Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, also known as metabolic associated fatty liver disease, is the most common chronic liver disease in the world. Studies have found that nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease itself may be an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In view of the close association between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disease, this article reviews the pathophysiological mechanisms linking nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disease, and provides ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.