How to Make Pasta Roni without Milk? [Recipe Included]
If you’re like me and constantly seek quick, easy, and creamy comfort food, Pasta Roni hits the spot. But what’s a person to do when the milk has run out, or you’re avoiding dairy? No worries, I’ve got you covered. As a longtime lover of cheesy pasta goodness, I’ve perfected a recipe for the creamiest ready-made dish without a drop of milk.
In just 15 minutes, you’ll be diving into a bowl of creamy, cheesy bliss. Keep reading for my simple step-by-step recipe and ideas for jazzing up your Pasta Roni. I will show you that you can definitely make Pasta Roni without milk!
What Can You Use Instead of Milk for Pasta Roni?
The key is finding a milk substitute with a creamy texture. My go-to is coconut milk. Full-fat coconut milk is naturally creamy and adds a subtle tropical flair. Use an equal amount of full-fat coconut milk for each cup of milk the instructions call for. Coconut milk provides a rich creaminess without the lactose. Other options include almond milk, cashew milk, or a dairy-free milk alternative of your choice.
Another secret is using a combo of chicken broth, cream cheese, and a splash of half and half. The result is a rich, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta and satisfies like the real deal.
You can also cook and puree root vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, or carrots. Use an immersion blender or food processor to puree until smooth and creamy. Add the puree to the Pasta Roni along with the butter and seasoning packet. For extra decadence, puree with broth or olive oil. The starchy, creamy vegetables act as a perfect non-dairy thickener.
To make this dish creamy without milk, simply follow the instructions on the box, replacing the amount of dairy milk listed with the same amount of your chosen ingredient.
As this may not be as easy as it seems, I have prepared some instructions below. Here’s my foolproof method for making this creamy and savory pasta dish!
Recipe for Pasta Roni without Milk
As much as I love creamy pasta, sometimes I just don’t have milk or half and half on hand to make my usual Pasta Roni. Rather than running to the store, I’ve come up with a simple solution to make my ready-made meal creamy and delicious without a drop of dairy.
Your dairy-free meal will taste just as cheesy and delicious as the original. Enjoy!
Step 1: Cooking the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to the directions on the box. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water, and return it to the pot over low heat.
Step 2: Preparing the Sauce
Stir in the olive oil, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and then mix everything well to combine.
Slowly whisk in the broth 1/2 cup at a time until the pasta reaches your desired creaminess. Add a splash of the reserved cooking water as needed to thin out the sauce.
Step 3: Finishing Up
Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until heated through. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Stir again and enjoy your creamy Pasta Roni!
No milk or dairy is needed for this creamy and comforting pasta dish. Nutritional yeast provides a savory, cheesy flavor without the cheese, and the broth helps create a creamy sauce.
I also like to add some chicken and veggies I have around, but you can serve your creamy heaven whichever way you like!
What to Do with Leftover Pasta Roni?
For leftover Pasta Roni without milk, add a splash of broth or stock and reheat, stirring frequently. You can also add extra butter, cheese, cream cheese, or sour cream when reheating to restore creaminess.
Being the leftover queen that I am, I hate wasting food. So when I make this one, I always make extra to repurpose it into something else. Here are a few of my favorite ways to use leftover Pasta Roni without wasting it.
These leftovers make an excellent base for mix-ins. I like to add things like:
- Chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, spinach and tomatoes
- Shredded or cubed cheese like cheddar, mozzarella or feta
- Diced ham, bacon, or cooked ground beef or turkey
- Black or green olives
- Fresh or sun-dried herbs such as basil, oregano, rosemary or parsley
Just mix in your add-ins, season with salt and pepper, and enjoy your customized dish!
You can also use leftover Pasta Roni as a starter for soup or chili. Simply add broth, water, or tomato juice and your favorite veggies, beans, and spices. Simmer until everything is heated through and the flavors have blended. The starchy pasta will help thicken the soup, giving it a hearty, satisfying texture.
Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat for a quick stir fry. Add sliced bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage, and carrots and stir fry until crisp-tender. Add the Pasta Roni, soy sauce, garlic, and grated fresh ginger. Stir fry for 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through. Serve topped with sesame seeds, sliced scallions, and your favorite protein, like tofu, shrimp, or chicken.
Lastly, your leftovers will also work excellently as a base for cheesy casseroles. Mix the pasta with eggs, cheese, cream, or milk and your favorite mix-ins. Pour into a greased baking dish and top with bread crumbs or crushed crackers and more cheese. Bake at 350 °F (180 °C) until bubbly, about 30 minutes. Comfort food at its best!
I can’t wait to hear what you think about this recipe! So, make sure you write down your opinion in the comments below.
Pasta Roni without Milk
Ingredients
- 1 box Butter & Garlic Pasta Roni (you can use any type)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the pasta Roni according to the package directions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water, and return the pasta to the pot over low heat.
Preparing the Sauce
- Stir in the olive oil, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and then mix everything well to combine.
- Slowly whisk in the broth 1/2 cup at a time until the pasta reaches your desired creaminess. Add a splash of the reserved cooking water as needed to thin out the sauce.
Finishing Up
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until heated through. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Stir again and enjoy your creamy pasta Roni!
- No milk or dairy is needed for this creamy and comforting pasta dish. Nutritional yeast provides a savory, cheesy flavor without the cheese, and the broth helps create a creamy sauce.
- Serve your creamy pasta dish with anything you like, and enjoy the creaminess without a drop of milk!
Nutrition
Before diving into the nutritional details, please review our Nutritional Disclaimer page for important context and clarifications.
