Delicious Plant Based Nacho Bel Grande with Creamy Cashew Cheese Sauce

Kylee Melo
Sep 29
4 min read

Nacho Bel Grande is a beloved classic known for its delightful mix of flavors and textures. Traditionally filled with cheese, meat, and numerous toppings, this iconic dish can easily be reinvented as a delicious plant-based version that everyone can savor. In this blog post, I will show you how to create a mouthwatering Plant Based Nacho Bel Grande topped with a creamy cashew cheese sauce, along with a variety of fresh toppings. Get ready to indulge in a guilt-free treat that’s perfect for game day, movie night, or any casual gathering!

The Appeal of Plant-Based Nachos

The rise of plant-based eating has taken the culinary world by storm. There are multiple reasons for the surge in popularity. For one, plant-based diets can lower the risk of heart disease by up to 32%. It can help control or reverse type 2 diabetes.

Furthermore, by swapping out traditional ingredients for plant-based alternatives, you can relish your favorite comfort foods without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Nachos, for example, are highly adaptable, allowing you to personalize them according to specific dietary needs. The creamy cashew cheese sauce contributes a rich and satisfying flavor while the fresh toppings add vibrancy and color.

Ingredients for Plant Based Nacho Bel Grande

To make your Plant Based Nacho Bel Grande, gather the following ingredients:

For the Nachos:

1 bag of tortilla chips (opt for organic or non-GMO varieties)
1 can (15 oz) of black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup of corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 medium tomato, diced
1/2 red onion, sliced thinly
1 avocado, diced
1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for heat)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Cashew Cheese Sauce:

1 cup raw cashews
2 cups water
1 red bell pepper, de-seeded
3 tablespoons nutritional yeast flakes
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Preparing the Cashew Cheese Sauce

The creamy cashew cheese sauce is the highlight of this recipe. It is easy to make and can be ready in just a few minutes. Here’s how to prepare it:

Blend the Ingredients: Add all ingredients to the blender and blend on high.
Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture on high until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. It usually takes 3-4 minutes to get the creamy texture.
Heat Until Thick: Place in a medium pot and heat on a medium heat, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil and continue stirring for 1 more minute, then remove from heat. It should be the consistency of nacho cheese.

Close-up view of creamy cashew cheese sauce in a bowl

Assembling the Nacho Bel Grande

Now that your cashew cheese sauce is ready, it’s time to build your Plant Based Nacho Bel Grande. Follow these steps for a satisfying layered dish:

Layer the Tortilla Chips: Start by laying a generous layer of tortilla chips on a large serving platter or baking sheet.
Add the Black Beans: Spread the rinsed black beans evenly over the chips. This adds protein, which is essential for a balanced meal.
Sprinkle the Corn: Next, sprinkle the corn, providing a sweet crunch that complements the other ingredients.
Top with Fresh Ingredients: Scatter diced tomatoes, avocado, and jalapeños (if using) over the nachos. This not only adds variety in colors but also boosts flavor and nutrition.
Drizzle with Cashew Cheese Sauce: Generously drizzle the creamy cashew cheese sauce over the top. Use as much as you like—this sauce elevates the dish to another level!
Heat it up: Toss it in the oven at 350F for 5-10 minutes just to warm the whole thing up.
Garnish with Cilantro: Complete your nachos with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a refreshing burst.

High angle view of assembled plant-based nacho bel grande

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Serving Suggestions

Your Plant Based Nacho Bel Grande is ready to serve! Here are some suggestions to enhance your nacho experience:

Serve with Salsa: Pair your nachos with fresh salsa or pico de gallo for an extra flavor boost.
Add Guacamole: Include a side of guacamole for a richer texture and more avocado goodness.
Include Hot Sauce: Offer a variety of hot sauces for those who love a spicy kick.

Tips for Customization

One of the delightful aspects of nachos is their adaptability. Here are a few ways to personalize your Plant Based Nacho Bel Grande:

Experiment with Different Beans: While black beans work well, consider other options like pinto beans, kidney beans, or even lentils for a fresh flavor profile.
Add More Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables such as bell peppers, olives, or green onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
Try Different Cheeses: If feeling adventurous, mix in other plant-based cheese alternatives like shredded vegan cheese or a different nut-based cheese.
Make it Spicy: For extra heat, include diced green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper in the cashew cheese sauce.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftovers, which is often a rarity, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the tortilla chips may become a bit soggy over time. To reheat, pop them in the oven briefly to regain some crispiness before serving again.

Final Thoughts

Creating a Plant Based Nacho Bel Grande with creamy cashew cheese sauce is straightforward and incredibly satisfying. This dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family and is sure to impress even the most dedicated cheese lovers. With its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and wholesome ingredients, this nacho recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic favorite while sticking to a plant-based lifestyle.

So gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy a delicious platter of Plant Based Nacho Bel Grande. Whether it's a casual get-together or a cozy night in, this dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser!