Description
This creamy and flavorful cheese sauce is the perfect accompaniment for fries, providing a smooth, cheesy dip that’s easy to make in just 10 minutes using simple ingredients like butter, flour, milk, and cheddar cheese. Enhanced with optional garlic, onion powder, and paprika, it’s a versatile sauce that elevates any snack or dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk (or any milk of choice)
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
Seasonings
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until a smooth, lump-free roux forms.
- Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep cooking and whisking for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add the Cheese: Lower the heat to low and slowly incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and season with salt and black pepper according to your taste. Mix until fully combined.
- Serve and Enjoy: Pour the cheese sauce over hot fries or serve it as a dip on the side. Enjoy this rich and creamy cheese sauce immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can use any cheese of your choice, but cheddar gives a classic flavor and good melting texture.
- For a thinner sauce, add a little extra milk until desired consistency is reached.
- This sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to refresh its creaminess.
- Adjust spices to suit your preference or omit them for a simpler cheese sauce.
- Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the sauce effectively.
