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Creamy Mac and Cheese Made with Evaporated Milk

creamy mac and cheese made with evaporated milk - featured image
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A quick and easy homemade mac and cheese recipe using evaporated milk for a creamy, silky texture without the heaviness of traditional dairy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 225 grams)
  • 1 can evaporated milk (12 ounces / 354 ml)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 8 ounces / 225 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (16 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (use about 1 tablespoon salt per 4 quarts / 4 liters). Add 8 ounces (225 grams) elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, usually 7–8 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup (120 ml) pasta water.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, whisk in 2 tablespoons (16 grams) all-purpose flour. Cook, whisking constantly, for about 1–2 minutes until the mixture turns a pale golden color and smells nutty—it should be smooth and free of lumps.
  3. Slowly whisk in 1 can (12 ounces / 354 ml) evaporated milk, pouring in a steady stream to avoid lumps. Increase heat slightly and continue whisking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 4–5 minutes.
  4. Stir in 1 teaspoon yellow mustard powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and black pepper to taste. Lower heat to medium-low. Gradually add 2 cups (about 8 ounces / 225 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce, folding gently to coat evenly. Warm through for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Spoon creamy mac and cheese into bowls and enjoy while warm. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh herbs like parsley for color.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting. Add cheese gradually over medium-low heat to avoid graininess. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Avoid high heat to prevent sauce separation. For gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free baking blend. For dairy-free, use plant-based cheese and canned coconut milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, evaporated milk, easy mac and cheese, comfort food, cheddar cheese, quick dinner

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/creamy-mac-and-cheese-made-with-evaporated-milk-easy-homemade-recipe/