Macaroni & cheese is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to countless tables around the world. While there are countless variations of this classic dish, one that stands out is the macaroni & cheese recipe with evaporated milk. This simple yet delicious twist adds a creamy richness to the dish, making it even more irresistible.
Evaporated milk is a canned milk product that has had about 60% of its water removed. This concentrated milk adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to recipes, making it a perfect choice for macaroni & cheese. In this article, we will explore the art of making macaroni & cheese with evaporated milk, and share a tried-and-tested recipe that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s discuss the benefits of using evaporated milk in macaroni & cheese. Firstly, it adds a smooth, creamy texture that is unmatched by regular milk or heavy cream. Secondly, it provides a rich, indulgent flavor that complements the savory pasta and cheese perfectly. Lastly, evaporated milk is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes, making it a must-have in your pantry.
Now, let’s get to the recipe. The following macaroni & cheese recipe with evaporated milk is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a family favorite:
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of elbow macaroni
– 2 cups of evaporated milk
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon of mustard powder (optional)
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, salt, pepper, and mustard powder (if using) and whisk until well combined.
4. Gradually pour in the evaporated milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
8. Transfer the macaroni & cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
9. If desired, sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs for added texture and a golden brown crust.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
11. Allow the macaroni & cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, comforting macaroni & cheese with evaporated milk!
Macaroni & cheese with evaporated milk is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next family gathering or dinner party. So go ahead and try this recipe, and let the magic of evaporated milk transform your macaroni & cheese into a delectable masterpiece.
