Craving that classic mac and cheese, but need a milk substitute? We get it – that cheesy goodness is hard to resist! Whether you want to ditch the dairy or just mix it up, there are awesome options out there.
Maybe you're out of milk, want a plant-based option, have a lactose issue, or just love experimenting. We've got options for you, whether you're dairy-free or just in the mood for something different!
Looking for dairy-free 
or vegan 
substitutes? Easy. We've labeled the substitutes so you know what options are best for you.
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Tips for Choosing the Right Substitute
- Flavor match - Do you want a neutral base, a hint of nuttiness (almond), or a tropical touch (coconut)? Choose a substitute that complements your cheesy vision.
- Creamy or light? Thicker substitutes (oat, cashew, coconut) yield richer mac and cheese. Thinner options (almond, soy) work well too, but may require slightly more cheese or thickening techniques.
- Check the stats - Need an extra boost of creaminess? Look for substitutes with a bit more fat and protein (soy, coconut).
- Experiment! The best substitute is the one you love. Don't be afraid to try different options and discover your favorites.
- Read those labels - Unsweetened is usually best for mac and cheese. Watch out for additives that could change the flavor or texture of your dish.
- Dietary needs first - Allergies or sensitivities? Make sure your substitute is safe and enjoyable for you!
Best All-Around Substitute
Unsweetened Almond Milk - Almond milk wins for its neutral, slightly nutty flavor that won't compete with your cheese, plus its wide availability. Here's why it's a smart swap:
- Healthier profile - Significantly fewer calories, fat, and sugar than whole milk.
- Easy to use - Substitute 1:1 for milk. For extra creaminess, add a touch of cornstarch, flour, or arrowroot powder (start with 1 tablespoon per cup of milk).
- Protein tip -While lower in protein than cow's milk, this is easily offset by adding other protein sources like chicken, broccoli, or peas to your mac.
1 cup whole milk = 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk = 30 calories, 1 g protein, 2.5 g fat, 0 g sugar
Dairy Substitutes
1. Evaporated Milk
- Evaporated milk is a concentrated form of milk that provides a rich and creamy texture to your mac and cheese. It's a great option if you don't have fresh milk on hand.
- Evaporated milk has a slightly lower calorie and fat content compared to whole milk, making it a good choice if you're looking to reduce your calorie intake.
1 cup whole milk = ½ cup evaporated milk + ½ cup water
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk + ½ cup water = 135 calories, 7 g protein, 7 g fat, 11 g sugar
2. Powdered Milk
- Powdered milk, also known as dry milk, is a convenient shelf-stable option that can be easily reconstituted with water to replace fresh milk in your mac and cheese recipe.
- Powdered milk has a similar nutritional profile to whole milk, but it has a slightly longer shelf life and can be stored without refrigeration.
1 cup whole milk = ⅓ cup powdered milk + 1 cup water
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- ⅓ cup powdered milk + 1 cup water = 140 calories, 8 g protein, 7 g fat, 12 g sugar
3. Half-and-Half
- Half-and-half is a mixture of equal parts whole milk and cream, providing a rich and luxurious texture to your mac and cheese.
- Half-and-half has a higher fat content compared to whole milk, making it a good choice if you're looking for a creamier dish.
1 cup whole milk = 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- 1 cup half-and-half = 315 calories, 7 g protein, 28 g fat, 10 g sugar
4. Cream Cheese
- Cream cheese is a rich and creamy substitute that can add a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to your mac and cheese. It's a good option if you're looking for a thicker and more indulgent dish.
- Cream cheese is higher in fat and calories compared to whole milk, so it should be used in moderation if you're watching your calorie intake.
1 cup whole milk = ½ cup cream cheese + ½ cup water
- Melt the cream cheese in a saucepan with water over low heat, stirring until smooth and well combined.
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- ½ cup cream cheese + ½ cup water = 400 calories, 7 g protein, 39 g fat, 6 g sugar
5. Plain Yogurt
- Plain yogurt is a tangy and creamy substitute that can add a subtle tartness to your mac and cheese. It's a good option if you're looking for a healthier alternative with added probiotics.
- Plain yogurt is lower in calories and fat compared to whole milk, and it contains beneficial probiotics that support digestive health.
1 cup whole milk = ¾ cup plain yogurt + ¼ cup water
- If using a thicker yogurt, you may need to thin it out with additional water to achieve the desired consistency.
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- ¾ cup plain yogurt + ¼ cup water = 140 calories, 10 g protein, 7 g fat, 9 g sugar
6. Plain Greek Yogurt
- Plain Greek yogurt is a thick, creamy, and protein-rich substitute that can add a tangy flavor and velvety texture to your mac and cheese. It's a great option if you're looking to boost the protein content of your dish.
- Greek yogurt is lower in calories and fat compared to whole milk, and it contains significantly more protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
1 cup whole milk = ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt + ¼ cup water
- Greek yogurt is thicker than regular yogurt, so you may need to thin it out with more water to achieve the desired consistency. Additionally, the tanginess of Greek yogurt may be more pronounced, so you might want to adjust the amount of cheese or add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt + ¼ cup water = 165 calories, 20 g protein, 5 g fat, 9 g sugar
7. Sour Cream
- Sour cream is a tangy and creamy alternative that can add a unique flavor profile to your mac and cheese. It's a good option if you're looking to add some zing to your dish.
