Snappy Cheddar Sauce (Printable)
Creamy, tangy cheddar sauce with a spicy kick. Perfect drizzle for nachos, veggies, and potatoes.
# What You Need:
→ Dairy
01 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
02 - 1 cup whole milk
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Pantry
04 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
05 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
06 - 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
07 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
# How To Make It:
01 - Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until mixture forms a smooth paste.
02 - Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
03 - Reduce heat to low. Add Dijon mustard, hot sauce, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to incorporate.
04 - Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until completely melted and sauce reaches smooth consistency.
05 - Taste sauce and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve immediately while hot for optimal texture and flavor.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- This sauce comes together in twenty minutes and transforms everything it touches into something people fight over
- The sharp cheddar creates this incredible velvety texture that clings perfectly to whatever you pour it on
02 -
- Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that will make your sauce grainy instead of smooth
- If your sauce starts to separate or look oily, whisk in a splash of cold milk and it should come back together beautifully
03 -
- Grate the cheese while the milk is heating up so you are ready to add it immediately when the time comes
- Room temperature milk incorporates more easily than cold milk straight from the refrigerator