Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This homemade nacho cheese sauce is creamy, cheesy, and perfect for dipping or drizzling over your favorite snacks. Made with simple ingredients, it comes together quickly on the stove for a flavorful treat that elevates any appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or cubed processed American cheese)
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt 2 tablespoons salted butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper; cook for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux.
- Step 3: Slowly whisk in 1 cup milk and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
- Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and add 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Step 5: Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Tips & Variations
- Use processed American cheese for an extra creamy and smooth texture.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky twist.
- For a thinner sauce, add more milk gradually until desired consistency.
Storage
Store leftover cheese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain smoothness. Add a splash of milk while reheating if the sauce thickens too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, sharp cheddar provides great flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack, Colby, or processed cheese for different textures and tastes.
Why is my cheese sauce grainy?
A grainy texture can occur if the cheese is overheated or if the sauce is cooked too quickly. To avoid this, melt the cheese over low heat and stir constantly for a smooth finish.
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Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup of cheese sauce, serving 4 1x
Description
A creamy and flavorful homemade nacho cheese sauce made from a simple roux of butter, flour, and milk, melted with sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Perfect for dipping tortilla chips or drizzling over nachos.
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or cubed processed American cheese)
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Melt Butter: Melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat until fully melted.
- Make Roux: Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper, stirring constantly and cooking for 1 to 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk: Slowly whisk in 1 cup of milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, allowing it to thicken.
- Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in 8 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately as a dip for nachos or as a topping.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for best flavor, but processed American cheese can be used for extra creaminess.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.
- If sauce thickens too much upon standing, gently reheat and add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- For a smoother sauce, shred the cheese finely before adding.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: nacho cheese sauce, cheese dip, homemade cheese sauce, sharp cheddar sauce, easy cheese dip, nachos
