When embarking on a Whole30 journey, you might sigh at the thought of giving up cheese. But fear not! The culinary landscape is rich with Whole30-compatible dairy-free cheese options that can add some oomph where you need it. In this roundup, we explore 15 “cheesy” Whole30 recipes that prove giving up dairy (even if temporarily) can be easier than you think.
Understanding Whole30 “cheese”
Although traditional dairy-derived cheese is a no-go during a Whole30, there is a world of compatible dairy-free cheeses. These include:
- Almond-based “ricotta” or “cream cheeses,” like select varieties from Kite Hill. (See more on that here.)
- Cashew-based “queso” dips
- Nut-based Alfredo sauces
- Nutritional yeast for that cheesy, umami flavor (similar to Parmesan)
These alternatives offer creaminess, flavor, and richness to dishes like burgers, salads, and veggie noodles. They’re also excellent for dipping veggies or meat sticks.
However, reflecting on whether Whole30 “cheese” aligns with your personal goals is important. If these dishes trigger cravings or don’t support your health objectives, skip them! Whole30 is all about personalizing your Whole30 to meet your health, habits, and relationship with food goals.
About dairy reintroduction
During your Whole30 reintroduction (days 31-45-ish), consider breaking your dairy reintroduction out further, over three days instead of one. This can help you determine whether the source, age, or lactose content of various cheeses affects how they work in your body.
Many of the recipes below can be adapted with traditional cheeses, but here are some helpful tips and considerations if you plan to dig deeper with dairy during your Whole30 reintroduction:
- First, reintroduce hard, aged cheeses. Sprinkle parmesan or pecorino onto your zoodles, eggs, or potatoes, or add an ounce or two of extra-aged gouda to your snack. In these cheeses, the lactose is generally aged out (consumed by microbes as a food source).
- Then, try semi-hard cheeses. These are anything you can shred or crumble, like cheddar, feta, or young gouda. Use them in any recipe that calls for shredded cheese, or as an addition to salads or bunless burgers.
- Finally, reintroduce softer cheese (like a ripe brie), or a younger fresh cheese like ricotta, mozzarella, or cream cheese. Use these in casseroles, dips, as a side to your snack, or over spaghetti squash with bolognese.
15 Whole30 dairy-free cheese recipes
- Whole30 Buffalo Chicken Dip – Your favorite hot wing as a satisfying dip. Perfect for game days or gatherings!
- Whole30 Spaghetti Casserole – A comforting classic reimagined without the dairy.
- Whole30 Million Dollar Chicken Casserole – Rich in flavor and utterly divine.
- Whole30 Chicken Alfredo – A creamy, dreamy veggie noodle dish that’s completely dairy-free.
- Grilled Romaine Caesar Salad with Dairy-Free Parmesan – A fresh twist on a salad classic.
- Whole30 7-Layer Dip – Perfect for parties, this dip won’t disappoint.
- Dairy-Free Cheeseburger Casserole – A hearty, family-friendly meal.
- Whole30 Dairy-Free “Butter” Board – A creative spread for your favorite Whole30 dippers.
- Whole30 Enchilada Dip Bake – A flavor-packed crowd-pleaser with just the right amount of zing.
- Whole30 Loaded Baked Potato Casserole – Comfort food at its finest.
- Whole30 Ham and Hash Brown Casserole – A breakfast or brunch must-have with a mouthwatering crunchy topping.
- Whole30 Hot Artichoke-Parsley Dip with Roasted Fingerling Dippers – Elegant and flavorful, perfect for festivities!
- Whole30 Tuna Noodle Casserole – A nostalgic dish made Whole30 friendly.
- Whole30 Pesto Scalloped Potatoes – A side dish that steals the show.
- Whole30 “Cheese” Ball – Two Ways – One savory, one sweet to please everyone at your table!
Add one of these Whole30 recipes to your meal plan, and discover a world of flavorful, dairy-free meals that don’t compromise on taste!
