Vegan Cordon Bleu

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan Cordon Bleu brings together the textures and flavors you love from the traditional version—crispy outside, savory and cheesy inside—without any animal products. The tofu pockets hold rich vegan ham and gooey cheese, while the panko coating bakes to golden perfection. Served with a silky cashew Dijon cream sauce, it’s perfect for a special dinner or when you want to impress guests with a hearty plant-based entrée.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the vegan cordon bleu:

• Super firm tofu

• Vegan ham slices

• Vegan Swiss, Gouda, or Provolone cheese

• Unsweetened, unflavored non-dairy milk

• All-purpose flour

• Nutritional yeast

• Salt

• Fresh cracked black pepper

• Poultry seasoning (optional)

• Panko breadcrumbs

For the vegan Dijon cream sauce:

• Soaked raw cashews

• Filtered water

• Nutritional yeast

• Dijon mustard

• Salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare tofu by slicing it in half horizontally to create two 1-inch thick pieces. If using tofu packed in water, press it for 20–30 minutes before slicing.

3. Create a pocket in each tofu piece by making a long slit on the side, leaving space at the ends to keep it intact. Carefully widen the pocket.

4. Stuff each pocket with slices of vegan cheese and vegan ham, trimming as needed.

5. In a bowl, whisk together non-dairy milk, flour, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning to make a thick batter. Place panko in a separate shallow dish.

6. Dip stuffed tofu into the batter, letting excess drip off, then coat fully in panko breadcrumbs. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake for 25 minutes, flip, then bake an additional 15–20 minutes until golden and crisp.

8. For the sauce, blend cashews, water, nutritional yeast, Dijon mustard, and salt until smooth. Adjust thickness with more cashews or water as needed.

9. Let cordon bleu cool slightly before serving with the Dijon cream sauce.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 pieces
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Swap vegan ham for vegan turkey, salami, or pepperoni slices.

• Use gluten-free panko and flour for a gluten-free version.

• Substitute cashews in the sauce with sunflower seeds or white beans for a nut-free alternative.

• Try different vegan cheeses—smoked Gouda or pepper jack add unique flavors.

• Add herbs to the panko for extra seasoning.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through and crispy. The sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I make this without tofu?

Yes, you can use seitan cutlets or thick slices of eggplant for a different texture.

How do I keep the tofu from breaking when making the pocket?

Work slowly with a sharp paring knife and leave enough space at the ends for stability.

Can I pan-fry instead of baking?

Yes, shallow fry in oil over medium heat until golden on both sides, then finish in the oven if needed.

Is there a nut-free sauce option?

Use sunflower seeds or canned white beans instead of cashews.

Can I freeze vegan cordon bleu?

Yes, freeze before baking for the best texture. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.

What’s the best vegan cheese for melting?

Brands that melt well include Violife, Follow Your Heart, and Miyoko’s.

Can I prep it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and bread the tofu up to a day ahead, then bake before serving.

How can I make it oil-free?

Use an oil-free vegan ham and bake on parchment without added oil—texture will be less crispy.

Can I use flavored non-dairy milk?

Stick with unsweetened, unflavored varieties to avoid altering the taste.

What sides go best with vegan cordon bleu?

Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Vegan Cordon Bleu is a show-stopping plant-based entrée that delivers all the crispy, cheesy, savory satisfaction of the original. With its golden crust, smoky ham, creamy sauce, and tender tofu center, it’s a recipe worth making for both special occasions and indulgent weeknight dinners.

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