31 Easy Dairy-Free Recipes

There are several reasons why you might want to prepare dairy-free meals. You might have a vegan in your life or someone who cannot tolerate lactose in dairy products. Not to worry.

We’ve got some wonderful dairy-free meals that are easy and fun to prepare.

These recipes bring all the flavor without the lactose, and are delicious, and packed with flavor for the vegan in your life to enjoy. From salads and side dishes to gravy, sauce, and even ranch dressing.

These dairy-free recipes are certain to please everyone. You’re going to want to keep these on hand for special occasions and just because they’re so tasty.

1. Dairy-Free Tuscan Chicken

This recipe for Dairy-Free Tuscan Chicken is a delightfully creamy and savory dish that works over noodles or rice, or with some steamed vegetables.

Cube your boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces or leave it whole if you prefer.

The secret ingredient in this recipe is cashew butter. This is the base for the sauce. Use almond flour, and unsweetened almond milk to round out the creamy flavors in this delicious dairy-free dinner recipe.

The flavors in this non-dairy dish are bold and hearty.

Once you perfect the sauce you can substitute any kind of vegetables or meat variety that you prefer.

2. Creamy Dairy-Free Chicken and Vegetable Soup

This recipe starts with boneless, skinless chicken and is rounded out by a creamy broth and lots of healthy vegetables.

The savory ingredients are layered upon each other for a wonderful depth of flavor and a warm and comforting soup experience.

The secret ingredient in this soup is the cashew cream for the broth.

Cashew cream makes a delightful soup base and makes this recipe one of our favorite non-dairy dinner ideas.

Try this one on a cold night when you want to be warmed from the inside. You can make this recipe vegetarian by substituting beans for the chicken and vegetable broth in place of chicken stock.

Try different vegetables for variety.

3. Crunchy Broccoli Salad

This dairy-free Crunchy Broccoli Salad is perfect for potlucks or get-togethers or for a summer BBQ.

Just be sure to warn your guests that the base for the creamy “mayo” is the magical cashew!

This salad makes a colorful and beautiful presentation and has loads of flavor and crunch. It’s packed with crunch and a little bit of sweetness from the dried fruit.

If you want your salad a bit sweeter, you can add some maple syrup or agave sweetener to the mayo.

This recipe is sure to be a hit at any party!

4. Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup

You can’t go wrong with Chicken Pot Pie. This healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a total comfort food item that your family will love.

It contains all of the traditional pot pie taste but is a dairy-free food

Start with boneless, skinless, chicken breasts and savory herbs and spices. Peas, carrots, celery, and all the regular pot pie vegetables round out the flavor.

The secret ingredient in this recipe is the Yukon Gold potatoes.

They cook to perfection and give this hearty soup a creamy thick texture that rivals your Grandma’s pot pie recipe.

5. Simple Roasted Vegetables

This simple and delicious recipe for Roasted Vegetables is quick, easy, and a great way to prep vegetables for use later on. Use a sheet pan and cut your vegetables into similar-sized pieces so that they cook evenly.

The secret recipe in this dish is the spice blend. These savory spices serve to bring out the savory and sweet flavors of the veggies.

Toss in oil and seasoning and arrange on your sheet pan in a single layer for best results.

These veggies keep for days and are great to add to any meal or snack.

6. Dairy-Free Stuffed Peppers

These savory and delicious Dairy-Free Stuffed Peppers are so flavorful and richly seasoned that you’ll miss the cheese.

Mix your cooked rice with tomato sauce and blend with your cooked and drained ground beef and assorted vegetables.

Tip: Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers are less bitter than green bell peppers. Choose these for a sweeter-tasting pepper to fill.

Drizzle with a bit of spicy tomato sauce and herbs before serving.

7. Beef Stroganoff (Dairy-Free)

Start with chunks of beef, seared in a hot pan. Remove from the pan and add mushrooms and onion and fry until onion is translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

Meanwhile, make your cashew cream and hold it to the side.

Stir in your flour and mix, then add wine to deglaze the pan. This is the sauce for your dish. Add in your spices, broth, and Worcestershire sauce, then add the meat back into the dish.

Mix in your cashew cream and reheat the meat. Serve over egg noodles and garnish with fresh parsley.

