35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (2024)

Going dairy-free doesn’t mean eating bland and boring meals. In fact, plant-based recipes are some of the most delicious and nutritious meals you can make! Eating a dairy-free diet can be an enjoyable way to boost your health, and we have some easy and tasty recipes for you to try. Also, you’ll love to check out our healthy meal prep ideas and healthy cupcake recipesin case you need more options in healthy recipes.

Not only can you avoid discomfort caused by lactose intolerance, but a dairy-free diet can also reduce certain health risks such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Furthermore, a dairy-free lifestyle may help improve skin conditions and lessen inflammation. As an added bonus, you may even lose weight while still getting all the protein and calcium that your body needs! With these delicious recipes at hand, giving up dairy has never been easier.

Here are the best healthy dairy-free recipes that are sure to become staples in your meal rotation:

OREGANO LEMON CHICKEN AND POTATOES

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (1)

Source: The Whole Cook

For an easy, flavorful dairy-free dinner that only takes 30 minutes to make, try this tasty skillet meal of chicken and potatoes! Fresh oregano, garlic, and a hint of lemon bring out the delicious flavors in every bite. This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners thanks to its simple seasonings like dried herbs and fresh oregano combined with freshly-squeezed lemon juice. Enjoy!

GLUTEN-FREE BEEF STROGANOFF

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (2)

Source: Mama Shire

Prepare your taste buds for a delightful and scrumptious weeknight meal – savory gluten-free beef stroganoff! This one-pot dinner is full of perfectly seasoned meat, tender gluten-free noodles, and a hearty dairy-free sauce to make an inviting dish. With this recipe’s simple clean-up process, you’ll be able to enjoy the flavor without all the fuss.

WHOLE30 CHICKEN BROCCOLI CASSEROLE

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (3)

Source: Downshiftology

Craving a decadent yet healthy Whole30 casserole? Look no further! This dish combines succulent shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and broccoli with delicious Vegan Alfredo Sauce in one nutritious meal. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor – you won’t believe there is no cream or cheese involved. Make it your go-to weeknight dinner bliss!

CREAMY CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (4)

Source: Nyssa’s Kitchen

This scrumptious, dairy-free, and gluten-free Cajun Chicken Pasta is a healthier, lightened-up version of the classic comfort food dish we all know and love. Bursting with zesty flavor in every bite, this cozy recipe is perfect for any night of the week – it’s healthy AND flavorful! Not to mention that there’s even an option for vegan eaters too!

PENNE ALFREDO

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (5)

Source: Unbound Wellness

Make this velvety one-pot penne alfredo with hidden veggies for a comforting dish that is gluten and dairy-free, AND can easily be modified to fit the paleo or AIP diet.

DAIRY-FREE TUSCAN CHICKEN SKILLET

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (6)

Source: Jar of Lemons

Experience a taste sensation with this Dairy-Free Tuscan Chicken recipe! Succulent chicken pieces are smothered in a creamy, savory sauce and combined with mushrooms, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes for an unbeatable combination of flavors. Plus it’s healthy, lower-carb, and Whole30 approved – what more could you ask for? Make this family favorite dish tonight to tantalize your tastebuds like never before!

Related Post: Best Healthy Skillet Recipes

FREEZER TACO RICE CASSEROLE

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (7)

Source: My Life and Kids

Looking for a simple, healthy meal that’s not only gluten-free and dairy-free but also freezer friendly? Then look no further than this scrumptious Taco Rice Casserole! Everyone in the family loves it — even those who don’t eat beef. It makes an excellent dish to make ahead of time or serve up when you have guests over; either way, its flavor is sure to leave everyone wanting more.

HERBY GARLIC STEAK BITES

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (8)

Source: What Molly Made

Are you looking for a delicious, gluten- and dairy-free meal full of garlic and fresh herbs to make in less than 20 minutes? Look no further – these steak bites with potatoes are the perfect one-pan recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds! Taste the crunchy potato skins intermingled with tender steak – this is sure to become your go-to weeknight dinner.

