Easy 4-Ingredient Cheese Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This easy 4-ingredient cheese sauce is a quick and delicious way to add creamy, cheesy goodness to your meals. Perfect for drizzling over vegetables, nachos, or pasta, it comes together in just minutes with simple pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium-high heat until fully melted.
- Step 2: Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste.
- Step 3: Gradually add 1 cup milk while stirring, then add 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Step 4: Continue whisking until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use sharp or extra sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor, or mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack for a milder sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
- For a spicy kick, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Storage
Store any leftover cheese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, whisking frequently to restore smoothness. Add a little milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use cheeses like Gouda, mozzarella, or a blend, but keep in mind their melting properties and flavor differences.
What can I serve with this cheese sauce?
This sauce pairs well with steamed vegetables, baked potatoes, nachos, macaroni, or as a dip for pretzels and breadsticks.
PrintEasy 4-Ingredient Cheese Sauce Recipe
This Easy 4-Ingredient Cheese Sauce is a quick and creamy homemade cheese sauce perfect for drizzling over pasta, vegetables, or nachos. Made with simple pantry staples—butter, flour, milk, and sharp cheddar cheese—this versatile sauce is smooth, cheesy, and ready in minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups (serves 4) 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Heat over medium-high heat until the butter is completely melted, ensuring it does not brown.
- Make the Roux: Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the melted butter, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, but do not let it brown.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Cheese: Add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the thickened milk mixture. Stir and whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Once the cheese sauce is uniform and velvety, remove from heat and serve immediately over your favorite dishes.
Notes
- Use shredded sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
- To make the sauce thinner, add a little more milk to reach desired consistency.
- This cheese sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Add a pinch of paprika or mustard powder for an extra flavor boost.
Keywords: cheese sauce, cheddar cheese sauce, easy cheese sauce, homemade cheese sauce, 4 ingredient sauce, nacho cheese sauce
