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Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 77 reviews

This homemade nacho cheese sauce is a creamy, smooth, and flavorful cheese dip made from scratch using sharp cheddar cheese, butter, flour, and milk with a hint of cayenne for a gentle kick. Perfect for drizzling over nachos, fries, or using as a dip for your favorite snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Sauce 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

  1. Melt Butter: Melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat until fully liquidized and bubbling lightly.
  2. Add Flour and Cayenne: Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper, cooking the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce and add flavor without burning.
  3. Incorporate Milk: Slowly whisk in 1 cup of milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat to activate the thickening agents.
  4. Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add 8 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Serve Warm: Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, remove it from heat and serve immediately with nachos, fries, or as a dip for your favorite snacks.

Notes

  • Use processed American cheese for a smoother, creamier texture but shredded sharp cheddar provides a bolder taste.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level or omit if you want a milder sauce.
  • For a thinner sauce, add a splash more milk.
  • To keep sauce warm and smooth longer, use a double boiler or slow cooker on low heat.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently while stirring to avoid separation.

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

Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/homemade-nacho-cheese-sauce-recipe/