishes, salads, pizza, or anything where a cheesy topping is needed.

Cashew Cheese

Cashew cheese is a great option for those following a plant-based diet. It’s creamy, rich, and can have a nutty flavor that’s similar to nutritional yeast. Plus, it’s easy to make at home by blending soaked cashews with lemon juice, nutritional yeast (if you have some), and spices. If you’re out of nutritional yeast, just skip it and rely on the other flavors for your cashew cheese.

• How to Use It: Spread cashew cheese on sandwiches, use it as a dip, or add it to pasta dishes for a creamy, cheesy effect.
• Best For: Sauces, dips, or creamy pasta dishes.

Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds are packed with protein and healthy fats. They have a mild, nutty flavor that can add richness to your dishes. When combined with a little bit of salt and garlic powder, hemp seeds can mimic the savory taste of nutritional yeast.

• How to Use It: Sprinkle them on salads or use them in place of nutritional yeast in savory dishes.
• Best For: Sprinkling on salads, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are another great substitute for nutritional yeast, especially when mixed with other seasonings. They don’t have the exact same flavor, but they’re rich in nutrients and can give your dishes a hearty, nutritious boost.

Miso Paste

Miso paste is a fermented food made from soybeans. It has a salty, umami flavor that’s similar to nutritional yeast. Miso paste can be used to make a savory broth or added to soups and sauces.

• How to Use It: Add miso paste to soups, stews, or sauces. You can also mix it with water to create a broth that adds a cheesy, savory flavor to your dishes.
• Best For: Soups, broths, sauces, and stir-fries.

Vegan Cheese (Store-Bought)

If you want a quick and convenient option, there are many store-bought vegan cheeses that taste similar to nutritional yeast. Some vegan cheeses are made with cashews, while others use plant-based ingredients like soy or coconut oil. These cheeses can be melted and used in cooking or sprinkled over dishes just like nutritional yeast.

• How to Use It: Use vegan cheese in any recipe where you would normally use nutritional yeast, like pasta dishes, pizza, or salads.
• Best For: Pizza, pasta, and melted cheese dishes.

How to Choose the Right Nutritional Yeast Substitute

Choosing the right substitute depends on what you’re making and what you’re looking for in terms of flavor and texture. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide:

• For a Cheesy Flavor: Parmesan cheese, cashew cheese, or vegan cheese are your best bets.
• For a Nutty Flavor: Hemp seeds, chia seeds, or even ground almonds can add a similar richness to your dishes.
• For a Savory, Umami Flavor: Miso paste or soy sauce can mimic the savory taste of nutritional yeast, especially in soups and stews.

How to Use Nutritional Yeast Substitutes in Recipes

Let’s look at some examples of how to swap nutritional yeast with these substitutes in common dishes.

1. Pasta Dishes: If you’re making pasta and you’re out of nutritional yeast, Parmesan cheese or cashew cheese will work perfectly as a replacement. Simply sprinkle the cheese over the pasta or mix it into the sauce for a creamy, cheesy texture.
2. Popcorn: If you love nutritional yeast on your popcorn but don’t have any, try using ground hemp seeds mixed with a pinch of salt and garlic powder. You can also use vegan cheese powder for a cheesy kick.
3. Vegan Sauces: Vegan cheese or cashew cheese can replace nutritional yeast in creamy sauces. Simply blend your choice of cashews or vegan cheese with some plant-based milk and spices to create a cheesy sauce.
4. Baked Goods: If a recipe calls for nutritional yeast to add a savory flavor, chia seeds or hemp seeds can work well in baked goods, particularly savory breads or crackers.

Conclusion: Nutritional Yeast Substitutes for Every Meal

No matter what dish you’re making, there’s always a substitute for nutritional yeast that can deliver a similar savory, cheesy, or nutty flavor. Whether you prefer a dairy-based option like Parmesan cheese or a plant-based alternative like cashew cheese, there’s a solution for everyone. Don’t let running out of nutritional yeast keep you from enjoying your favorite recipes. With these substitutes, you’ll still be able to create delicious and nutritious meals.