- Sour cream is higher in fat and calories compared to whole milk, so it should be used sparingly if you're watching your calorie intake.
1 cup whole milk = ½ cup sour cream + ½ cup water
- Due to the tanginess of sour cream, you may want to adjust the amount of cheese or add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- ½ cup sour cream + ½ cup water = 240 calories, 3 g protein, 24 g fat, 5 g sugar
8. Heavy Cream
- Heavy cream, also known as heavy whipping cream, is a high-fat dairy product that can add a luxuriously rich and creamy texture to your mac and cheese. It's a good option if you're looking for an ultra-indulgent dish.
- Heavy cream is significantly higher in calories and fat compared to whole milk, making it a less health-conscious choice. However, it can be used in smaller quantities to achieve a richer flavor and texture.
- Consider using a combination of heavy cream and a lower-fat milk alternative to achieve the desired richness without going overboard on the calories and fat.
1 cup whole milk = ½ cup heavy cream + ½ cup water
- Due to the high fat content of heavy cream, you may need to adjust the amount of cheese or other ingredients to balance the richness of the dish.
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream + ½ cup water = 410 calories, 3 g protein, 44 g fat, 3 g sugar
Vegan & Dairy-Free Substitutes
9. Unsweetened Almond Milk
- Unsweetened almond milk is a popular, nutty-flavored milk alternative made from almonds and water. It's low in calories and a good source of vitamin E.
- Almond milk is significantly lower in calories and sugar compared to whole milk, making it a good choice for those watching their calorie intake or following a low-sugar diet.
1 cup whole milk = 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk = 30 calories, 1 g protein, 2.5 g fat, 0 g sugar
10. Soy Milk
- Soy milk is a classic dairy-free alternative made from soybeans. It has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly beany flavor. It's a good source of plant-based protein and is often fortified with calcium and vitamin D.
- Soy milk is lower in calories and fat compared to whole milk, and it provides a good amount of plant-based protein.
1 cup whole milk = 1 cup soy milk
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- 1 cup soy milk = 105 calories, 6 g protein, 4.5 g fat, 9 g sugar
11. Coconut Milk
- Coconut milk is a creamy, tropical-flavored milk alternative made from the flesh of mature coconuts. It's rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and can add a unique flavor to your mac and cheese.
- Coconut milk is a good source of MCTs, which are easily digestible fats that can provide quick energy. However, it is higher in calories and fat compared to whole milk.
1 cup whole milk = 1 cup coconut milk
- Due to the distinct coconut flavor, you may want to adjust the amount of cheese or add complementary spices to balance the taste.
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- 1 cup coconut milk = 445 calories, 5 g protein, 48 g fat, 6 g sugar
12. Rice Milk
- Rice milk is a mild-tasting, dairy-free alternative made from milled rice and water. It's a good option for those with nut or soy allergies.
- Rice milk is naturally low in fat and calories, making it a good choice for those watching their calorie intake.
1 cup whole milk = 1 cup rice milk
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- 1 cup rice milk = 120 calories, 1 g protein, 2.5 g fat, 10 g sugar
13. Hemp Seed Milk
- Hemp seed milk is a creamy, nutty-flavored milk alternative made from hemp seeds. It's rich in omega-3 fatty acids and a good source of plant-based protein.
- Hemp seed milk is lower in calories compared to whole milk and provides essential omega-3 fatty acids and plant-based protein.
1 cup whole milk = 1 cup hemp seed milk
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- 1 cup hemp seed milk = 80 calories, 4 g protein, 7 g fat, 1 g sugar
14. Cashew Milk
- Cashew milk is a creamy, slightly sweet milk alternative made from cashews and water. It's a good source of healthy fats and has a rich, smooth texture.
- Cashew milk is lower in calories and sugar compared to whole milk, and it contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
1 cup whole milk = 1 cup cashew milk
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- 1 cup cashew milk = 60 calories, 1 g protein, 4 g fat, 1 g sugar
15. Oat Milk
- Oat milk is a creamy, mildly sweet milk alternative made from oats and water. It has a smooth texture and is naturally higher in carbohydrates compared to other plant-based milks.
- Oat milk is a good source of fiber and is often fortified with calcium and vitamin D. It's a good choice for those with nut or soy allergies.
1 cup whole milk = 1 cup oat milk
- 1 cup whole milk = 150 calories, 8 g protein, 8 g fat, 12 g sugar
- 1 cup oat milk = 130 calories, 4 g protein, 2.5 g fat, 19 g sugar
Substitutes in Kraft Mac and Cheese (Boxed Mac)
Milk Substitutes
- When making Kraft Mac and Cheese or other boxed mac and cheese, you can easily substitute the milk with various alternatives, such as almond milk, soy milk, or even water.
- These substitutes will still provide the necessary liquid for the cheese sauce, although the flavor and texture may differ slightly from the original.
