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Quick & Creamy Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce (Better Than Taco Bell)

Close-up of tortilla chips generously covered in bright, smooth nacho cheese sauce in a white bowl.
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Make this restaurant-style nacho cheese sauce in under 10 minutes. It is incredibly creamy, uses real cheddar, and is the perfect quick topping for nachos, fries, or game day snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon pickled jalapeño juice (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly. Continue cooking for about 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil rapidly.
  4. Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, a handful at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is fully melted and smooth before adding more. This prevents the sauce from becoming grainy.
  5. Once all the cheese is incorporated, stir in the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, and jalapeño juice, if using.
  6. Stir until the spices are evenly distributed and the sauce is velvety smooth.
  7. Remove from heat immediately. Serve warm over your favorite chips or toppings.

Notes

  • For the smoothest texture, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce gritty.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick while sitting, whisk in a tablespoon of milk or water until you reach your desired consistency.
  • This recipe makes a fantastic copycat Taco Bell cheese sauce; add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want extra spice.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerycourier.com/quick-creamy-nacho-cheese-sauce/