Nutritional Yeast Recipes (2024)

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With its cheesy, nutty, and savory flavor, Nutritional Yeast is a dairy-free seasoning that should be in everyone’s pantry–whether vegan or not.

These nutritional yeast recipes are going to make you a believer with their amazing flavor!

Nutritional yeast is a healthy culinary must-have. If you aren’t familiar with its flavoring superpowers, that is going to change right here, right now.

We’ve got it all with these delicious nutritional yeast recipes. Everything vegan–from parmesan cheese to quiche to breakfast scramble. And, you’re going to love it all!

What is nutritional yeast?

Nutritional yeast, unlike baker’s and brewer’s yeasts, is a deactivated yeast used for seasoning.

It’s an inactive form of the yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Though it is the same strain of yeast bakers use to leaven bread, nutritional yeast has been pasteurized to dry out the yeast. This process helps to extract its nutritional benefits.

Nutritional yeast is exclusively for seasoning and cannot be used for leavening in baking. Even so, it can normally be found in the baking section of many grocery stores. I usually purchase my nutritional yeast online.

What does it taste like?

Known by vegan enthusiasts as nooch, this seasoning yeast has a nutty, cheesy flavor and is yellow in color. It can be purchased in flakes and granules as well as a powder that can be used interchangeably.

Nutritional yeast can be used in recipes the same way you might use grated cheese to add flavor to foods like popcorn, baked potatoes, and pizza.

Uses for nutritional yeast

  • Sprinkle over salads, roasted vegetables, pasta, rice, popcorn, and more
  • Use in vegan cheese sauce recipes
  • Stir into soups and stews
  • Add to casseroles and other dishes

Two types of nutritional yeast

There are two types of nutritional yeast available — unfortified and fortified.

  • Unfortified- This type only contains the vitamins and minerals that are naturally produced by the yeast cells as they grow. No additional additives or salt are included.
  • Fortified- This is the most common type found in grocery stores, and it has synthetic vitamins added during the manufacturing process. They will be listed on the ingredient list.

Is nutritional yeast good for you?

Nutritional yeast has many health benefits. It contains all nine essential amino acids and the fortified type can be a source of some vitamins and minerals.

It is considered safe for most people, but those who are on certain medications or who are sensitive to yeast products may need to talk with their healthcare provider.

Another lesser-known fact is that nutritional yeast is high in purines and may cause an abundance of uric acid which can lead to gout flare-ups if consumed in larger quantities. This actually happened with my husband who had never experienced gout before and hasn’t again after limiting his nutritional yeast intake.

Those with Crohn’s Disease or other autoimmune issues may want to watch this short video, Is Nutritional Yeast Healthy for Everyone?

This post may contain affiliate links.Read my full disclosure here.

Nutritional Yeast Recipes

These delicious recipes range from vegan cheese sauces to breakfast casseroles and quiche. It's the nutritional yeast that adds all the flavor, so pull out that container and give some of these a try! Click on each of the photos, recipe titles, or 'Get the Recipe' buttons to see full recipes with ingredients, measurements, instructions, and a print button.

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (2)

Best Vegan Cheese Sauce

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (3)

Best Vegan Egg Salad

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (4)

Amazing Tofu Scramble

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (6)

Vegan Quiche Casserole

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (7)

Chili Cheese Fries

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (8)

Cashew Cheese | Mozzarella

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (9)

Amazing Vegan Nachos

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (10)

Savory Spice Blend Seasoning

This simple and delicious Savory Spice Blend Seasoning is perfect to keep on hand to add flavor to dishes in place of salt. It livens up even the blandest recipes.

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (11)

Vegan Nacho Cheese

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (12)

Simple Vegan Ricotta Cheese

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (13)

Cheesy Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (14)

Sweet Potato Vegan Cheese Sauce

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (15)

Green Bean Vegan Casserole

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (16)

Vegan Parmesan Cheese

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (17)

Mexican Corn on the Cob

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (18)

Vegan Loaded Potato Skins

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (19)

Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (20)

Roasted Garlic Butter Pasta

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (21)

Healthy Vegan Popcorn Toppings

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (22)

Vegan Broccoli Casserole

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (23)

Cooking Vegan Grits

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (24)

Vegan Baked Potato Toppings

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (25)

Vegan Broccoli Cheese Soup

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (26)

Gluten-Free Vegan Mac and Cheese

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (27)

Cheezy Vegan Scalloped Potatoes

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (28)

Easy Vegan Pizza in Minutes

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (29)

Vegan Lasagna

“Nutritional yeast is high in purines. Large quantities of purines in the diet create an abundance of uric acid, which has been associated with several ailments, including gout. Furthermore, over-reliance on a single food in the diet may eventually cause sensitivity or possibly even an allergy to that food.”GrassRootsVegan

Other great vegan recipes

  • 30-Minute or Less Recipes
  • Black Bean Recipes
  • Gluten-Free Recipes

For those of you new to the whole food plant-based lifestyle, we’ve created a FREE 7-Day Plant-Based Menu Planner to help you get started!

