Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe with Evaporated Milk | Easy & Creamy

Evaporated milk creates creamy, rich baked mac and cheese without heavy cream. It offers better texture, stability, and flavor compared to regular milk. This guide covers ingredients, step-by-step baking instructions, tips for creaminess, and storage methods. Substitutions and optional add-ins help customize the dish. Serve with proteins or veggies for a full meal.

Why Use Evaporated Milk in Mac and Cheese

Evaporated milk makes baked mac and cheese creamier without heavy cream.

It adds rich flavor and smooth texture. Regular milk can't match that.

Benefits of Evaporated Milk

• Thicker than regular milk
• Higher fat content for richness
• No curdling when baked
• Longer shelf life

Evaporated Milk vs Other Milks

Evaporated milk gives you most of heavy cream's benefits at lower cost.

You don't need to buy expensive cheeses or extra butter.

Ingredients You Need for This Baked Mac and Cheese

Basic ingredients make this dish rich and flavorful.

No fancy items needed. Most kitchens have these already.

Core Ingredients List

• 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)

Optional Add-Ons

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp chopped jalapeños

Ingredient Substitutions

Use what you have. Taste stays great with swaps.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Bake Perfect Mac and Cheese

Follow these steps for creamy baked mac and cheese every time.

Prepare the Pasta

• Boil 4 cups water in large pot
• Add 1 tsp salt and pasta
• Cook 2 minutes less than package directions
• Drain and set aside

Make the Cheese Sauce

• Melt 2 tbsp butter in saucepan over medium heat
• Whisk in 2 tbsp flour until smooth
• Cook 1 minute stirring constantly
• Slowly add 1 cup evaporated milk
• Whisk until thickened
• Remove from heat
• Stir in 2 cups cheese until melted
• Add salt, pepper, paprika

Combine and Bake

• Mix cheese sauce with cooked pasta
• Pour into greased 8x8 baking dish
• Sprinkle optional breadcrumbs on top
• Bake 350°F for 25-30 minutes
• Top browns golden
• Let cool 5 minutes before serving

Cooking Times Table

Tips for Creamiest Results Every Time

Small changes make big difference in texture and flavor.

Key Techniques for Creaminess

• Use full-fat evaporated milk
• Shred cheese fresh from block
• Never boil the cheese sauce
• Season each layer

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pro Methods

• Warm evaporated milk before adding
• Stir cheese in slowly off heat
• Let baked dish rest 5 minutes
• Add pasta water to thin sauce

Serving Suggestions and Storage Guide

Serve hot for best texture and flavor experience.

Best Serving Pairings

• Grilled chicken or pork chops
• Green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls

Storage Instructions

Reheating Methods

• Oven: 350°F covered 20-25 minutes
• Microwave: 1-minute intervals stirring
• Skillet: Low heat with splash of milk

Signs It's Gone Bad

• Sour smell
• Visible mold
• Slime texture
• Off taste