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Quick & Creamy 15-Minute Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce

A pile of tortilla chips completely smothered in thick, bright orange nacho cheese sauce.
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Make this dependable, fast recipe for the best nacho cheese sauce, ready in under 15 minutes. This homemade cheese sauce creates a restaurant-style, velvety smooth texture that beats any jarred dip. It is perfect for game day, dipping chips, or topping fries.

Ingredients

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  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux. Do not let it brown.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, if using.
  5. Add the shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time, stirring until each addition is completely melted and smooth before adding the next. Do not return the sauce to a boil after adding the cheese, or it may become grainy.
  6. Serve the smooth nacho cheese sauce immediately over tortilla chips, nachos, or fries.

Notes

  • Shred your own cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick upon standing, whisk in a tablespoon of warm milk until you reach your desired consistency.
  • This recipe makes a great foundation for a copycat Taco Bell cheese sauce; add a small pinch of white pepper and a dash of mild green chili powder for a similar flavor profile.

Nutrition

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