Cheddar Cheese Sauce with a Bechamel Base
Elevate your dishes with this rich and creamy Cheddar Cheese Sauce made from a classic béchamel base. Perfect for drizzling over steamed vegetables, dipping soft pretzels, or creating the ultimate mac and cheese, this versatile sauce combines silky smoothness with indulgent sharp cheddar flavor. The recipe starts with a simple roux of butter and flour, gradually blended with whole milk for a lusciously thick texture. Sharp cheddar cheese is melted in for a bold, tangy finish, while optional hints of ground mustard and paprika provide an extra layer of depth and visual flair. Ready in just 15 minutes, this luxurious cheese sauce is an effortless way to add gourmet appeal to any meal!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.25 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoons ground mustard (optional)
- 0.25 teaspoons paprika (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Once the butter has melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should become smooth and slightly golden, but avoid letting it brown.
Gradually pour in the milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue until all the milk is incorporated.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, stirring constantly to ensure the cheese melts evenly.
Once all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, season with salt, black pepper, and ground mustard (if using). Stir well to combine.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. If desired, sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Use immediately or keep warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
307 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 23.4 g | 30% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.1 g | 76% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 72 mg | 24% | |
| Sodium | 445 mg | 19% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 10.9 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.4 g | 1% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.0 g | ||
| Protein | 15.1 g | 30% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.9 mcg | 9% | |
| Calcium | 443 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 0.5 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 218 mg | 5% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
