Dairy Product | Vegetarian Gluten Free

Evaporated Milk

Bos taurus (source of cow's milk) Allergens: Milk
Evaporated Milk

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Not applicable (animal product)
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's Milk

The Forktionary Angle

"The dairy workhorse of pantry staples, offering creamy richness and stability without refrigeration until opened."

Definition

Cow's milk from which about 60% of the water has been removed by evaporation, then canned and sterilized, resulting in a creamy, concentrated product.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Creamy, Slightly Caramelized
TextureViscous, Smooth, Creamy
AromaMilky, Faint Caramel
AcidityNeutral

Technical Metrics

Shelf Life (Unopened)

Up to 1 year or more in pantry, refrigeration required after opening.

Usage Ratio

Can be diluted 1:1 with water for regular milk, or used undiluted for richness.

Water Content Reduction

Approximately 60% of water removed.

Nutrition Facts

Per 30 ml (2 tbsp)
Calories134 kcal
Total Fat7.5 g
Saturated Fat4.5 g
Trans Fat0.3 g
Cholesterol25 mg
Protein7 g
Total Carbohydrate10 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars10 g
Calcium250 mg
Iron0.1 mg
Potassium350 mg

Chef’s Secret

Whipping evaporated milk (chilled first) can create a lighter, dairy-free whipped topping for desserts, though it won't hold shape as long as cream.

Substitutions

Best Match

Heavy Cream

1:1

Provides similar richness and texture in many recipes, higher fat content.

Half-and-Half

1:1

Thicker than milk, less rich than cream, good for savory dishes.

Whole Milk (simmered to reduce)

2.5:1 (milk to desired evap milk)

Best homemade option for similar concentration, requires time.

Coconut Milk (full-fat)

1:1

Dairy-free alternative, adds coconut flavor, suitable for many desserts/sauces.

Buying Guide

Look for brands with minimal additives. Check for fat content (whole, low-fat, skim). Check for fortified Vitamin D.

Flavor Pairings

Coffee tea cream sauces desserts soups casseroles.

Recipes Using Evaporated Milk

Occasion Occasion Holiday Event Preparation

7 Layer Jello

Get ready for a burst of fruity flavor with this stunning 7-Layer Jello recipe! Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any special occasion, this vibrant dessert is easy to customize with your favorite jello flavors and colors. Each layer is a delicious surprise, culminating in a creamy Cool Whip topping and crunchy pecans. Made with simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is sure to impress! (Adaptable for sugar-free and low-fat options)

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Preparation North American Southwestern United States Meat

A True Texan's King Ranch Chicken

Craving authentic Texan comfort food? This King Ranch Chicken Casserole recipe delivers the ultimate feel-good experience! A treasured recipe from a renowned Humble, Texas caterer, this dish is bursting with cheesy, creamy goodness and tender chicken. Easily adaptable for a low-carb lifestyle by substituting your favorite low-carb tortilla chips (like R.W. Garcia) for the traditional Tostitos. Prepare for a taste of Texas that will leave you wanting more!

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Dietary 5 Ingredients Or Less Low Sodium Dietary

Absolutely Great Secret Simple Mashed Potatoes

Discover the secret to unbelievably creamy mashed potatoes! This recipe, shared by a Southern gentleman, uses just one surprising ingredient to achieve rich, decadent flavor – evaporated milk! Forget the butter overload; this recipe proves that simple is best. With minimal butter and the creamy richness of evaporated milk, you'll get perfectly smooth, dreamy mashed potatoes every time. Feel free to customize with roasted garlic, herbs, or your favorite seasonings. Get ready to experience mashed potatoes like never before!

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5 Ingredients Or Less 5 Ingredients Or Less Easy Desserts

Almond Jello

This refreshingly light and dreamy Almond Jello dessert is a taste of heaven! A treasured family recipe, passed down through generations and translated especially for you, this recipe delivers an unforgettable culinary experience. The delicate almond flavor perfectly complements the creamy texture, creating a dessert that's both elegant and easy to make. Prepare to be amazed!

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Easy 4 Hours Or Less Fall Course

Apple Walnut Cobbler

Warm up your kitchen with this irresistible Apple Walnut Cobbler! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a cozy night in. Imagine the sweet, juicy apples baked to perfection, mingling with crunchy walnuts, all nestled under a golden-brown, buttery topping. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful treat!

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Eggs Dairy Kid Friendly American Oven

Aunt Darlene's Macaroni Cheese

Prepare for a macaroni and cheese experience unlike any other! This recipe, Aunt Darlene's Legendary Macaroni and Cheese, is a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to disappear at any potluck. Creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible, it's the perfect comfort food that elevates macaroni and cheese to a whole new level. Your kids will adore it, and you'll be the star of every gathering. Get ready to make the best mac and cheese of your life!

