South American Cheese Sauce
Elevate your meals with this rich and velvety South American Cheese Sauce, a bold twist on a classic favorite. Made with a luscious blend of sharp cheddar, creamy Monterey Jack, and nutty Parmesan, this sauce boasts a luxurious texture and complex flavor profile. The addition of aji amarillo paste adds a subtle, smoky heat with a hint of South American flair, complemented perfectly by smoky paprika and a touch of garlic. Whether you're drizzling it over grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or using it as a decadent dip, this versatile cheese sauce is as indulgent as it is easy to prepare. Ready in just 20 minutes, with an optional garnish of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness, it’s the perfect companion for adding a gourmet touch to your next meal.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 0.5 cups evaporated milk (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 teaspoons aji amarillo paste (or substitute with mild chili paste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Once the butter is fully melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and bubbly.
Gradually whisk in the whole milk and evaporated milk (if using) to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and grated Parmesan cheeses. Stir constantly until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Stir in the aji amarillo paste, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. It will thicken more as it cools.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Use immediately as a topping for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a dip. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to adjust consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1355 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 111.8 g | 143% | |
| Saturated Fat | 68.1 g | 340% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 340 mg | 113% | |
| Sodium | 3138 mg | 136% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 25.3 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.5 g | ||
| Protein | 73.9 g | 148% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.5 mcg | 12% | |
| Calcium | 2170 mg | 167% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 653 mg | 14% | |
*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.
