Kraft mac and cheese is a kitchen staple for many Americans. Although the recipe is simple, you may find that you want to make this classic dinner favorite without using dairy. Luckily, it is possible and there are ways on how to make Kraft mac and cheese without milk or butter.
Follow the Directions
Here’s how to make kraft mac and cheese without milk or butter. Begin by following the instructions on the box to cook the macaroni. After the macaroni is done, drain the pasta and add any substitutions you want to use to replace the milk and butter.
If you don’t want to use substitutions, reserve about a half-cup of the cooking liquid. You can use this liquid to make the macaroni and cheese using just water.
Make Kraft Mac and Cheese Without Milk or Butter By Using Substitutions
Substitutions for milk and butter are an option that gives your mac and cheese a richer flavor. Some non-dairy milk options include oat, cashew, almond and soy milk. These options don’t have the same taste as dairy milk, but do add a rich, milky flavor that works well with cheese.
To choose a tasty milk substitute, opt for a milk alternative that is low in sugar to preserve the savory flavor of your Kraft. Margarine and coconut oil are commonly used substitutes for butter.
Cold-pressed coconut but oil has a classic coconut flavor. Choose a processed coconut oil if you want to skip the tropical flavor. Use butter-flavored flakes if you want the flavor of butter without the added fat and calories.
A Homemade Touch
If you have shredded cheese and cream cheese in your kitchen, you can make a quick stovetop version of traditional macaroni and cheese. To make this recipe, boil the noodles as directed on the box.
Drain the noodles, and stir in about two ounces of cream cheese and a half-cup of your favorite shredded cheese. Adjust the cream and shredded cheeses to suit your personal preferences.
You don’t need the powdered cheese packet for this recipe. You can save the packet to add to another dish if you love the flavor of Kraft macaroni and cheese.
Water-Only Mac and Cheese
Learning how to make Kraft mac and cheese without milk or butter can be as simple as using plain water. The cheese packet adds a lot of savory flavor to the plain macaroni, and you can add salt, pepper and herbs to give the dish a more complex profile.
Just follow the instructions on the box to cook the macaroni, and allow a half-cup of the cooking liquid to remain in the pan after draining. The reserved hot water helps dissolve and evenly distribute the cheese powder. Add salt, pepper and herbs to taste before serving the macaroni and cheese.
Flavor Additions When Making Kraft Mac and Cheese Without Milk or Butter
Condiments like hot sauce and ketchup may be added if you want to give your water-only macaroni and cheese a more robust flavor. Serve condiments on the side to experiment with a range of flavors.