Randy Chandler
Macaroni and cheese is a popular dish, but what type of milk should you use to make it? While you can make it with any milk or even without milk, if you want to make a classic mac and cheese that tastes how it should, you should use whole milk. This is because the cheese sauce in mac and cheese is based on béchamel sauce, one of the five mother sauces of French cuisine, which is made with fat, flour, and milk. Using low-fat or non-fat milk will result in a sauce that is less stable and may have a greasy look and texture. Evaporated milk is also a popular choice for mac and cheese, especially in baked recipes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Milk type | Whole milk, evaporated milk, half-and-half, cream, 2% milk, almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, lactose-free milk, UHT milk, powdered milk, etc. |
| Milk quantity | 2.5 cups, 2 cups, 1.5 cups, etc. |
| Milk alternatives | Pasta water, mayonnaise, sour cream, Greek yogurt, heavy cream, whipping cream, etc. |
What You'll Learn
Whole milk is best for mac and cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. While you can make it with any type of milk, using whole milk will give you the creamiest, richest, and most stable sauce.
The cheese sauce in mac and cheese is essentially a béchamel sauce, one of the five "mother sauces" of French cuisine. It is made with fat, flour, and milk. Using whole milk, which has a higher fat content, will make your sauce thicker and more stable. It will also give your mac and cheese a richer flavor and texture.
If you're making a stovetop mac and cheese, start by creating a roux, which is a thickening agent made of one part fat and one part flour. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add flour, salt, and pepper, stirring until smooth. Slowly pour in the whole milk, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and bubbling. Be careful not to let the milk burn.
Finally, add your cheese! Slowly stir in shredded Cheddar cheese until it's smooth and melted. Grate your own cheese for the best results, as pre-shredded cheese doesn't incorporate into the mixture as well.
If you're making a baked mac and cheese, the process is slightly different. You'll start by boiling your macaroni, draining it, and transferring it to a prepared baking dish. Then, you'll make the cheese sauce by creating a roux and adding milk and cheese, just like with the stovetop method. Pour the sauce over the noodles and stir to combine.
For the topping, melt butter in a skillet and add bread crumbs, stirring until they are well coated and browned. Spread the bread crumbs over the macaroni and cheese, then sprinkle with paprika.
Bake your mac and cheese until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Enjoy!
Cheese for Gyros: The Ultimate Guide to Toppings
You may want to see also
Evaporated milk is a good alternative
Evaporated milk is a great option for boiling the pasta as it does not curdle as much as other types of milk. It is also a good option for creating a clean pan with no burnt bits on the bottom. It is a staple in many households and has a long shelf life, so it is always good to have on hand.
Evaporated milk is also a good option for those who live in hot climates, as it is canned and shelf-stable for up to six months. It is also a good alternative for those who are lactose intolerant, as the lactose has already been broken down into simpler sugars.
When making mac and cheese, it is important to note that the type of milk used can affect the taste and texture of the dish. Evaporated milk can make the dish creamier and smoother, and it is a good option for those who want to avoid the processed ingredients in boxed mac and cheese.
Cheese and Salad: Perfect Pairing for a Delicious Dish
You may want to see also
Lactose-free milk can be used
When making mac and cheese, it is essential to create a creamy and smooth sauce. Lactose-free milk can be used to make the béchamel sauce, which is a combination of fat, flour, and milk. By using lactose-free milk with a higher fat content, you can ensure that your sauce has a rich and creamy consistency. This type of milk will also help prevent the sauce from becoming greasy, which can happen when using low-fat or non-fat milk alternatives.
Additionally, lactose-free milk can be used in combination with other ingredients to enhance the creaminess of your mac and cheese. For instance, you can add sour cream, heavy cream, or Greek yogurt to your sauce for an even richer flavor and texture. These additions can further elevate your dish and make it indulgent and satisfying.
When using lactose-free milk, it is important to consider the other ingredients in your mac and cheese. Freshly grated cheese is always recommended, as pre-shredded cheese can be coated with cellulose, which dries out the cheese and affects its melting capability. Additionally, using a combination of cheeses can create a more complex and flavorful dish. Sharp cheddar, mild cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack are all excellent choices for a creamy and tasty mac and cheese.
In conclusion, lactose-free milk can absolutely be used in macaroni and cheese. By opting for lactose-free milk with a higher fat content and combining it with complementary ingredients, you can create a delicious and creamy mac and cheese that suits your dietary needs. With the right combination of ingredients, you can enjoy a classic comfort food that tastes just as good as the traditional version.
Cheese and Roast Beef: The Perfect Pairing
You may want to see also
Powdered milk can be used
However, if you want to use powdered milk, it is best to use low heat-treated whole milk powder. This type of milk powder is not commonly available in supermarkets, but it can be found with some searching. When using milk powder, it is imperative that the milk is dissolved in warm water and is free from any clumps before carrying on with the recipe.
Some people who cook mac and cheese regularly recommend buying a container of powdered milk. It is shelf-stable, and you can rehydrate enough to make your mac and cheese as you need it.
If you are looking for a more classic, traditional mac and cheese, whole milk is the best option. This is because the basis for the cheese part of mac and cheese is béchamel sauce, which consists of fat, flour, and milk. If you attempt to make béchamel from low-fat milk or a milk substitute, it won't be as stable and may have a greasy look and texture.
Cheese and Fig Jam: Perfect Pairing Recommendations
You may want to see also
You can use plant-based milk
If you're looking for an alternative to dairy milk for your mac and cheese, plant-based milk is a great option. Not only do these "milks" tend to have a longer shelf life, but they can also add a creamy texture to your dish.
When making mac and cheese, the basis for the cheese sauce is béchamel sauce, which consists of fat, flour, and milk. While whole milk is typically used to achieve a stable sauce, you can still make a delicious mac and cheese with plant-based milk.
- Soy milk: Soy milk has a neutral flavor and is a good source of protein. However, some people may find that it affects the taste of the final dish.
- Almond milk: Almond milk also has a long shelf life and can be a good alternative to dairy milk in mac and cheese.
- Oat milk: Oat milk is known for its creaminess and can add a smooth texture to your mac and cheese.
- Rice milk: Rice milk has a mild flavor and is less likely to affect the taste of your mac and cheese. However, it may be watery for some people's tastes.
When using plant-based milk, keep in mind that the sauce may not be as stable as it would be with dairy milk, and you may need to make adjustments to the recipe. You can try mixing plant-based milk with a higher-fat option, such as coconut milk or cream, to boost the fat content and create a richer sauce.
Additionally, consider using other ingredients to enhance the creaminess of your mac and cheese, such as mascarpone, sour cream, or Greek yogurt. These ingredients can help create a creamy texture and complement the flavors of the cheese.
Remember to season your dish well and adjust the recipe to your taste preferences. With the right combination of ingredients and seasonings, you can create a delicious and creamy mac and cheese using plant-based milk.
The Best Cheeses to Pair with French Fries
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
For a classic mac and cheese, whole milk is best. This is because the cheese sauce is based on béchamel sauce, which requires a milk with a higher fat content.
Yes, you can use half-and-half, cream, or evaporated milk. If you want to use low-fat milk, you can try mixing it with whipping cream.
It is not recommended, as plant-based milk has a different consistency and may not produce the same results. However, some people have reported success using almond milk, extra-creamy oat milk, and sour cream or Greek yoghurt.
