Easy Cheese Sauce

Transform your meals with this creamy, velvety Easy Cheese Sauce that comes together in just 15 minutes! Perfect for pasta, vegetables, nachos, or as a dip, this foolproof recipe starts with a simple roux of butter and flour before being enriched with milk and sharp cheddar cheese. The addition of optional paprika gives it a subtle smoky twist, while basic pantry staples like salt and pepper let you customize the flavor to perfection. With minimal effort and maximum comfort-food appeal, this homemade cheese sauce is an irresistible alternative to prepackaged versions. It's quick, versatile, and guaranteed to become a go-to for all your cheesy cravings!

Nutriscore Rating: 51/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.125 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.125 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until fully melted but not browned.

Step 2

Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. The mixture should form a smooth paste, known as a roux.

Step 3

Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5

Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.

Step 6

Serve immediately over your favorite dish, or keep warm over low heat for up to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	401.1 grams (401.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	822

Total Fat 65.00g	83%
Saturated Fat 41.10g	206%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 202mg	67%
Sodium 1413mg	61%
Total Carbohydrate 27.80g	10%
Dietary Fiber 0.60g	2%
Total Sugars 12.10g
Protein 37.80g	76%

Vitamin D 124IU	620%
Calcium 1103mg	85%
Iron 2mg	9%
Potassium 518mg	11%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 69.0%

Protein: 17.8%

Carbs: 13.1%