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Creamy Nacho Cheese Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 67 reviews

This creamy Nacho Cheese sauce is a quick and delicious homemade alternative to store-bought cheese dips. Made with a smooth roux base, melted cheddar, and a touch of cayenne for mild heat, it’s perfect for drizzling over tortilla chips or using as a dip for your favorite snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Melt Butter and Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture is fragrant and slightly thickened, about 1 minute. This forms the roux, which will thicken the sauce.
  2. Add Milk and Thicken: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately remove from the heat to avoid curdling.
  3. Melt Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the milk mixture and stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
  4. Season and Warm Through: Return the saucepan to medium-low heat. Stir in the kosher salt and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce is warmed through, about 2 minutes. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melting texture; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect smoothness.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level or omit if you prefer no heat.
  • For a thinner sauce, add more milk gradually until desired consistency is reached.
  • This cheese sauce is best served immediately but can be gently reheated on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen if necessary.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: nacho cheese sauce, cheddar cheese sauce, homemade cheese dip, cheese sauce recipe, easy cheese sauce

Find it online: https://frommamamaya.com/creamy-nacho-cheese-sauce-recipe/