13 Milk Substitutes for Hamburger Helper: Flavorful and Dairy-Free Options

When making Hamburger Helper and you don't have milk or prefer a milk substitute, there are several options you can use. Here are 13 substitutes for milk in Hamburger Helper, each offering a unique flavor and texture:

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is a great substitute for milk as it adds a creamy and tangy flavor to your dish. Flavored cream cheese can be used to enhance the taste, making your Hamburger Helper more flavorful. This option works well for those who enjoy a tangy, distinctly creamed taste in their meals.

Water

If you're looking for a simple substitute, water can be used in place of milk. While it won't provide the same creaminess, water works well with the recipe and can be a good choice if you're on a strict calorie count or prefer a less creamy dish.

Shredded Cheese

Adding shredded cheese to your Hamburger Helper can help thicken the sauce and add extra flavor. You can use your favorite type of cheese to tailor the flavor to your liking. Cheese adds a rich, savory element to the dish, making it more satisfying and flavorful.

Sour Cream

Sour cream adds thickness and tanginess to the sauce. It's best to add it towards the end of the cooking time to prevent splitting. Sour cream can give your dish a creamy, tart flavor that complements the spiciness and meatiness of Hamburger Helper.

Vegan Milk

If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use vegan milk such as oat milk or almond milk. Make sure to use the unsweetened and unflavored version to avoid altering the taste of the dish. Vegan milk works well for those who avoid animal products but still want a creamy dish.

Butter

Butter can be used as a substitute for milk to make the sauce rich and creamy. It adds a delicious flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste. Use it towards the end of the cooking process to achieve the desired consistency.

Powdered Milk

If you have powdered milk on hand, you can rehydrate it according to the package instructions and use it as a substitute for milk. This option allows you to add a creamy texture to your Hamburger Helper without the need for additional ingredients.

Cream

Using cream such as heavy cream or double cream can make the sauce silky and rich. You can also use a combination of cream and water for a lighter sauce. Cream gives your dish a luxurious texture and a rich flavor.

Evaporated Milk

Evaporated milk is a thicker milk substitute that can be used in place of regular milk. It adds creaminess to the dish without altering the flavor. This option is great for those who want a rich and creamy texture without the extra sweetness of regular milk.

Mayonnaise

Surprisingly, mayonnaise can be used as a substitute for milk. It adds tanginess and blends well with the other flavors in the dish. This option is great for those who enjoy a bit of a tangy taste in their meal.

Stock or Broth

If you can't consume dairy, using stock or broth can add flavor to your Hamburger Helper. Beef or vegetable stock works well and can enhance the overall taste of the dish, making it more savory and rich.

Coconut Milk

Both canned and refrigerated unsweetened coconut milk can be used as a substitute for milk. It adds creaminess and a slight coconut flavor to the dish. This option offers a unique twist to the traditional flavor of Hamburger Helper.

Half and Half

Half and half can be used as a substitute for milk to create a rich and creamy sauce. You can also use a combination of half and half and water for a lighter sauce. This option provides a rich flavor with a touch of creaminess while being slightly lighter than whole milk.

Remember to adjust the quantities of these substitutes according to the recipe instructions. Whether you are looking for a creamy, tangy, or rich texture, these milk substitutes will help you enjoy your Hamburger Helper in a variety of ways.

Learn more about What can substitute milk when making Hamburger Helper, Hamburger Helper Without Milk 13 Substitutes - Insanely Good, and Substitute For Milk In Hamburger Helper - I Try 13 Options [Pics] - Pantry Larder.