Go Back
–+ servings
Cheese Sauce

Creamy Cheese Sauce That's Perfect for Dipping and Drizzling

This Creamy Cheese Sauce is perfect for dipping and drizzling, elevating your snacks with bold cheddar flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauces
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter A rich base for a roux, giving a luxurious flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Thickens the cheese sauce for that perfect creamy consistency; gluten-free flour works for gluten-free diets.
  • 1 cup whole milk Adds smoothness and creaminess; use 1-2% milk with a splash of cream for richness.
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese The star ingredient that provides bold cheesy flavor; freshly grated melts much better!
  • 1/4 tsp salt Enhances the cheese's natural taste; adjust according to your cheese’s saltiness.
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder Adds a hint of spice and flavor depth; substitute with paprika if you prefer less heat.
For Serving
  • Pretzels Perfect accompaniments for your delectable cheese sauce!
  • Bread Perfect accompaniments for your delectable cheese sauce!
  • Chips Perfect accompaniments for your delectable cheese sauce!
  • Apples Perfect accompaniments for your delectable cheese sauce!
  • Celery Perfect accompaniments for your delectable cheese sauce!

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cheese Sauce
  1. Begin by placing a medium saucepan over medium heat and adding 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, swirling the pan gently to prevent browning. This should take about 2-3 minutes until the butter is bubbly and fragrant, creating a rich base for your cheese sauce.
  2. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour while constantly stirring with a whisk. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color, indicating that the raw flour flavor has cooked out.
  3. Gradually pour in 1 cup of whole milk while whisking continuously, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly, resembling a smooth custard.
  4. Increase the heat to medium-high and keep whisking the mixture until it thickens further, which should take an additional 2-3 minutes.
  5. Remove the pan from heat and slowly stir in 8 ounces of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the sauce.
  6. Finally, sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder, adjusting the seasoning based on your preference.
  7. Transfer your delicious cheese sauce to a serving bowl, and offer it warm alongside pretzels, chips, or any favorite dippers.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 6gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 200mg

Notes

For best results, always use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese for the best melting properties. Adjust thickness as needed by whisking in more milk.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!