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Homemade Cheddar Cheese Sauce photo

Cheddar Cheese Sauce

This Cheddar Cheese Sauce is SO EASY! A creamy, cheesy delight perfect for drizzling over nachos, pasta, or veggies.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half for creaminess
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Cheddar cheese can substitute with gouda or Monterey jack
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black or white pepper
  • Cayenne pepper optional, for heat

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
  • Grater

Method
 

  1. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly to form a roux.
  2. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of whole milk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in 1 1/2 cups of grated Cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  4. Add 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Optionally add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more cheese if desired.
  6. Serve your Cheddar Cheese Sauce over nachos, pasta, or veggies!

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk if it thickens.
  • This sauce can be frozen for up to a month; thaw before reheating.