Nacho Cheese Sauce
Transform your snack game with this creamy, velvety homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce, the ultimate crowd-pleaser for parties or game day gatherings. Made from scratch with simple ingredients like freshly shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and a touch of smoked paprika, this recipe delivers bold, rich flavors that rival any store-bought variety. The inclusion of a jalapeño adds just the right amount of heat, while the smooth roux-based sauce ensures every bite is perfectly gooey and indulgent. Ready in just 15 minutes, this quick and easy cheese dip pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, pretzels, or even as a topping for loaded nachos. Add a little spice to your appetizer platter with this irresistibly cheesy snack that everyone will rave about!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 medium jalapeño (optional), finely diced
- 0.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until fully melted and bubbling.
Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking continuously, until it forms a light golden paste.
Gradually pour in the milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, while continuing to whisk to prevent lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce.
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until fully melted and smooth.
Add the cream cheese and stir until fully incorporated.
Stir in the finely diced jalapeño (if using), smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly to thicken further. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pretzels, or your favorite snack.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1404 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 114.5 g | 147% | |
| Saturated Fat | 72.7 g | 364% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 363 mg | 121% | |
| Sodium | 2224 mg | 97% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35.4 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.6 g | ||
| Protein | 68.2 g | 136% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.9 mcg | 19% | |
| Calcium | 1945 mg | 150% | |
| Iron | 2.9 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 745 mg | 16% | |
*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.
