Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food that never fails to bring warmth and satisfaction to any meal. The creamy, rich texture and the comforting taste make it a favorite among all ages. One secret ingredient that can elevate this classic dish to new heights is evaporated milk. In this article, we will share a delightful macaroni and cheese recipe using evaporated milk, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture that will impress your family and friends.
Evaporated milk is a sweetened, condensed milk that has had about 60% of its water content removed. This concentrated milk adds a rich, creamy texture to dishes, making it an ideal choice for macaroni and cheese. The high-fat content of evaporated milk contributes to the richness of the dish, while the sweetened flavor adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory cheese perfectly.
Here’s a simple yet delicious macaroni and cheese recipe using evaporated milk:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 cups evaporated milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, creating a roux.
- Slowly pour in the evaporated milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheeses until melted and smooth.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, pour the cooked macaroni into the bottom. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious macaroni and cheese made with evaporated milk!
Using evaporated milk in this macaroni and cheese recipe not only adds a rich, creamy texture but also ensures that the dish is full of flavor. Give this recipe a try and experience the perfect comfort food that everyone will love.