Yes! Absolutely. You can use cream cheese, sour cream, or even cashew cream for a rich sauce, or veggie broth with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Introduction
Mac and cheese, that gooey, cheesy pasta dish, is a true comfort food classic. It’s loved by people of all ages for its rich flavor and satisfying texture. But what if you can’t enjoy dairy?
Whether due to lactose intolerance, a dairy-free diet, or simply an empty fridge, you might think creamy mac and cheese is off-limits.
Fear not! You can still achieve that same decadent, cheesy experience with a few clever substitutions.
Can You Make Mac and Cheese Without Milk?
Absolutely! There are a couple of ways to make mac and cheese without milk, depending on if you’re looking for a dairy-free or just a milk-free version.
For a Milk-Free Version
Creamy Cheese Sauce: You can use a combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and pasta water to create a rich and creamy sauce. The cream cheese acts as a binder, the sour cream adds tang, and the pasta water helps thin it out while adding starch for a good consistency.
Evaporated Milk: This is a shelf-stable option that adds creaminess without needing regular milk. You can use it along with eggs and mustard to create a sauce similar to traditional mac and cheese.
For a Dairy-Free Version
Cashew Cream: This is a popular vegan alternative that uses soaked cashews blended with water and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Vegetable Stock and Nutritional Yeast: You can create a sauce base using vegetable stock, nutritional yeast, and butter or vegan butter. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami flavor.
Here are some resources for recipes that don’t use milk:
Mac and Cheese without Milk https://www.foxvalleyfoodie.com/
Mac and Cheese (Without Milk) http://cooktopcove.com/2024/02/26/made-this-for-dinner-and-def-saving-the-recipe-for-next-time-0-leftovers/
Mac and Cheese Without Milk | Everyday Family Cooking https://www.collegenutritionist.com/blog/substitutes-for-milk-in-mac-and-cheese/
What are the substitutes of milk for mac and cheese?
Milk plays a key role in creating a creamy and flavorful cheese sauce in traditional mac and cheese. Here’s a breakdown of its function and some substitutes you can explore depending on your dietary needs:
Milk in Traditional Mac and Cheese
Milk acts as the base for the cheese sauce in mac and cheese. When combined with butter and flour, it creates a roux, which is a thickening agent that gives the sauce its signature smooth and creamy texture.
Milk also adds richness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Milk-Free Substitutes
If you’re looking for milk-free alternatives, here are some options to consider:
| Substitute | Benefit | Notes |
| Cream Cheese | Adds a thick and tangy texture to the sauce. | May require additional milk or water to achieve desired consistency. |
| Sour Cream | Adds a similar creamy texture as milk with a slight tang. | May require reducing heat to prevent curdling. |
| Evaporated Milk | More concentrated than milk, offering a richer and creamier sauce. | May require less milk or water in the recipe. |
Dairy-Free Substitutes
For those following a dairy-free diet, these substitutes can help you achieve a creamy and flavorful cheese sauce:
| Substitute | Benefit | Notes |
| Cashew Cream | Made by blending soaked cashews with water or broth. Offers a neutral and creamy base, perfect for various flavor additions. | May require adjustments to achieve desired consistency. |
| Vegetable Stock with Nutritional Yeast | Creates a flavorful and dairy-free sauce base. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy umami flavor. | May require thickening agents like cornstarch or arrowroot powder. |
With a little creativity, you can enjoy a delicious mac and cheese regardless of your dietary restrictions.
How to craft the perfect cheese sauce without milk?
Here’s a breakdown of the general steps for making a cheese sauce, minus the milk:
- Melt Butter: Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Roux Time: Whisk in flour and cook for a minute or two, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This is the thickening agent for your sauce.
- Flavor Boost (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, you can whisk in some broth, wine, or beer at this stage.
- Cheese Time! Gradually whisk in your grated cheese until melted and smooth. You can adjust the amount depending on the desired cheesiness.
- Seasoning: Season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer.
Milk-Free Cheese Sauce Recipe
This recipe uses cream cheese for a tangy and creamy sauce:
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp Flour
- 1 cup Vegetable Broth (or water)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for a minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in vegetable broth until smooth. Let simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat and whisk in softened cream cheese until melted and incorporated.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and whisk until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Dairy-Free Cheese Sauce Option
For a dairy-free version, use cashew cream instead of cream cheese:
Substitute:
Replace cream cheese with 1 cup Cashew Cream (made by blending soaked cashews with water or broth until smooth)
Notes:
- You may need to adjust the amount of water or broth used in the cashew cream to achieve the desired consistency.
- Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy umami flavor.
- Thickeners like cornstarch or arrowroot powder can be used if the sauce seems too thin (mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce).
Enjoy your delicious and creamy cheese sauce, regardless of your dietary needs!
Building Your Mac and Cheese Masterpiece
Now that you have a fantastic cheese sauce recipe, let’s talk about building your mac and cheese masterpiece.
Pasta Perfection
Shape Matters: Select a short, sturdy pasta shape like elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or shells. These shapes hold the creamy cheese sauce well, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Al Dente is Key: Cook your pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for “al dente” which means “to the tooth” in Italian. This indicates a slight firmness in the pasta, offering the best texture for mac and cheese.
Customization Fun
Feel free to get creative and personalize your mac and
Baking, Serving, and Enjoying!
Now that you’ve built your perfect mac and cheese, here’s how to bring it all together:
Baking for a Golden Crust (if your recipe includes baking):
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your cheese sauce recipe (usually around 350°F).
- Transfer your cooked pasta and cheese sauce mixture to a greased baking dish.
Optional: Top with breadcrumbs, panko crumbs, or crushed crackers for a crispy golden crust. Drizzle with melted butter for extra flavor.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serving Up Deliciousness (if your recipe doesn’t involve baking):
Simply spoon your cooked pasta and cheese sauce mixture into bowls and serve immediately.
Broiling for Extra Crisp (Optional):
For a quick and delicious finishing touch, you can broil your mac and cheese for a few minutes before serving. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Dietary-Friendly and Delicious!
Remember, with the variety of milk and cheese substitutes available, everyone can enjoy a delicious and satisfying mac and cheese creation. So get creative, experiment with flavors, and indulge in your own homemade masterpiece!
FAQs
What can I use instead of milk in mac and cheese?
For a creamy mac and cheese without milk, try cream cheese, sour cream, or cashew cream for a rich sauce. For dairy-free, use vegetable broth with nutritional yeast for a cheesy punch!
Is it okay to use water instead of milk in mac and cheese?
Water won’t make a creamy sauce, but you can use it in a pinch. Reserve pasta water for a lighter, starchy sauce instead.
What happens if you don’t put milk in mac and cheese?
Skipping milk in mac and cheese means a less creamy sauce. It might be runny or have a stronger cheese flavor. You can use substitutes like cream cheese or broth for a better texture.
Do you have to use whole milk for mac and cheese?
No! You can use lower-fat milk (2% or skim) or even skip milk entirely with substitutes like cream cheese or broth for a creamy sauce.
Conclusion
This guide has shown you that creating a delicious and creamy mac and cheese doesn’t require milk.
You’ve explored the magic of roux, discovered substitutes like cream cheese, cashew cream, and vegetable stock, and learned how to customize your dish with various pastas, cheeses, and add-ins.
So, grab your favorite ingredients, unleash your creativity, and embark on a journey to discover your perfect mac and cheese masterpiece! Remember, there are no wrong turns, just endless possibilities for deliciousness. Happy cooking!