8. Dairy-Free Meatballs

These baked Dairy-Free Meatballs are a great appetizer or dairy-free dinner recipe that your family is going to love.

Mix ground beef and ground pork together for the best flavor combination.

These meatballs work with traditional marinara sauce and pasta or just about any kind of sauce you choose. You can also change up the spice combinations.

This Italian blend is great, but you can use more Mediterranean spices or even southwest or east Indian.

This recipe travels well, can be made in advance as well as frozen for later use.

Play around with substituting different meat combos like ground turkey or lamb.

9. Dairy-Free Cheese Pizza

Dairy-Free Cheese Pizza is bound to be one of your favorite meals without dairy.

After all, who doesn’t love a delicious pizza? It’s the ultimate comfort food, and you shouldn’t be without a vegan recipe.

There are great dairy-free cheeses out there, and once you perfect the homemade crust, you can top it with your favorite sauces and varieties of toppings.

The secret ingredient in this recipe is the garlic and spice blends. Use Italian seasonings, and fresh garlic to make this pizza a memorable and often requested non-dairy meal.

10. 30 Minute Dairy-Free Potato Soup

This recipe uses unsweetened coconut milk to give the 30 Minute Dairy-Free Potato Soup a lovely depth of flavor and the blended potato texture that we love.

Tip: Use your immersion blender or pulse this soup in a blender until creamy, adding the coconut milk as you blend.

Pair this with some crusty bread and a side salad for a delicious dairy-free meal that’s one of our best, easy recipe ideas.

We’re pretty sure this one is going to be in regular rotation in your kitchen very soon.

11. Easy Dairy-Free Butter Chicken

This Easy Dairy-Free Butter Chicken is a delightfully savory Asian- inspired meal that you are going to love.

This dish uses an Indian spice blend to flavor the chicken, and the addition of tomato sauce and coconut milk gives it a creamy texture.

The secret ingredient in the recipe is the lime juice which brightens and contrasts with the tomato flavor and spices.

This recipe is going to be considered a treat whenever you make it, and we’re pretty sure you’ll be making it often.

12. Classic Meatloaf with Oatmeal

This Classic Meatloaf with Oatmeal is not your grandmother’s meatloaf. The use of quick-cooking oats in the recipe gives it a different texture than traditional breadcrumbs.

The ketchup-based glaze brings some sweetness to the savory meatloaf and makes a nice gooey crust on top.

You can substitute grated onion for chopped, and finely grated carrot for another added bit of flavor and no chunks of onion.

You can also substitute jalapeno or sriracha ketchup for traditional ketchup for an extra spice boost.

13. Dairy-Free Creamed Spinach

Unsweetened Soy Milk is what brings the cream to this Dairy-Free Creamed Spinach dish.

Creamed spinach can be made with fresh or frozen spinach, but this recipe works either way.

This is a great recipe to bring to a potluck or holiday party.

It pairs well with just about any main dish and goes really well with traditional Thanksgiving fare.

You’re going to want to keep this recipe on standby. You never know when you’re going to have a vegetarian or vegan guest to cook for.

14. Vegan Beef and Broccoli

This Asian-inspired Beef and Broccoli recipe is easy and quick and leaves a great impression on your guests.

Soy curls are substituted for the beef, they are rehydrated and coated with cornstarch. The broccoli gets quick steam, then you remove it and fry your soy curls.

The dish comes back together with the addition of the amazing sauce. Serve over rice.

Tip: Be sure not to overcook the broccoli, it only takes a few minutes to steam the florets. You don’t want mushy broccoli!

You can substitute tofu or seitan for the soy curls.

15. Honey Glazed Ginger Garlic Salmon

Honey Glazed Ginger Garlic Salmon is one of our favorite dairy-free dinner ideas. You can’t go wrong with this tasty dish.

This recipe calls for salmon, but you can use shrimp or any substantial fish that would pair well with this glaze.

Ginger and garlic are a match made in culinary heaven.

These two strong flavors with a bit of sweetness from the honey and umami from the soy and hoisin sauce give this dish a depth of flavor that is unforgettable.

Pull this one out for special occasions. It’s deceptively simple to make, and everyone will love it.

