Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is enjoyed by many. The traditional recipe calls for milk, which gives the dish its creamy and cheesy consistency. However, not everyone can consume milk due to various reasons such as lactose intolerance, veganism, or dietary restrictions.
In this post, we will explore some of the best substitutes for milk in mac and cheese, including alternative milk options, non-dairy creamers, and broth-based or water-based substitutes.
Why Substitute Milk in Mac and Cheese
Before we dive into the alternatives, let’s first discuss why someone may need to substitute milk in mac and cheese. The most common reason is lactose intolerance, which affects about 65% of the global population. This means that many people cannot consume dairy products without experiencing digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Veganism is another reason why someone may choose to substitute milk in mac and cheese. Vegans do not consume any animal products, including milk, cheese, and butter. Therefore, they need to find alternative options to make their mac and cheese dish.
Dietary restrictions are also a common reason why someone may substitute milk in mac and cheese. For example, people who follow a low-fat diet may want to avoid using milk to reduce their calorie and fat intake. Additionally, some people may have allergies to certain types of milk or may be following a specific diet, such as the paleo or keto diet, that restricts the use of dairy products.
By substituting milk, you can create a healthier, more inclusive version of the classic dish without compromising on taste or texture.
Great Substitutes for Milk in Mac and Cheese
One of the easiest and most popular substitutes for milk in mac and cheese is alternative milk. Here are some of the most commonly used options:
Almond Milk
Almond milk is made from blending almonds with water and straining the mixture to remove the pulp. It has a slightly nutty flavor and a thin consistency, making it an excellent option for mac and cheese. Almond milk is also low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for those on a low-fat diet.
Tips: Use unsweetened almond milk to avoid any added sugars that may affect the taste of the dish. Also, note that almond milk may separate when exposed to heat, so stir it constantly to prevent clumps.
Soy Milk
Soy milk is made from soybeans and water and has a creamy texture similar to cow’s milk. It also has a mild flavor that complements the cheesy taste of mac and cheese. Soy milk is rich in protein and calcium, making it a great choice for vegans and those who need to increase their nutrient intake.
Tips: Use unsweetened soy milk to avoid any added sugars. Also, be careful when heating soy milk as it can curdle if exposed to high temperatures.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is made from blending coconut meat with water and has a thick, creamy consistency that adds richness and depth to mac and cheese. It has a slightly sweet flavor that may not be suitable for all taste preferences, but it works well with spicy or savory dishes. Coconut milk is also high in saturated fat.
Tips: Use light coconut milk to reduce the fat content and avoid overpowering the dish with a coconut flavor. Also, shake the can of coconut milk well before opening to ensure that the cream and water are well mixed.
Oat Milk
Oat milk is made from blending oats with water and straining the mixture to remove any solids. It has a mild, creamy flavor and a thicker consistency than almond or soy milk. Oat milk is also high in fiber and low in fat, making it a good choice for those with digestive issues or on a low-fat diet.
Tips: Use unsweetened oat milk to avoid any added sugars. Also, be aware that oat milk may thicken when exposed to heat, so add more liquid if necessary.
Cashew Milk
Cashew milk is made from blending cashews with water and straining the mixture to remove any solids. It has a rich, nutty flavor and a creamy consistency that makes it an excellent option for mac and cheese. Cashew milk is also high in protein and healthy fats, making it a good choice for those who need to increase their nutrient intake.
Tips: Soak the cashews overnight before blending to soften them and ensure a smooth texture. Also, use unsweetened cashew milk to avoid any added sugars.
Non-Dairy Creamers
Non-dairy creamers are a convenient option for those who want to substitute milk in mac and cheese but do not want to use alternative milk. Here are some of the most popular non-dairy creamers:
Coconut Cream
Coconut cream is a thick, creamy liquid that is extracted from coconut meat. It has a rich, coconut flavor and a high fat content that makes it an excellent substitute for milk in mac and cheese. Coconut cream is also a good source of fiber and healthy fats, making it a healthy option.
Tips: Use unsweetened coconut cream to avoid any added sugars. Also, be aware that coconut cream may thicken when exposed to heat, so add more liquid if necessary.
Nut-Based Creamers
Nut-based creamers are made from blending nuts with water and straining the mixture to remove any solids. They have a creamy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the cheesy taste of mac and cheese. Nut-based creamers are also high in healthy fats and protein, making them a nutritious option.
Tips: Use unsweetened nut-based creamers to avoid any added sugars. Also, be aware that nut-based creamers may separate when exposed to heat, so stir them constantly to prevent clumps.
Broth-Based Substitutes
If you want to add more depth and flavor to your mac and cheese dish, you can use broth-based substitutes instead of milk. Here are some of the most commonly used options:
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth is made from simmering chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs in water. It has a rich, savory flavor that enhances the cheesy taste of mac and cheese. Chicken broth is also low in calories and fat, making it a good option for those on a low-fat diet.
Tips: Use unsalted chicken broth to avoid any added sodium. Also, be aware that chicken broth may contain traces of gluten or other allergens, so read the label carefully.
Veggie Broth
Veggie broth is made from simmering vegetables, herbs, and spices in water. It has a light, savory flavor that complements the cheesy taste of mac and cheese. Veggie broth is also low in calories and fat, making it a good option for those on a low-fat diet or who are vegetarian or vegan.
Tips: Use low-sodium veggie broth to avoid any added sodium. Also, be aware that veggie broth may contain traces of gluten or other allergens, so read the label carefully.
FAQs
Can I use water instead of milk in mac and cheese?
While water can technically be used as a substitute for milk in mac and cheese, it will result in a less creamy and flavorful dish. We recommend using one of the alternative milk or creamer options listed in this article for the best results.
Can I use sweetened milk substitutes in mac and cheese?
We recommend using unsweetened milk substitutes to avoid any added sugars in your dish. Sweetened options may alter the flavor and texture of the mac and cheese.
Will using a non-dairy substitute affect the texture of the mac and cheese?
Depending on the substitute used, it may affect the texture of the mac and cheese. For example, nut-based creamers may separate when exposed to heat, while coconut cream may thicken. It’s important to follow the tips provided for each substitute to ensure the best results.
