Evaporated Milk

Bos taurus Dairy

Evaporated Milk Dairy

At a Glance

  • Category Dairy

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

Shelf-stable cow's milk from which about 60% of the water has been removed, resulting in a richer, creamier consistency.

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.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Evaporated Milk are:

Creamy slightly cooked milk flavor neutral

Chef’s Secret

For a richer, creamier mac and cheese without adding heavy cream, use evaporated milk; its cooked milk flavor also deepens the cheese sauce.

Best Substitutes

Heavy Cream

for richness, less water removed
Ratio 1:1

Half-and-Half

Ratio 1:1

Whole Milk

use more, add a thickener

Buying Guide

Look for unsweetened evaporated milk; check best-by dates. Also available in fat-free versions.

Recipes Using Evaporated Milk

Poultry Main Dish Course Preparation

5 Can Casserole

This comforting 5-Can Chicken Casserole recipe is a family favorite! A quick and easy weeknight meal, this recipe uses convenient canned ingredients for a delicious and satisfying casserole. Originally adapted from Recipezaar in 2005, this updated version offers options for customization, including adding frozen mixed vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. Get ready to enjoy this creamy, cheesy chicken bake in under 30 minutes!

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Easy Stove Top Taste Mood Equipment

5 Minute 2 Tomato Bisque

Whip up this creamy, dreamy tomato bisque in just 5 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a sophisticated appetizer, this vibrant bisque is bursting with fresh tomato flavor and ready in a flash. Enjoy!

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Dietary Low Calorie Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less

Abby's Pumpkin Pie Crustless Custard

Skip the crust, not the flavor! This light and low-fat pumpkin pie custard is a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for a cozy autumn evening, this recipe is surprisingly easy and can be baked in ramekins, custard cups, or even coffee mugs! Enjoy the creamy texture and warm spices of pumpkin pie without the heavy crust.

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Presentation Main Ingredient Beginner Cook Low In Something

Alice's Zucchini Cheese Casserole

Transform a sack of zucchini into a cheesy, bubbly casserole your family will crave! This easy recipe, passed down from Aunt Alice in 1970s Oklahoma, is a delicious and comforting side or main dish. Perfect for using up extra zucchini and guaranteed to be a family favorite. Get ready for a taste of nostalgic goodness!

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Course 5 Ingredients Or Less Desserts Course

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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Oven Preparation For Large Groups Equipment

Almond Roca Bars

Indulge in the irresistible crunch and creamy sweetness of homemade Almond Roca Bars! This easy recipe is perfect for holiday baking or any special occasion. These delightful bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the rich flavor of buttery toffee with crunchy almonds and decadent chocolate. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant dessert.

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Beverages Beverages Chocolate Time To Make

Annacia's Spice Islands Hot Chocolate Lighter

Indulge in a guilt-free twist on classic hot chocolate! This lighter version of the beloved Spice Islands Hot Chocolate maintains the rich, warm flavors you crave, but with significantly fewer calories and fat. Perfect for those watching their weight or managing diabetes, this recipe uses skim milk and nonfat powdered milk to create a delicious and satisfying treat. Inspired by recipe #188721, this adaptation expertly captures the original's essence while making it a healthier choice. Enjoy the comforting warmth of spices and a hint of chocolate without the compromise!

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Easy Apples Fruit Seasonal

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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Equipment Equipment Dietary Main Dish

Army Lou's Soul Food Macaroni And Cheese

Craving rich, creamy, soul-satisfying macaroni and cheese? This recipe, straight from the pages of Midwest Living (June 2006!), delivers an unforgettable taste sensation. No more Chicago trips needed – get ready for the ultimate comfort food experience! This recipe is unbelievably cheesy and creamy, you won't believe how easy it is to make!

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Canadian Canadian Christmas Desserts

Aunt Nan's Cranberry Pudding

This family-favorite cranberry pudding recipe has been a Christmas tradition for generations! Easy to make ahead and freeze for later, this delightful treat features tender cranberry-studded muffins topped with a luscious warm butter sauce. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.

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Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less North American Dinner Party

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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Main Ingredient Occasion 4 Hours Or Less Eggs Dairy

Basic Spanish Flan

Indulge in the creamy, dreamy perfection of our Basic Spanish Flan! This classic dessert, with its rich custard and caramel topping, boasts a taste of Spain with influences from Mexico, the Caribbean, and Cuba. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, transporting you to sun-drenched shores with every bite. Learn how to make this beloved flan, a staple across various cultures, and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!

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Meat Taste Mood Preparation To Go

Beef And Hash Browns Dinner Crock Pot

Craving a comfort food masterpiece? This slow-cooker Beef and Hash Browns Crock-Pot Dinner is the ultimate cheesy, savory delight! Tender ground beef, crispy hash browns, creamy corn, and sharp cheddar cheese meld together in a ridiculously delicious and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!

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Ground Beef Easy Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less

Beef And Tortilla Bake

Craving a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner? This Beef and Tortilla Bake is your weeknight hero! Savory seasoned beef, layered with creamy beans, zesty enchilada sauce, and crunchy tortilla chips, then baked to bubbly perfection. Top with a dollop of sour cream and guacamole for an extra-delicious touch. Ready in under an hour!

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Sauces Sweet Sauces Low Protein Dietary

Best Ever Hot Caramel Sauce

Indulge in the irresistible richness of our Best Ever Hot Caramel Sauce! Perfect drizzled over vanilla ice cream, it's also heavenly on warm apple pie or as the star of a decadent hot caramel sundae. This easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – so much so, it often beats out birthday cake! Make a batch (or two!) for thoughtful teacher gifts or festive Christmas presents; simply pour into ½-pint jars, tie with ribbon, and remind recipients to refrigerate. Prepare for rave reviews!

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Candy Fudge Fruit Eggs Dairy

Best Ever Peanut Butter Fudge

Indulge in the ultimate peanut butter fudge recipe! This decadent treat boasts a rich, creamy texture and intense peanut butter flavor that will leave you craving more. Easy to make with simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing your friends and family. Get ready for the most amazing peanut butter fudge you've ever tasted!

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Taste Mood Poultry Meat Equipment

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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Low In Something Low Sodium To Go Low Carb

Craze E Turkey Meatballs In Sauce

These incredibly easy and delicious turkey meatballs simmer in a rich, savory mushroom-tomato sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or your next office potluck! Impress your taste buds with this quick and flavorful recipe – ready in under an hour!

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