Creamy Evaporated Milk Mac n’ Cheese Recipe
This Creamy Evaporated Milk Mac n’ Cheese recipe offers a velvety, rich take on a classic comfort food using evaporated milk for a smooth sauce. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop, combining elbow macaroni with sharp Cheddar cheese and butter, delivering a luscious cheesy pasta that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or satisfying family meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz. elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)
- ⅛ tsp. salt
- Enough water to just barely cover the pasta
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 macaroni: Measure the macaroni and salt into a 12 to 14 inch skillet or medium saucepan. Add enough water to just barely cover the pasta. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.
- Simmer pasta: Reduce 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 a tiny bit firmer than you want for the final dish. Do not drain the water.
- Add evaporated milk: Add the evaporated milk directly to the pan with the remaining water and nearly cooked pasta. Increase heat to medium-high, stirring continuously to bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Incorporate cheese and butter: Once simmering, immediately lower heat to low and stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese and cold butter if using. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
- Season to taste: Taste the dish and add additional salt and/or freshly ground black pepper to your preference before serving.
Notes
- Using evaporated milk creates a creamy texture without needing heavy cream.
- Make sure not to drain the pasta to save the starchy water which helps thicken the sauce.
- Cold butter added at the end enhances richness and smoothness in the sauce.
- For a sharper flavor, you can use extra sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Feel free to add black pepper or a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, evaporated milk mac and cheese, comfort food, easy dinner
