Description
This creamy and flavorful Nacho Cheese Sauce combines sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with a blend of spices to create the perfect dip or topping for your favorite snacks. Made from scratch with a simple roux base, this sauce is quick to prepare and ideal for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- â…› teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Create the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. This process forms a roux which will thicken the sauce.
- Add the milk: Slowly pour in 1 cup of whole milk while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth mixture. Continue whisking and cooking for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
- Melt the cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the thickened milk mixture. Stir gently until both cheeses melt completely and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the sauce: Add ¼ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, along with ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper if using. Add salt to taste. Stir well to fully combine all the flavors.
- Finish and serve: Cook the sauce for an additional minute on low heat to ensure all ingredients are incorporated. Serve immediately while warm and melty for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a smoother cheese sauce, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Keep the cheese sauce warm in a slow cooker set to low or over very low heat on the stovetop to maintain its creamy consistency without scorching.
