Sauce
Cheese Sauce
On December 10, 2023 by userHere’s a basic and versatile cheese sauce recipe that you can use for various purposes, such as dipping, pouring over vegetables, or as a base for macaroni and cheese:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk works best for a creamier sauce)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorite melting cheeses)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper or mustard for extra flavor
Instructions:
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Make Roux: Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes until it becomes a light golden color. This helps eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Melt Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheese to the milk mixture. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season: Season the cheese sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small amount of mustard for extra flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer.
- Serve: Once the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy, remove it from heat. Serve immediately as a dip, pour it over vegetables, or use it in your favorite recipes.
This homemade cheese sauce is quick to make and provides a great base for various dishes. Experiment with different cheese blends to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your cheesy creations!