Quick and Creamy Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce
Make the best, smooth nacho cheese dip from scratch in under 10 minutes. This easy recipe is perfect for dipping chips, drizzling over nachos, or serving as a game day cheese dip.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 5 min
- Total Time: 10 min
- Yield: About 1.5 cups
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly. Continue cooking for about 2-3 minutes, stirring often.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted and smooth before adding more. Do not let the sauce boil once the cheese is added.
- Stir in the salt and cayenne pepper, if using.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately for the best texture. This is your best nacho dip!
Notes
- Shred your own cheese; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- For a restaurant style cheese sauce consistency, keep the heat low when adding cheese.
- This recipe is easily doubled for larger parties.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 9
- Cholesterol: 40
Find it online: https://kitchnkudos.com/quick-creamy-nacho-cheese-sauce/