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Main Ingredient 3 Steps Or Less 4 Hours Or Less Easy

Authentic Mexican Flan

Discover the secret to a truly authentic Mexican flan, a recipe passed down through four generations in Durango, Mexico! Unlike many modern variations, this recipe skips the cream cheese for a richer, more traditional flavor that will transport you straight to Mexico. My mother-in-law's time-honored recipe is finally revealed, promising a taste of heavenly, creamy perfection. Get ready for a culinary experience that's utterly divine!

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One Dish Meal Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Vegetables

Awesome Lobster Chowder

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy Lobster Chowder recipe, inspired by Canadian Living Magazine! This chunky, rich chowder is bursting with succulent lobster and tender potatoes. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a taste of the Atlantic!

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Chowders One Dish Meal Soups Stews Chowders

Bacon And Potato Chowder

Indulge in this hearty and flavorful Bacon and Potato Chowder! Made with smoky bacon (best if sourced from a butcher!), creamy potatoes, and a touch of magic, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and perfect for a chilly evening. Get ready for a taste of pure comfort food bliss! #BaconChowder #PotatoChowder #ComfortFood #EasyRecipe #SmokedBacon #ButcherShop

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Time To Make Time To Make Meat Course

Bacon Swiss Meatloaf

Elevate your classic meatloaf with this mouthwatering Bacon Swiss Meatloaf recipe! This quick and easy recipe from Quick Cooking Magazine is a delicious twist on a family favorite, packed with savory bacon and creamy Swiss cheese. Get ready for juicy, flavorful perfection in just 80 minutes!

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Soups Stews 60 Minutes Or Less Occasion Soups Stews

Bacon Shrimp And Corn Chowder

Indulge in this rich and flavorful Bacon, Shrimp, and Corn Chowder! This New England-style chowder is even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Maine shrimp (or your favorite small shrimp) mingle with crispy bacon, sweet corn, and creamy dairy for a taste of coastal comfort food. A touch of heat from crushed red pepper (optional) adds a delicious kick. Get ready for a taste of the sea that will leave you craving more!

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Meat North American Cuisine Egg Free

Bacon Swiss And Mushroom Meatloaf

Indulge in this mouthwatering gluten-free Bacon Swiss and Mushroom Meatloaf! Packed with savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Swiss cheese, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters will be begging for seconds! Enjoy this hearty and flavorful meatloaf for a comforting family dinner.

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Beef Beef Preparation Ground Beef

Barbecue Meatballs And Rice

These addictive barbecue meatballs are a family favorite! Tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, served over fluffy rice. Perfect for meal prep – make a big batch and freeze for future delicious dinners. Get ready for your family to gobble these up!

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Main Ingredient Course Preparation Eggs Dairy

Barbecue Scalloped Potatoes

Elevate your comfort food with this mouthwatering Barbecue Scalloped Potatoes recipe, inspired by Southern Living! Tender potato slices are layered with a tangy barbecue sauce and creamy cheese mixture, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a side dish for grilled pork, chicken, or even steak! This recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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Main Ingredient Time To Make Dietary Main Dish

Barbecued Meatballs

Juicy, flavorful barbecued meatballs, perfect for a quick and inexpensive weeknight dinner! This family-favorite recipe, passed down from my mom, is surprisingly simple to make and delivers big on taste. Get ready for tender meatballs swimming in a tangy, smoky barbecue sauce – the perfect comfort food.

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Healthy 2 Preparation Low Cholesterol Easy

Biggest Loser Creamy Tuna Lemon And Garlic Pasta

This lightened-up pasta dish, adapted from the Australian Biggest Loser cookbook, delivers a rich and creamy flavor without the guilt! Using evaporated milk creates a luxuriously creamy sauce with significantly less fat than traditional cream-based recipes. This vibrant recipe combines the deliciousness of tuna with zesty lemon and fragrant garlic. Enjoy this healthy and satisfying meal—perfect for a weeknight dinner! Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes.

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Occasion Easy Main Dish Stove Top

Chicken And Gravy

This easy chicken and gravy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight supper. The rich, creamy gravy complements the tender chicken beautifully, and it's simply divine served over fluffy mashed potatoes (recipe not included). Get ready for a comforting and flavorful meal the whole family will love!

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Time To Make Soups Stews 15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Low Fat Gorgonzola White Bean Soup

This lightened-up Gorgonzola white bean soup is surprisingly creamy and decadent without all the fat! Simple ingredients combine to create a comforting and flavorful bowl perfect for a chilly evening. The subtle sweetness of the vegetables pairs beautifully with the sharp, tangy Gorgonzola, making this soup a true taste sensation. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

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