Quick & Creamy Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce
Make a rich, smooth nacho cheese sauce in minutes using simple ingredients. This recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor perfect for dipping chips, topping fries, or loading nachos.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 7 min
- Total Time: 12 min
- Yield: About 1.5 cups 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste (roux). Cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring often.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Do not boil the sauce after adding the cheese, as it may become grainy.
- Stir in the cayenne pepper, if using.
- Serve immediately over nachos, fries, or use as a dip.
Notes
- Shred your own cheese from a block for the smoothest melt; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce gritty.
- If the sauce thickens too much while sitting, whisk in a splash of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
- For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or a small amount of diced green chilies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0.3
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 9
- Cholesterol: 35
Find it online: https://dishicious.com/easy-nacho-cheese-sauce-recipe/