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Looking for a great substitute for heavy cream in mac and cheese? How about 4 incredible heavy cream substitute options that can work for any mac and cheese recipe? Keep reading to find out how you can use items you likely have in your kitchen to replace heavy cream in this dish.
We’ve shared the best ways to substitute for heavy cream Alfredo sauce here. But, if you are whipping up that family favorite, mac and cheese, and realize that you don’t have heavy cream What do you do?
Or do you want the rich, creamy taste of mac and cheese without so many calories?
You don’t have to compromise on your comfort food, as there are several options you can use as a substitute for heavy cream in mac and cheese without substituting the quality of the recipe.
Below, you will find easy ways to substitute for heavy cream in mac and cheese which include, milk, crème fraiche, cream cheese and greek yogurt.
Best Substitute for Heavy Cream in Mac and Cheese
Milk
If you don’t have cream, you are sure to have milk in your fridge as the easiest substitute for heavy cream in mac and cheese. Whole milk is thicker, but for a calorie-friendly option you can replace it with low-fat milk.
Milk can be used in the same amount as heavy cream, at a conversion rate of 1:1.
Crème Fraiche
Crème fraiche is a lighter dairy product, but has a similar creamy taste and consistency to heavy cream. Though not as thick, and with a slight tang, it is a great replacement for creamy recipes and has less calories than heavy cream.
Crème fraiche can be used in the same amount as heavy cream, at a conversion rate of 1:1.
Cream Cheese
What could be better than a creamy, cheesy substitute? Although this is usually used as a spread it’s a great replacement for heavy cream in mac and cheese cheesy sauces. It has the same thickness as heavy cream and has the added bonus of the cheesy flavor.
Cream cheese can be used in the same amount as heavy cream, at a conversion rate of 1:1.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is another substitute for heavy cream in mac and cheese for more health conscious people.
It is thicker than heavy cream so add ½ Greek yogurt and ½ milk and this combination can be used as a 1:1 conversion for heavy cream.