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Easy 4-Ingredient Cheese Sauce Recipe

4.8 from 138 reviews

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.

Ingredients

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Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly.
  4. 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.
  5. 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