About Terri Edwards

Hi guys! I am the content creator behind EatPlant-Based and a licensed Food for Life instructor with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.I am passionate about sharing healthy recipes and tips to empower others to get healthy. I’m so glad you’re here! Read More…

Nutritional Yeast Recipes (2024)

FAQs

Is there any downside to nutritional yeast? ›

Nutritional yeast can trigger or worsen symptoms associated with IBD. Trigger headaches or migraine attacks: Nutritional yeast may trigger migraine attacks in some individuals with migraine susceptibility because of the presence of tyramine (derived from the amino acid, tyrosine).

What flavor does nutritional yeast add to food? ›

A: Nutritional yeast has a unique savory flavor that resembles cheese, making it a great alternative for adding flavor without salt, sugar or fat. Some people say it adds a nutty flavor to foods.

Can you eat nutritional yeast by itself? ›

It shouldn't be eaten alone like cheese, but can resemble the flavor of cheese in cooking. Flavorful: We talked a lot about umami in the Adding Umami Flavor to Your Plant-Based Whole30 blog post, and nutritional yeast provides a savory, umami flavor that adds depth to dishes.

Should I refrigerate nutritional yeast? ›

Also, check the packaging if you're interested in buying nutritional yeast with vitamin B12, as not all brands are fortified. Store nutritional yeast in a tightly sealed bag or jar in a cool, dark place (or in the refrigerator), and it should keep for about two years.

What happens to your body when you eat nutritional yeast? ›

But regularly consuming nutritional yeast can help you get enough vitamin B6, which may help strengthen your immunity. Dietary fiber can also help increase the number of good bacteria in the gut. And research suggests a healthy gut microbiome may be able to help protect against certain infections.

Is nutritional yeast anti-inflammatory? ›

Some benefits include its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties, an improved immune system, management of blood sugar, and improvements in heart health. The benefits of nutritional yeast outweigh the side effects, although it is not for everyone.

Is nutritional yeast good for your gut? ›

Digestive issues

Nutritional yeast is an excellent source of fiber. A two-tablespoon serving contains about 20% of your daily intake. However, increasing your fiber consumption too quickly can cause digestive discomfort. It's best to start with small portions and make sure to drink plenty of water to aid digestion.

What is the point of nutritional yeast? ›

Nutritional yeast can add vitamins, minerals, and protein to the diet. Benefits of nutritional yeast include boosting energy, supporting the immune system, and more. Yeast has played an important role in the human diet for thousands of years. This fungus is a vital ingredient in bread, beer, and a range of other foods.

Does nutritional yeast cause gas? ›

Some research has suggested that nutritional yeast may be irritating to those with Crohn's disease and other types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). In general, adding too much fiber to your diet too quickly can cause issues like gas, bloating and cramping, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Does nutritional yeast ever go bad? ›

The answer depends on several factors. Nutritional yeast, unlike certain perishable food items, doesn't go bad in the traditional sense. It can last well beyond its labeled expiration date if stored properly. However, its quality may degrade over time, resulting in a less potent flavor and reduced nutritional content.

Does nutritional yeast help with weight loss? ›

One of the biggest health benefits for nutritional yeast comes with weight loss. Credit goes to a type of fiber called beta-glucan. One study on beta-glucan–rich foods showed they help dieters lose weight 672% faster than normal. Related: What Is Beta-Glucan and Why Is Everyone Raving About Its Weight Loss Superpowers?

What do you need nutritional yeast for? ›

Nutritional yeast can be used in many recipes as a tasty seasoning that you can sprinkle on your food or add to your sauces, snacks, and dressings. It also works well as a thickener for soups. Foods you can make with nutritional yeast include: Vegan mac and cheese.

What is the purpose of adding nutritional yeast? ›

Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free and usually gluten-free way to add a savory, nutty flavor to dishes. Nutritional yeast can add vitamins, minerals, and protein to the diet. Benefits of nutritional yeast include boosting energy, supporting the immune system, and more.

Is it OK to cook nutritional yeast? ›

May I Heat Nutritional Yeast? Sure, you can! Of course, nutritional yeast can also be used cold, but no worry if you would like to explore cooking it. According to the USDA, 100g of nutritional yeast is made up of 53g of protein, 33g of starch, 27g of fiber, and 7g of fat and hence delivers 400 kcal of energy.

References

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