- ¼ cup milk = ¼ cup milk alternative or water
Butter Substitutes
- The butter in boxed mac and cheese can be replaced with various alternatives, such as margarine, olive oil, or even Greek yogurt. These substitutes can add different flavors and nutritional profiles to your mac and cheese.
- ¼ cup butter = ¼ cup margarine, olive oil, or Greek yogurt
- If using Greek yogurt, you may need to add a little more liquid (milk or water) to achieve the desired consistency.
Cheese Packet Substitutes
- If you don't have the cheese packet that comes with the boxed mac and cheese, you can create your own cheese sauce using a combination of shredded cheese, milk, and butter.
- This allows you to customize the flavor and use your preferred type of cheese.
- 1 cheese packet = ⅓ cup shredded cheese + ¼ cup milk + 1 tablespoon butter
- Melt the butter in a saucepan, then add the milk and shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth before mixing it with the cooked macaroni.
Vegan Substitutes
- To make a vegan version of Kraft Mac and Cheese or boxed mac, you can substitute the milk, butter, and cheese packet with plant-based alternatives.
- Use almond milk or soy milk instead of dairy milk, vegan butter or olive oil instead of regular butter, and a combination of nutritional yeast, vegan shredded cheese, and spices for the cheese sauce.
- ¼ cup milk = ¼ cup almond milk or soy milk
- ¼ cup butter = ¼ cup vegan butter or olive oil
- 1 cheese packet = ¼ cup nutritional yeast + ¼ cup vegan shredded cheese + ½ teaspoon garlic powder + ½ teaspoon onion powder + ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Combine the vegan cheese sauce ingredients in a bowl and mix well before adding to the cooked macaroni.
Milk Substitutes in Pasta
Chicken or Vegetable Broth
- For a lighter option, chicken or vegetable broth can be used instead of milk in pasta dishes. This substitution works well for sauces that don't rely heavily on creaminess.
- 1 cup milk = 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- The flavor of the broth will impact the overall taste of the dish, so choose a broth that complements the other ingredients in your pasta recipe.
Heavy Cream
- Heavy cream can be used as a substitute for milk in pasta dishes, creating a richer and creamier sauce. It's perfect for alfredo or creamy pesto recipes.
- 1 cup milk = ½ cup heavy cream + ½ cup water
- Due to the higher fat content in heavy cream, you may need to adjust the amount of cheese or other dairy ingredients to balance the richness of the dish.
Evaporated Milk
- Evaporated milk is a concentrated form of milk that can add depth and creaminess to your pasta sauce. It's a good option if you don't have fresh milk on hand.
- 1 cup milk = ½ cup evaporated milk + ½ cup water
- Evaporated milk has a slightly caramelized flavor, which may alter the taste of your pasta sauce slightly.
Sour Cream
- Sour cream can be used as a tangy and creamy substitute for milk in pasta dishes. It works well in stroganoff or carbonara-style recipes.
- 1 cup milk = ½ cup sour cream + ½ cup water
- Sour cream can curdle if exposed to high heat, so it's best to add it at the end of the cooking process and heat gently.
Unsweetened Almond Milk
- Unsweetened almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that can be used in place of milk for pasta dishes. It has a neutral flavor and works well in creamy sauces.
- 1 cup milk = 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- Almond milk may create a slightly thinner sauce compared to cow's milk, so you may need to add a thickening agent like flour or cornstarch.
FAQ
There are several substitutes for milk in mac and cheese, including heavy cream, evaporated milk, sour cream, unsweetened almond milk, and chicken or vegetable broth. Each substitute will affect the flavor and texture of the dish differently, so choose one that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Yes, you can replace the milk with water in mac and cheese. However, using water will result in a less creamy and flavorful dish. If you don't have any milk substitutes available, water can be used as a last resort, but the mac and cheese may taste a bit bland.
Yes, it is possible to make mac and cheese without milk. You can use various milk substitutes, such as heavy cream, evaporated milk, sour cream, or unsweetened almond milk. Alternatively, you can create a sauce using chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Butter cannot be used as a direct substitute for milk in mac and cheese, as it does not provide the necessary liquid to create a sauce. However, you can use a combination of butter and water or chicken broth to replace the milk. Melt the butter in a saucepan, then add the water or broth and whisk until combined before adding the cheese.
If you don't have milk, you can use various substitutes such as heavy cream, evaporated milk, sour cream, unsweetened almond milk, or chicken/vegetable broth. Each substitute will provide a different flavor and texture to your mac and cheese, so choose one that aligns with your preferences and available ingredients.
Milk plays a crucial role in creating a creamy and smooth sauce for mac and cheese. It helps to emulsify the cheese and prevents it from becoming stringy or clumpy. However, if you don't have milk or can't consume it due to dietary restrictions, there are several substitutes available that can still produce a delicious and satisfying mac and cheese dish.
Choosing the Right Substitution
The key to unlocking your ideal mac and cheese lies in the milk substitute! Consider your dietary needs, taste preferences, and desired texture. Don't be afraid to experiment!
Whatever you decide, let us know how your swap turned out in the comments below!
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