Cheddar Cheese Sauce

This Cheddar Cheese Sauce is SO CREAMY! Perfect for drizzling over veggies or stirring into pasta, it’s an indulgent treat for cheese lovers!

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Sauce

Cuisine: American

1 cup Whole Milk (or half-and-half for creaminess, or 2% milk for a lighter option)
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter for rich flavor
2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (gluten-free all-purpose flour works too)
1 ½ cups Grated Cheddar Cheese (orange or white, or mix it up with other cheeses)
¼ teaspoon Onion Powder for depth of flavor
⅛ teaspoon Garlic Powder to enhance taste
¼ teaspoon Kosher or Sea Salt to balance flavors
¼ teaspoon Black or White Pepper for a hint of spice
to taste Cayenne Pepper (optional, for those who like heat)

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to bubble slightly but be careful not to let it brown.
Add the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the melted butter. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture forms a paste (this is called a roux). It should be bubbly and slightly golden.
Slowly pour in the 1 cup of whole milk while whisking vigorously. This ensures that the flour mixture integrates smoothly into the milk, preventing lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and gradually add the 1 ½ cups of grated cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Mix in the ¼ teaspoon of onion powder, ⅛ teaspoon of garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black or white pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper at this stage.
Your Cheddar Cheese Sauce is ready to be served! Pour it over your favorite dishes or use it as a dip. Enjoy the creamy goodness!