Description
This Best Homemade Cheese Sauce Recipe is a quick and creamy cheese sauce made from scratch using sharp cheddar, butter, flour, and milk. Perfect for drizzling over vegetables, fries, nachos, or any dish that needs a rich and smooth cheese boost. Ready in just 7 minutes, it’s a versatile sauce that comes together easily on the stovetop with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk (can substitute half and half or 2%, but avoid skim)
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Cheese and Milk: Grate the sharp cheddar cheese using a box grater for the best texture. Warm the milk slightly in the microwave to help keep the sauce smooth and avoid lumps during cooking.
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth, bubbly, and begins to cook out the raw flour flavor, about 1 minute.
- Add Milk and Season: Slowly pour the warmed milk into the roux while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add salt and continue whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the grated cheese, whisking well after each addition. Continue stirring until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is glossy and fully combined.
- Finish and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust salt as needed. Serve immediately over your favorite dishes like veggies, nachos, or fries. Enjoy the sauce hot and creamy.
Notes
- Warm the milk before adding to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and smoother texture.
- Adjust salt according to your cheese’s saltiness.
- Serve immediately as the sauce thickens as it cools.
- This sauce can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen.
