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Nacho Cheese Sauce

This creamy and flavorful nacho cheese sauce is perfect for drizzling over tortilla chips or as a delicious dip to elevate your snack time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: A few dashes of hot sauce

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth roux but does not brown.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
  5. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and mustard.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce to taste.
  7. Remove from heat and serve warm over tortilla chips or as desired.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This sauce is best served immediately but can be gently reheated with a splash of milk.