Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Close-up of rich, creamy, bright orange nacho cheese sauce served in a small white ramekin.

Quick & Creamy Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce (5-Minute Recipe)


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Ahazzam
  • Total Time: 10 min
  • Yield: About 1.5 cups
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

You can make rich, smooth nacho cheese sauce right in your kitchen in under five minutes. This recipe uses simple ingredients to give you that perfect, velvety texture for dipping chips or drizzling over your favorite snacks.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper


Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken slightly.
  4. Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time, stirring until each addition is completely melted and smooth before adding more. Do not let the sauce boil.
  5. Stir in the salt and cayenne pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Remove from heat and serve immediately over nachos, fries, or use as a dip.

Notes

  • Shred your own cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
  • For an extra smooth texture, remove the sauce from the heat immediately once all the cheese is melted.
  • If the sauce gets too thick while sitting, whisk in a tablespoon of warm milk until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Prep Time: 5 min
  • Cook Time: 5 min
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup
  • Calories: 165
  • Sugar: 1
  • Sodium: 350
  • Fat: 13
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5
  • Trans Fat: 0.3
  • Carbohydrates: 3
  • Fiber: 0.1
  • Protein: 9
  • Cholesterol: 35