16. Vegan Spinach Salad

This beautiful Vegan Spinach Salad makes a great presentation at any meal or gathering. Fresh crisp ingredients with a variety of textures, and packed with protein, make this a go-to salad for summer BBQ or simply a weeknight meal.

If you don’t need to go completely vegan, you can add some crumbled bacon and still keep the recipe dairy-free.

Load this salad with dried fruit and seeds for a satisfying extra layer of flavors.

The maple balsamic dressing is the secret ingredient in this recipe that ties all the flavors together and adds a bit of sweetness to the dish.

17. Easy Beef Stew

There’s nothing more hearty or wholesome than to have a pot of stew simmering on your stove. It warms your kitchen and your heart.

The recipe for this Easy Beef Stew works in your instant pot, on the stovetop, or in your slow cooker.

Just a few simple ingredients and a few simple steps make this stew a great weekday evening meal.

Beef stew is a perfect cold-weather meal. It’s packed with protein and has all the delicious vegetables you’d expect in a rich and savory gravy that is gluten and dairy-free.

18. Italian Green Beans

Even people who claim not to like green beans gobble up this version of Italian Green Beans.

They look beautiful on any table, whether you serve them as a side dish for a weeknight dinner or as a contribution to a holiday meal.

This dish is favored over the dreaded green bean casserole and is much healthier as well.

The trick to making firm, not mushy green beans is to blanch them first. Don’t overcook or they can get too soft and won’t saute well.

The red pepper flake and garlic in olive oil make these green beans a favorite. Add a little salt and pepper before serving.

19. Creamy Dairy-Free One Pot Pasta

This dairy-free pasta recipe uses non-dairy milk and nutritional yeast to thicken the tomato sauce.

The addition of tomato and spinach round out the flavors along with Italian seasonings.

You can substitute tofu, spaghetti squash, or zucchini noodles for the pasta if you want to make this recipe without pasta.

Use your favorite non-dairy milk. We like cashew milk for its thickening properties.

Serve with a side salad, and you’ve got a hearty and delicious meal that everyone is sure to love.

20. Healthy Dragon Bowls

Dragon Bowls are one-bowl meals that feature a tasty combination of vegetables and protein over rice, noodles, or a bed of spinach.

This is an Asian-inspired recipe that brings together garlic, soy, ginger, and miso, along with your favorite nut butter or tahini.

You can top with any protein, meat, or seeds, crushed peanuts or sesame seeds make a great garnish and give an added crunch.

It’s fun to experiment with different combinations of protein and vegetables.

You can make a dairy-free Dragon Bowl with just about anything you have on -hand, but don’t skimp on the sauce!

21. Dairy-Free Alfredo Sauce

You’ll never miss the heavy cream when you make this Dairy-Free Alfredo Sauce.

This sauce is thick and creamy with the buttery, garlicky and cheesy taste you’ve come to expect when you hear the words “Alfredo Sauce”.

The secret ingredients for success with this sauce are dairy-free, queso, cashew cream, and coconut milk.

Use this sauce for pasta, chicken dishes, and for a dairy-free pizza option. This sauce works great for every dish where you would use a creamy garlic sauce. The possibilities are endless!

22. Easy Garlic Herb Baked Salmon

This Easy Garlic Herb Baked Salmon is your secret weapon in the fight to make a quick and easy dairy-free meal.

Great for dinner parties or a meal at home. This dish takes only 15 minutes to bake but presents and tastes like you’ve been toiling in the kitchen for hours.

Pair with steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or your favorite side salad, and you’ve got a beautiful and delicious meal that is sure to impress.

The secret ingredient in this dish is the lemon herb butter. It’s packed with flavor and the brightness of citrus from the lemon.

23. Vegan Southern Squash Casserole

This recipe is a twist on the traditional squash casserole you may be familiar with. This version uses dairy-free cheeses, sour cream, and eggless mayo to make it a totally Vegan Southern Squash Casserole.

You can substitute real mayo if you don’t want to be 100% vegan and still keep it dairy-free.

The secret ingredient in this dish is the spice blend. You can add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a boost of flavor and kick of spice.

Substitute your favorite gluten-free or whole-grain crackers for the topping.

