why make this recipe
Evaporated Milk Mac & Cheese is a simple and creamy dish. It is comforting and perfect for anyone who loves cheese. Using evaporated milk gives the mac and cheese a rich and smooth texture without being overly heavy. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a delicious meal in a hurry.
how to make Evaporated Milk Mac & Cheese
Ingredients :
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta (cooked to package instructions)
- 12 oz. evaporated milk (not sweetened condensed milk)
- 12 oz grated cheddar cheese (about 3 cups, grated from block, not pre-shredded)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional but it tastes better with garlic powder)
- 4 Tablespoons butter (optional)
Directions :
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a pan, bring the 12 ounces of evaporated milk to a simmer.
- Stir in the 12 oz. of grated cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste), and the optional 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Gently stir to melt all the cheese.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the pot of cheese.
- Continue stirring until the macaroni is heated through.
- Taste a little bit and if needed, add more salt. If you’d like, add some butter and let it melt in the cheese sauce.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
how to serve Evaporated Milk Mac & Cheese
You can serve Evaporated Milk Mac & Cheese as a main dish or a side dish. It goes well with cooked vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, you can top it with some breadcrumbs or extra cheese before baking it in the oven for a crispy finish.
how to store Evaporated Milk Mac & Cheese
To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool down to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-5 days. If you want to reheat it, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
tips to make Evaporated Milk Mac & Cheese
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor; pre-shredded cheese might not melt as well.
- Adjust the salt and garlic powder to your taste.
- For a cheesier flavor, you can mix in other types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda.
- If you want to make it a bit richer, add a touch of cream cheese or sour cream.
variation
You can add cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables like broccoli or spinach to make it more filling and nutritious. Spice lovers can incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for some heat.
FAQs
1. Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?
No, sweetened condensed milk has added sugar and is too sweet for this recipe. Stick with evaporated milk for the best flavor.
2. Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat before serving. Just be sure to add a little milk when reheating to keep it creamy.
3. Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?
Yes! You can use gluten-free elbow pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Evaporated Milk Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a pan, bring the evaporated milk to a simmer.
- Stir in the grated cheese, salt, and optional garlic powder.
- Gently stir until all the cheese is melted.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the pot of cheese and continue stirring until heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding butter if desired.
- Serve warm as a main dish or side dish.
