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The Best 5-Minute Creamy Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce

Close-up of tortilla chips generously covered in smooth, bright orange nacho cheese dip in a white bowl.
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Make a restaurant-style, velvety smooth nacho cheese sauce from scratch in under 10 minutes. This quick cheese sauce recipe uses real cheddar to create a dip better than store-bought, perfect for game day or topping nachos.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)

Instructions

  1. Grate your cheese first. Keep the heat low to prevent graininess later.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  3. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
  5. 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 the next. Do not let the sauce boil.
  6. Stir in the salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, if using.
  7. Continue stirring until the sauce is completely smooth and velvety. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk until you reach your desired consistency for dipping or drizzling.
  8. Serve immediately over tortilla chips, fries, or baked potatoes for the best homemade nacho cheese experience.

Notes

  • Shred your own cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that cause graininess.
  • Keep the heat low when melting the cheese to achieve a truly smooth, liquid cheese dip texture.
  • This recipe makes a great copycat nacho cheese flavor for your next party appetizer spread.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yummagnet.com/quick-creamy-homemade-nacho-cheese/