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Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Cheddar Cheese Sauce
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This quick and easy Cheddar Cheese Sauce recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and velvety sauce perfect for drenching vegetables, topping baked potatoes, or swirling into pasta. Made with simple pantry staples and ready in about 10 minutes, this versatile sauce can be customized with spices or herbs to suit your taste and brings warmth and comfort to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup warm whole milk or 2%
  • 1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded (freshly grated recommended)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Make a Roux Base: Start by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste and help thicken the sauce.
  2. Add Milk Gradually: Slowly pour in warm milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring and cook the mixture for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens to a smooth, creamy texture.
  3. Incorporate Cheddar Cheese: Lower the heat and add shredded sharp Cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring until completely melted and the sauce is silky. Avoid boiling at this stage to prevent graininess.
  4. Season and Customize: Season with salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder or paprika to taste. Stir well to blend flavors and adjust to your preference before serving.

Notes

  • Grate your own cheese for a smoother sauce as pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents.
  • Use medium to medium-low heat to prevent burning and keep sauce silky.
  • Whisk constantly while adding milk to ensure a lump-free sauce.
  • Warm milk helps the cheese melt faster and keeps the sauce smooth.
  • Remove sauce from heat once cheese is melted to avoid graininess or oil separation.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheddar cheese sauce, cheese sauce recipe, quick cheese sauce, creamy cheese sauce, easy cheese sauce, cheddar sauce

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/cheddar-cheese-sauce/