GLUTEN-FREE HONEY SESAME CHICKEN

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (9)

Source: Crave By Saldemar

This gluten-free honey sesame chicken is the ideal solution for your lunch or dinner needs – it’s quick and effortless to make, healthy, and a high protein choice. Even better than take-out food! Serve this over white rice or quinoa with some of your favorite vegetables for a delicious meal that fits within dietary restrictions such as being dairy-free or gluten-free.

TUNA NOODLE CASSEROLE

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (10)

Source: Unbound Wellness

For those looking to stay healthy while still enjoying a comforting classic, this stovetop tuna noodle casserole is a perfect choice. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and easily customized for paleo or AIP diets.

Related Post: Best Healthy Noodle Recipes

ONE PAN CREAMY GARLIC SHRIMP

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (11)

Source: The Movement Menu

Satisfy your entire family with this quick, easy and delicious one-pan creamy garlic shrimp. You’ll have this fantastic meal ready in under 30 minutes, plus it is gluten-free, paleo-friendly, low-carb, and Whole30 compliant!

INSTANT POT WHITE CHICKEN CHILI

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (12)

Source: The Almond Eater

Satisfy your cravings with this flavorful and creamy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili! This gluten-free and dairy-free dish is packed with beans, corn, chicken, and spices – plus all the toppings like cilantro, avocado, and tortilla strips that make it hearty enough to be a meal. Hurry up – let’s get cooking!

5-INGREDIENT PASTA WITH SAUSAGE AND SPINACH

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (13)

Source: Hungry Hobby

Savor every bite of this scrumptious pasta dish with sausage and spinach, prepared in a snap! Not only is it Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free – you can whip it up in under 20 minutes!

GLUTEN-FREE CHICKEN QUESADILLAS

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (14)

Source: Spinach 4 Breakfast

Replace cheese with hummus mixed in chopped avocado for a creamy texture without the guilt, then added grilled chicken and veggies between two brown rice tortillas – making this meal healthy (and still delicious!)

CINNAMON APPLE BREAKFAST QUINOA

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (15)

Source: SImply Quinoa

Start your day off with this nutritious and gluten-free Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Quinoa! Loaded with fiber, protein, and flavor, it’ll keep you feeling full for hours. It’s the perfect way to begin a healthy morning routine.

SLOPPY JOES WITH SWEET POTATOES

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (16)

Source: The Healthy Consultant

Are you ready to dine on something different? Forget the buns! These delectable Whole30 Sloppy Joes with baked sweet potatoes are a warming comfort food meal made from freshly sourced ingredients. It’s not only Paleo, gluten-free, and dairy-free but also easy to make too.

SUMMER PASTA SALAD

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (17)

Source: Ancestral Nutrition

Whether it’s a picnic, barbecue, or cookout, this incredible gluten-free and dairy-free summer pasta salad will be the talk of your next gathering! Effortless to prepare yet absolutely delicious, you won’t regret adding this mouthwatering side dish to your menu.

CREAMY GARLIC CHICKEN

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (18)

Source: Get Inspired Everyday

This dairy-free comfort food masterpiece is none other than this scrumptious Creamy Garlic Chicken! Imagine succulent chicken sautéed in a decadent, garlicky creamy sauce – the perfect balance of savory and sophisticated. Not only does it taste amazing but you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how effortless it is to make!

THAI CURRY

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (19)

Source: Bananas About Life

This vegan recipe is free of dairy, gluten, soy, refined sugar, and nuts. Be sure to double-check that the curry paste you are using has all the same elements!

DAIRY-FREE TATER TOT CASSEROLE

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (20)

Source: The Fit Cookie

Treat your family to this creamy, cheesy Dairy Free Tater Tot Casserole – one of the top go-to comfort food recipes. With a variety of veggies and no need for condensed soup, it’s sure to become an instant household favorite!

