Creamy Evaporated Milk Mac n’ Cheese Recipe
This Creamy Evaporated Milk Mac n’ Cheese is a quick and comforting twist on the classic dish, using evaporated milk to create a rich and velvety cheese sauce. The recipe cooks the macaroni directly in water with salt, then incorporates evaporated milk and sharp Cheddar cheese to build a smooth, luscious sauce without needing to drain the pasta. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe balances ease and indulgence with minimal ingredients and steps.
- 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 and Seasoning
- 12 oz. elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)
- ⅛ tsp. salt
Dairy and Cheese
- 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 large 12 to 14 inch skillet or medium saucepan. Add just enough water to barely cover the pasta. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.
- Simmer pasta until nearly cooked: Lower the heat to low and let the macaroni simmer until most of the water evaporates and the pasta is al dente—still a little firmer than desired for the final dish—about 7-9 minutes. Do not drain the remaining water.
- Add evaporated milk and heat: Pour the evaporated milk directly into the pan with the remaining water and pasta. Increase heat to medium-high and, stirring constantly, bring the mixture to 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 fully and the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, enjoying a creamy, cheesy mac n’ cheese without drainage or heavy cream.
Notes
- Using evaporated milk instead of regular milk or cream helps create a thicker, creamier sauce due to its concentrated milk solids.
- Do not drain the pasta water before adding evaporated milk; the leftover water helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
- Cold butter is optional but helps create a silkier sauce when stirred in at the end.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
- Sharp Cheddar cheese is recommended for a stronger, tangier flavor, but you can substitute with your favorite cheese varieties.
Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, evaporated milk recipe, stovetop mac and cheese, easy comfort food
