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Creamy Cheese Sauce

Lakshman Rao Sarnala
This Creamy Cheese Sauce is rich, smooth, and full of cheesy goodness. Perfect for pasta, nachos, vegetables, and more—ready in just 10 minutes!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Condiments, sauces
Cuisine French
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • ½ tsp mustard powder (for depth of flavor)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)

Instructions
 

  • Melt the butter – In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Make a roux – Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and slightly golden.
  • Add milk – Slowly pour in milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  • Melt the cheese – Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in shredded cheese, whisking until fully melted and smooth.
  • Season the sauce – Add garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Stir well.
  • Serve immediately – Remove from heat and serve warm over pasta, nachos, vegetables, or as a dip.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture (pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect smoothness).
  • Adjust thickness by adding more milk for a thinner sauce or more cheese for a thicker consistency.
  • Reheating tip: Reheat gently over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Keyword Cheese Sauce Recipe, Creamy Cheese Sauce, Easy Cheese Sauce