NO-BAKE PEANUT BUTTER PROTEIN COOKIES

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (21)

Source: Healthy Little Peach

Indulge your sweet tooth guilt-free with my scrumptious No Bake Peanut Butter Protein Cookies! Packed with 5 grams of protein in each delicious treat, these cookies are the perfect solution for anyone looking to satisfy their cravings without compromising health. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and macro-friendly – they’re irresistible!

HEALTHY CHOCOLATE OVERNIGHT OATS

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (22)

Source: Nutrition in the Kitch

Craving a luxuriously decadent breakfast or dessert? Then this delectable chocolate overnight oats recipe is the perfect treat. And it’s so simple that even novice cooks can make it with ease! What’s more, gluten-free and dairy-free eaters will appreciate its vegan ingredients – you choose whether to enjoy your creation in the morning or after dinner!

HEALTHY STRAWBERRY OATMEAL BARS

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (23)

Source: Bananas About Life

If you’re looking for the perfect baking experience, these healthy strawberry oatmeal bars should definitely be your next project! The crumbly texture of the oat-based crust provides a solid foundation to complement the delightful layer of fresh strawberries. Not only are they tantalizingly tasty and make an ideal dessert, but also work well as breakfast or snacks. Plus, this delectable treat is vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and refined sugar-free – so everyone can enjoy it guilt-free!

Related Post: Best Healthy Strawberry Recipes

DAIRY-FREE CARBONARA PASTA

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (24)

Source: White Kitchen Red Wine

With its quick 30-minute prep time and healthy, dairy-free ingredients, this Dairy Free Carbonara is the perfect dinner – making it a great substitute for more caloric versions. What’s not to love about an easy pasta dinner that won’t break your dietary bank? Sign me up!

HEALTHY SPINACH ARTICHOKE DIP

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (25)

Source: Downshiftology

Are you in search of a healthy and delectable appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more? Then this Spinach Artichoke Dip is the answer. Incorporating spinach, artichoke hearts, onions, garlic, mayonnaise, and cashew cream – this scrumptious dish only gets better as it bakes until golden perfection. Your friends won’t be able to tell it’s dairy-free; they’ll simply rave about how delicious it tastes!

CAJUN SHRIMP TACOS

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (26)

Source: Honey What’s Cooking

Indulge in our scrumptious Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Cream Sauce – a tantalizing fusion of zesty, spicy cajun shrimp paired perfectly with the rich and creamy vegan sauce. Delight your taste buds!

DAIRY-FREE SCALLOPED POTATOES

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (27)

Source: Pure and Simple Nourishment

Discover the creamiest, dairy-free scalloped potatoes recipe that’s bursting with cheesy flavor! Enjoy this vegan, gluten-free, paleo and Whole30 compliant dish made of russet potatoes, nutritional yeast, almond flour, and coconut milk. This delicious dinner option will not only tantalize your taste buds but also provide you with an allergen-friendly meal.

GLUTEN AND DAIRY FREE LASAGNA

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (28)

Source: Minimalist Baker

If you’re looking for a healthier, gluten- and dairy-free rendition of classic lasagna that’s also vegan-friendly, then look no further. This recipe is here to save the day with just 10 easy ingredients! Plus, it couldn’t be simpler to make – so what are you waiting for?

RAINBOW CHICKEN FAJITAS

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (29)

Source: Chronically Gluten Free

Mexican cuisine is a delightful treat of flavors and spices that make it stand out from the rest. Not only is it tasty, but you won’t have to worry about gluten and dairy either since all the ingredients are fresh and natural!

Related Post: Best Healthy Chicken Recipes

PALEO PIZZA CASSEROLE

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (30)

Source: Paleo Running Momma

Treat your family to something special with this mouthwatering Paleo Pizza Casserole! Crafted without any gluten, grains, or dairy, it’s packed full of veggies and savory fillings like sausage, pepperoni, garlic, and cassava pasta. All you need is some cheese sauce and pizza sauce for the perfect paleo-friendly dish that will have everyone going back for seconds…or thirds! Not only does it taste delicious but leftovers are just as good (if not better)!