24. Vegan White Bean Soup

Soup is a perfect complement to your wintertime meal. It’s comfort food we can all enjoy. This dairy-free dinner is a vegan take on White Bean Soup.

This recipe is a great way to stretch your grocery dollar while giving your family a hearty, filling, and healthy meal.

You can use dried beans or canned for convenience.

You can leave it chunky or use your immersion blender to blend to a creamy consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley or scallions for a beautiful presentation.

You can make this dish ahead of time, as the flavors meld together. It may taste even better on the second day!

25. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

Would you like fries with that? Yes please! These Crispy Sweet Potato Fries with Dairy-Free Ranch will soon be your go-to snack or side to pair with burgers or sandwiches.

A coating of tapioca starch helps these fries crisp to perfection, and you can play around with the seasoning blend and make it even more delicious with the addition of some smoked paprika or chili powder.

The dairy-free ranch substitutes dairy-free greek yogurt for the traditional sour cream base.

It’s just as creamy and delicious as you expect it to be. This recipe is sure to be on repeat in your kitchen.

26. Creamy Vegan Mushroom Risotto

Start with Risotto Rice to make this Creamy Vegan Mushroom Risotto. Saute your aromatics then add your mushrooms. Stir in the rice and vinegar. This recipe calls for wine vinegar, but other seasoned vinegar will work as well.

As soon as you add the rice, begin ladling your stock into the pan, bring to a boil, then simmer until the liquid is absorbed. Repeat.

This method yields a creamy texture and the addition of nutritional yeast gives another layer of flavor.

Salt and pepper to taste. This makes a delicious and dairy-free side dish.

27. Dairy-Free Italian Pasta Salad

This recipe makes the perfect summer salad. Your Dairy-Free Italian Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit at the next backyard BBQ or get-together.

With tomato, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and your favorite pasta, this salad makes a beautiful and colorful presentation anywhere you serve it.

Omit the salami to make it vegetarian-friendly, and substitute some pumpkin or hemp seeds for added protein. The dressing for this summer’s favorite is straight oil and vinegar with garlic, but you can make any simple vinaigrette to go with your version.

28. Vegan Fried Okra

This twist on a southern recipe will keep you coming back for more. This is a quick and easy recipe that serves up deep-fried crispy goodness and is still dairy-free.

Vegan Fried Okra will soon become a favorite snack or side in your kitchen.

The secret ingredient to this dish is buttermilk substitution. Who knew you could make buttermilk with soy milk? The trick is to start with your soy milk and curdle with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.

Soak the okra in the buttermilk, batter with the seasoned cornmeal, and you’ve soon achieved southern-fried goodness. We can almost guarantee no leftovers!

29. Homemade Vegan Spaghetti Sauce

Homemade is always better than store-bought, don’t you think? We agree!

That’s why we’re sharing this Homemade Vegan Spaghetti Sauce that is easy to make and gives you a savory flavor that is leaps and bounds ahead of any store-bought sauce.

Vegan butter is the secret ingredient in this sauce along with a pinch of brown sugar to cut the acid in the tomato.

Serve this with your favorite pasta, or spaghetti squash. It can also make a delicious pizza or dipping sauce.

You can’t go wrong with this dairy-free food.

30. Gluten-Free Herb Roasted Turkey

This Gluten-Free, Herb Roasted Turkey is also dairy-free and quite delicious. It’s stuffed with herbs, lemon, garlic, and onion, and coated with a buttery herb spread then roasted under a cheesecloth which yields a moist and tasty bird.

Fresh herbs and buttery spread are combined to coat the turkey before roasting.

This turns the skin golden brown with just that perfect amount of crispness.

You won’t want to wait until the holidays to try out this amazing roasting method. It’s going to change the way you roast turkey forever.

31. Dairy-Free Turkey Gravy

With 20 minutes and some stock and turkey drippings, you can create a delicious turkey gravy that’s dairy-free.

This recipe is easy, and straightforward and you will learn more than what you thought you ever needed to know about making gravy from this site.

Make a roux, use your pan drippings and stock or broth to create a perfect gravy that pairs well with any holiday meal or leftovers.

The tricks and tips in this recipe are to prevent lumps and perfectly season your gravy every time. Give it a try, and you’ll be whipping up gravy for every occasion from now on.