Creamy Evaporated Milk Mac n’ Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This creamy evaporated milk mac n’ cheese is a quick and comforting twist on a classic favorite. Using evaporated milk creates a rich, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to tender elbow macaroni. It’s an easy recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 12 oz. elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)
- ⅛ tsp. salt
- 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
- 3 cups (12 oz.) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp. cold butter, cut into pieces (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Measure the macaroni and salt into a 12 to 14-inch skillet or medium saucepan. Add just enough water to barely cover the pasta. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring often.
- Step 2: Reduce heat to low and simmer until most of the water is gone and the macaroni is al dente—just a little firmer than you want for the finished dish—about 7 to 9 minutes. Do not drain the water.
- Step 3: Add the evaporated milk directly to the pan with the remaining water and pasta. Increase heat to medium-high and stir continuously until it reaches a simmer. Immediately reduce heat to low.
- Step 4: Stir in the shredded cheese and cold butter, if using. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Step 5: Taste and season with additional salt and/or pepper as desired. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra creaminess, try adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese with the evaporated milk.
- Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.
- Adding cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables can turn this into a hearty one-pan meal.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the evaporated milk slightly or cook the sauce a little longer to evaporate excess liquid.
Storage
Store leftover mac n’ cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce as needed. Microwaving works too, but stir often to heat evenly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?
You can substitute regular milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy since evaporated milk is thicker and has a slightly caramelized flavor that enhances the dish.
Should I rinse the pasta after cooking?
No, do not rinse the pasta. The remaining water helps create the sauce when combined with the evaporated milk, ensuring it clings well to the noodles.
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Creamy Evaporated Milk Mac n’ Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Evaporated Milk Mac n’ Cheese recipe offers a rich and velvety twist on the classic mac and cheese by using evaporated milk and sharp Cheddar cheese to create a luscious, cheesy sauce. Made entirely on the stovetop with minimal ingredients, it’s a quick and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Macaroni
- 12 oz. elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)
- ⅛ tsp. salt
Cheese Sauce
- 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
- 3 cups (12 oz.) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp. cold butter, cut into pieces (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Measure the macaroni and salt into a 12 to 14-inch skillet or medium saucepan. Add just enough water to barely cover the pasta. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.
- Simmer until al dente: Reduce the heat to low and simmer until much of the water has evaporated and the macaroni is al dente, about 7-9 minutes. The pasta should be slightly firmer than desired as it will continue cooking in the next steps. Do not drain the water.
- Add evaporated milk and heat: Pour the evaporated milk directly into the pan with the partially cooked pasta and remaining water. Increase heat to medium-high and stir continuously until the mixture reaches a simmer.
- Incorporate cheese and butter: Immediately reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese and cold butter, if using. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
- Season and serve: Taste the mac and cheese and add salt and/or pepper to your preference. Serve warm and enjoy a creamy, cheesy comfort meal.
Notes
- Using cold butter helps to create a smoother, creamier sauce, but it’s optional.
- Do not drain the pasta water; it helps to develop the creamy cheese sauce.
- Sharp Cheddar provides the best flavor, but feel free to mix in other cheeses for variety.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste, as evaporated milk can be slightly sweet.
- For a thicker sauce, use less water when cooking the pasta.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese, evaporated milk mac and cheese, sharp Cheddar mac and cheese, comfort food recipe