VEGAN QUESADILLAS WITH BLACK BEANS AND AVOCADO

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (31)

Source: Lemons and Zest

Don’t have the time to cook dinner but still want delicious food? Try these Vegan Quesadillas with black beans and avocado, plus corn, cilantro, and spices. This 10-minute recipe is simple enough for anyone – just throw it all together! You’ll savor every mouthful of this effortless yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

DAIRY FREE BLUEBERRY MUFFINS

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (32)

Source: Key to my Lime

Indulge in a guilt-free treat with these delectable, dairy-free blueberry muffins! Preparing this recipe is straightforward and requires only one bowl. It’s quick to make too; enjoy a tasty snack without spending hours in the kitchen.

HOMEMADE OATMEAL CREME PIES

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (33)

Source: Dishing Out Health

Upgrade your snack-time favorites with these homemade oatmeal creme pies! Made with all-natural, dairy-free ingredients like coconut sugar, whole grains, and heart-healthy walnuts – they’ll quickly become a staple in any kitchen. These healthier snacks will keep you fueled throughout the day without sacrificing taste or quality.

DAIRY-FREE POTATO SOUP

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (34)

Source: The Whole Cook

In only 30 minutes, you can enjoy a velvety-smooth Potato Soup that is completely dairy-free and gluten-free! And best of all, it’s Whole30 compliant too. Don’t believe us? Try this recipe out for yourself – we guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

DAIRY-FREE SHEPHERD’S PIE

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (35)

Source: Eating Gluten & Dairy Free

For a cozy and comforting family meal, try this gluten-free and dairy-free Shepherd’s Pie. Savory ground beef is blended with tender carrots and celery for an irresistible filling, topped by a light layer of creamy mashed potatoes. Serve it up to make your loved ones smile!

PALEO LEMON POPPY SEED PANCAKES

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (36)

Source: Bake It Paleo

Fluffy and subtly sweetened, these Paleo Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes are the ideal way to start your Sunday morning! Light yet filling, they’re a delicious and nutritious breakfast option. Indulge in this healthy lemon pancake recipe for an unforgettable taste experience that’s sure to leave you wanting more.

CHICKPEA VEGETABLE NUGGETS

35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (37)

Source: The Natural Nurturer

This recipe for Chickpea Vegetable Nuggets is ideal for tiny taste buds! Filled with veggies and vegetarian-friendly protein, these delicious little nuggets are surprisingly easy to make. Enjoy them on their own instead of traditional meatballs or dip them in your favorite sauces — either way, you’ll love the flavor!

Eating dairy-free doesn’t have to be boring! These recipes prove that going dairy free doesn’t mean sacrificing the flavor — plus they’re all healthy options full of good nutrition that will help keep you feeling energized throughout the day. From quick dinners to sweet treats, there’s something here for everyone looking to switch up their diet without sacrificing taste! So give these recipes a try today — your body will thank you later!

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  • Lucero, Claudia (Author)
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35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (40)

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35+ Delicious & Easy Healthy Dairy-Free Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What foods are surprisingly dairy free? ›

18 Treats You Might Not Know Are Dairy-Free
  • Duncan Hines Brownie Mix. sweets.seriouseats.com. ...
  • Sorbet (most brands) haagendazs.com. ...
  • Coconut Bliss Ice Cream. ...
  • Marshmallows & Marshmallow Creme. ...
  • Graham Crackers and Teddy Grahams. ...
  • Dark Chocolate (most brands) ...
  • Ready-Made Frosting (most brands) ...
  • Pop-Tarts (some flavors)
Sep 17, 2013

How to go completely dairy free? ›

What can you eat on a dairy-free diet?
  1. Fruits and vegetables.
  2. Meat & poultry.
  3. Fish & seafood.
  4. Eggs.
  5. Nuts & seeds.
  6. Soy products, such as tofu and tempeh.
  7. Beans & legumes.
  8. Whole grains, such as quinoa and couscous.

