7 Best Substitutes for Butter in Mac and Cheese

Nothing quite parallels the frustration of being disappointed by your most trusted partner—both literally and figuratively. A few weeks ago, as I’d returned from a vacation. I had a sudden desire for some mac and cheese. Luckily I knew I had some leftover butter in the fridge. So, smiling, I went over to it. But I was horrified to see that it had gone moldy. Disgusted, I threw it in the trash and asked myself how could I possibly make mac and cheese without butter?

Perhaps the best thing about this fatty treat is how easy it is to replace. I might seem spiteful, but believe me, I do not lie here. Butter is a part of our daily lives. We put it on bread for breakfast, use it for frying, making sauces, grilling, making desserts, and so much more. So if you’ve met a calamity similar to mine, read on as I have just the solution for you.

Butter, its Composition and Creation

Butter is a by-product of cow milk. It is made by separating milk fat or the cream from other milk elements (buttermilk). Then it is churned until it is ready to be packaged. You can also make butter at home.

Butter has a rich flavor. However, it contains notable amounts of calories and fats. Almost 80% of butter is fat. Therefore people with gallbladder stones should cut it from their diet. Moreover, it has zero carbs.

7 Best Substitutes for Butter in Macaroni and Cheese

Now let’s come back to our initial concern. What can I use as a butter replacement for mac and cheese? Adding no butter to mac and cheese will not ruin its flavor. So let’s discuss all the options available.

1. Plain Yogurt

We all have yogurt in our fridge. You can buy it from any store or make it at home. Since it has a slightly sour taste, Greek yogurt is an even better option. As a result, your mac and cheese will have a slight zestiness.

Plain, unflavored yogurt is an excellent substitute. Moreover, it is fat-free and very healthy. Greek yogurt thickens up very nicely. So your dish will have the desired texture too.

2. Margarine

Although, it might not be an everyday product in most homes. Migraine makes an excellent butter substitute in mac and cheese. Moreover, it is plant-based. And has low saturated fat content and cholesterol. Therefore, it is even healthier. Most stores also stock low-sodium content and fat-free margarine. You may use any based on your preference.

3. Sour Cream

Are you looking for a substitute for butter in boxed mac and cheese? Sour cream is the best option. Since it is thick, creamy, and has a divine taste. You can substitute it for either milk or butter. However, always add a little less than what the original recipe called for when using it as a replacement. Since sour cream is way tangier than butter. So you wouldn’t want it to overpower the taste of your dish.

4. Mayonnaise

Another thing you can do is to substitute mayo for butter in mac and cheese. It might seem like a strange option. But mayonnaise is an all-rounder. It is great for hair masks, household tricks, sauces, and even cooking. Mayo also substitutes butter for grilling sandwiches. Hence, it shouldn’t surprise you that it is also a butter substitute for mac and cheese. Since the point of butter is to give a thick viscosity, you’ll find mayo works about as well. However, use it in a slightly less amount as it has a sharp taste.

5. Olive Oil

Do you know you can also substitute olive oil for butter in mac and cheese? Olive oil might not be known for its savory qualities. But, if you have nothing else at hand, go for olive oil! It is a healthy choice. And almost one tablespoon or less works great as a substitute. Besides, you may also use extra virgin olive oil for dairy-free mac and cheese. However, do not add too much oil.

6. Cream Cheese

Are you out of milk? Or do you want a mac and cheese without milk? Whatever it is, you cannot only use cream cheese as a butter substitute but also as a replacement for milk in mac and cheese. It is gooey, cheesy, and delicious. And you can’t have enough of it. However, it is also full of saturated fats. Therefore, you should avoid over-adding it. 

7. Heavy Cream

If you wish to enjoy no butter in mac and cheese, heavy cream is your friend. It is very high in fat content. As a result, it does not curdle when exposed to the heat of the stove. Making mac and cheese with heavy cream will give you a never-felt joy.

Frequently Asked Questions