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

Scale

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