Homemade Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Name: Homemade Cheddar Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 cups
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk (preferably whole); 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (finely grated); 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

20 min 4 cups Easy

All Recipes

Rich and creamy homemade cheddar cheese sauce perfect for nachos, pasta, or veggies.

Prep

10 min

Cook

10 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

There's something utterly satisfying about a rich and creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Whether you're drizzling it over nachos, tossing it with pasta, or serving it alongside steamed vegetables, this sauce is a versatile delight. Our homemade version is simple to prepare and beats any store-bought option hands down. You control the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome and delicious sauce every time.

Instructions

Melt Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

Pro tip: Ensure the butter is fully melted before adding flour.

Add Flour

Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute. It should form a paste and start to bubble slightly.

Pro tip: Do not let the mixture brown.

Pour in Milk

Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Pro tip: Use a whisk for a smooth consistency.

Add Cheese

Reduce heat to low and add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.

Pro tip: Add cheese in small batches for even melting.

Season

Stir in salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Pro tip: Optional: Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately over your dish of choice.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Grate cheese finely for smoother melting.
Use low heat to avoid curdling.
Whisk constantly for a lump-free sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make homemade cheddar cheese sauce?

Melt butter, add flour to form a roux, whisk in milk, then add cheese until smooth.

Can cheddar cheese sauce be made ahead?

Yes, store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently.

How do you keep cheese sauce from curdling?

Use low heat, add cheese gradually, and whisk constantly.

What can I serve with cheddar cheese sauce?

Serve it over nachos, pasta, or steamed vegetables like broccoli.

How many calories are in homemade cheddar cheese sauce?

There are approximately 200 calories per serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheese sauce warm, drizzled over your favourite dishes like nachos or pasta. It also pairs wonderfully with steamed broccoli or cauliflower as a delightful side. For make-ahead convenience, store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring constantly to maintain its smooth texture.

Nutrition per serving

200

Calories

Protein

16g

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