Are you looking for a way to make your favorite Kraft Mac N Cheese recipe a little healthier? Or maybe you’re lactose intolerant and looking for a dairy-free alternative?
Whatever your reason, you may be wondering if almond milk is a suitable substitute for regular milk in this classic dish. The answer is yes, you can use almond milk in Kraft Mac N Cheese!
But before you start experimenting, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of using almond milk and how it might affect the taste and texture of your mac and cheese.
Can You Use Almond Milk In Kraft Mac N Cheese?
Yes, you can definitely use almond milk in Kraft Mac N Cheese. Almond milk is a popular non-dairy milk alternative that can be used in a variety of recipes, including mac and cheese. It is available in sweetened and unsweetened varieties, and even comes with vanilla flavoring.
However, when it comes to using almond milk in mac and cheese, it’s important to choose the right type. Plain unsweetened almond milk is the best option for Kraft Mac N Cheese. This is because flavored almond milk may have a mild nutty taste that could alter the flavor of your macaroni.
If you’re worried about the sweetness of almond milk affecting the taste of your mac and cheese, you can use a combination of almond milk and plain yogurt. This will help balance out the flavors and produce a creamier cheese base.
The Benefits Of Using Almond Milk In Kraft Mac N Cheese
There are several benefits to using almond milk in Kraft Mac N Cheese. Firstly, almond milk is a great dairy-free alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy. It has a much lower fat content than cow’s milk, which can be beneficial for those who are watching their calorie intake.
Secondly, almond milk is packed with nutrients, including vitamin E, calcium, and potassium. These nutrients can help support healthy bones and muscles, as well as improve overall health.
Thirdly, almond milk is a good source of protein. In fact, it contains more protein than whole or skimmed cow’s milk. This can be especially beneficial for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Lastly, using almond milk in mac and cheese can help create a creamier texture without the added fat and calories of regular dairy milk. By adding thickeners such as cornstarch, arrowroot or tapioca starch, you can achieve a similar consistency to that of traditional mac and cheese.
How Almond Milk Affects The Taste And Texture Of Mac And Cheese
Using almond milk in mac and cheese can slightly alter the taste and texture of the dish. Almond milk has a recognizable nutty taste that may be noticeable in the final product. However, if you use unsweetened and unflavored almond milk, the difference in taste will not be significant.
It’s important to note that almond milk is thinner and less creamy than dairy milk. This means that if you prefer a creamier mac and cheese, you may need to add some thickeners like flour or additional butter or cheese. Additionally, almond milk is sweeter than regular milk, so it may make your mac and cheese recipe slightly sweeter.
Despite these differences, almond milk is a great substitute for cow’s milk in mac and cheese. It contains less fat, cholesterol, calories, and sugar than regular dairy milk. It also has more protein than whole or skimmed cow’s milk. Furthermore, using almond milk allows those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy to enjoy this classic comfort food.
Tips For Using Almond Milk In Kraft Mac N Cheese
Here are some tips to keep in mind when using almond milk in Kraft Mac N Cheese:
1. Use plain unsweetened almond milk: As mentioned earlier, flavored almond milk may alter the taste of your mac and cheese. So, it’s best to stick with plain unsweetened almond milk.
2. Use a 1:2 ratio of almond milk to regular milk: If you’re not used to the taste of almond milk, start by using a 1:2 ratio of almond milk to regular milk. This will help you get used to the taste without it being too overpowering.
3. Add plain yogurt for a creamier base: To balance out the sweetness of almond milk, you can add plain yogurt to your mac and cheese recipe. This will help produce a creamier cheese base and balance out the flavors.
4. Don’t overcook the macaroni: Overcooked macaroni can become sticky and tasteless. So, be sure to monitor your pasta while it’s cooking and remove it from the stove when it’s al dente.
5. Experiment with other short pasta varieties: While elbow macaroni is the most classic choice for mac and cheese, you can experiment with other short pasta varieties like farfalle, fusilli, penne, or cavatelli.
6. Use caramelized onions for extra flavor: Adding caramelized onions to your mac and cheese recipe can provide a sweet, rich, and complex flavor.
7. Soak cashews before using them: If you’re using cashews as a base for your cheese sauce, be sure to soak them beforehand. This is an important step in creating a silky smooth sauce.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can successfully use almond milk in Kraft Mac N Cheese and create a delicious and flavorful dish that everyone will love.
Other Dairy-Free Alternatives To Milk In Mac And Cheese Recipes
Aside from almond milk, there are other dairy-free alternatives that you can use in mac and cheese recipes. These alternatives are perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. Here are some of the best options:
1. Coconut Milk – Coconut milk is a great substitute for milk in mac and cheese recipes. It has a creamy texture and a sweet taste that can help balance out the sharpness of the cheese. You can use canned coconut milk or coconut cream for a richer flavor.
2. Soy Milk – Soy milk is another popular dairy-free alternative that can be used in mac and cheese recipes. It has a thick consistency that can make your sauce creamier. Be sure to choose a flavored soy milk to add more flavor to your dish.
3. Cashew Milk – Cashew milk is a great option for those who want a creamier texture in their mac and cheese. It has a rich and nutty flavor that can complement the cheese well.
4. Oat Milk – Oat milk is a creamy and neutral-tasting alternative that can be used in mac and cheese recipes. It’s also a great option for those who are allergic to nuts.
5. Rice Milk – Rice milk is another neutral-tasting alternative that can be used in mac and cheese recipes. It has a thin consistency, so you may need to add more flour or cornstarch to thicken your sauce.
When using these dairy-free alternatives, it’s important to keep in mind that they may alter the taste and texture of your mac and cheese slightly. To get the best results, use a 1:1 ratio when substituting any of these non-dairy milk products for regular milk. You can also experiment with different combinations of these alternatives to find the perfect flavor and texture for your mac and cheese recipe.