What cuisine is best for dairy free? ›

Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese are all virtually dairy free. African, Indian, Greek, and Italian require a bit more care, but these cuisines are also loaded with numerous dairy free options.

What food is dairy free? ›

You can eat fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, beans, whole grains, beans, tofu, tempeh, meat and fish on a dairy free diet. This is just a short list, and you can enjoy many other foods. Are eggs dairy? No, eggs are not dairy because they do not contain milk.

What sweets can dairy-free eat? ›

Types of Dairy-Free Sweets

From gummy bears to hard candies, and from chocolate bars to fruity chews, there's something to satisfy every sweet tooth. With popular brands such as Haribo, Crazy Candy Factory, Kingsway, and Jelly Belly offering dairy-free sweets, it is possible to make a delicious and inclusive range.

What happens if you suddenly stop eating dairy? ›

There's a lack of evidence on whether eliminating dairy products leads to withdrawal symptoms. Instead, you may risk developing nutrient deficiencies if you do not replace dairy products with other sources of calcium, protein, and vitamins B12 and D.

What does cutting out dairy do to your body? ›

Diets low in dairy have been shown to lower inflammation . Inflammation may promote the growth of unhealthy gut bacteria linked to some chronic diseases or conditions including leaky gut. Inflammation-causing foods — when they cause problems in the digestive tract — can lead to diarrhea, headaches, and fatigue.

What happens if your body doesn't get enough dairy? ›

If you're not able to, or choose not to, eat dairy products, you may be at risk of not getting enough calcium in your diet.

What to avoid when dairy is free? ›

Which Foods Contain Dairy?
  • milk (including dry/powdered milk)
  • buttermilk.
  • cheese.
  • yogurt.
  • cream/half and half.
  • ice cream.
  • butter and ghee.
  • pudding and custard.

What bread is dairy-free? ›

  • LOWCARB AVENUE NEVER COMPROMISELOWCARB AVENUE NEVER…
  • Young Kobras.
  • Extra White GoldExtra White Gold.
  • Judee's Gluten FreeJudee's Gluten Free.
  • Stern's Bakery.
  • Little Northern BakehouseLittle Northern Bakehouse.
  • Joseph's.
  • Hero.

What to eat when you can't eat dairy? ›

Calcium and Vitamin D
  • fish with soft bones, such as canned salmon or sardines.
  • broccoli and leafy green vegetables.
  • oranges.
  • almonds, Brazil nuts, and dried beans.
  • tofu.
  • products with labels that show they have added calcium, such as some cereals, fruit juices, and soy milk.

What butter is dairy-free? ›

Brands to look for are Earth Balance Vegan Buttery Sticks and Melt Organic Vegan Butter Sticks, both plant-based and made to taste like butter. Blue Bonnet Lactose-Free sticks are made with vegetable oil and are dairy-free and gluten-free, and have the "same great taste as Blue Bonnet."

What foods to avoid if you can't have dairy? ›

All cow's milk products contain dairy, including:
  • milk (including dry/powdered milk)
  • buttermilk.
  • cheese.
  • yogurt.
  • cream/half and half.
  • ice cream.
  • butter and ghee.
  • pudding and custard.

Do Oreos have dairy in them? ›

Oreo cookies do not contain any animal-derived ingredients and are safe to eat for vegans. If you have a dairy allergy, keep in mind that Oreos have milk as cross-contact.

What has hidden dairy in it? ›

Surprising Foods That Contain Milk
  • Caseinates (ammonia, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium)
  • Canned tuna fish.
  • Chewing gum.
  • Deli meat.
  • Dips and salad dressings.
  • Goat's milk.
  • Hot dogs.
  • Instant mashed potatoes.
Sep 17, 2020

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