Are you craving that comforting, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese but need to avoid dairy? Don't despair! This lactose-free mac and cheese recipe delivers all the creamy, dreamy deliciousness without any lactose, making it a perfect healthy meal for those with dairy sensitivities or anyone looking for a delicious, easy recipe. This quick dinner idea is surprisingly simple to make, using readily available ingredients, making it perfect for homemade cooking. Let’s dive in and create a truly satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup lactose-free butter
- 1/2 cup lactose-free milk (unsweetened almond milk works well)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 cups lactose-free cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the lactose-free butter over medium heat. Whisk in the lactose-free milk and bring to a simmer.
- Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and a little bit of the simmering milk to form a smooth slurry. Gradually whisk the slurry into the saucepan, cooking until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. This will create a beautifully smooth and creamy texture.
- Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the nutritional yeast, shredded lactose-free cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine and serve: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious lactose-free mac and cheese!
Tips for the Best Lactose-Free Mac and Cheese:
- Use high-quality cheese: The quality of your lactose-free cheese significantly impacts the flavor of your dish. Opt for a good quality, sharp cheddar for the best taste.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the cheese sauce. Cook it al dente (slightly firm to the bite) for the best texture.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your liking. A dash of cayenne pepper could add a nice kick.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Stir in cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas, or add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor and protein.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Gourmet Mac and Cheese: Use a blend of different lactose-free cheeses, such as Gruyere, Fontina, or Gouda, for a richer, more complex flavor.
- Vegetarian Mac and Cheese: Add roasted vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a heartier, more nutritious meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This lactose-free mac and cheese recipe is a fantastic example of how delicious and satisfying healthy meals can be. It’s a simple dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Enjoy!