Ultimate Cheddar Cheese Sauce Recipe With 9 Incredible Ingredients

Picture this: It’s a rainy Saturday afternoon. The air is thick with the comforting scent of melted butter and sharp cheddar. I’m perched at the counter next to my grandpa, his weathered hands expertly grating cheese while I “help” by sneaking little nibbles. This cheddar cheese sauce recipe isn’t just a collection of ingredients; it’s a time machine, transporting me back to those cozy afternoons filled with laughter and love. It was a weekly event that he looked forward to and would talk about all the time. To this day, that smell brings me back to those memories of my grandpa.

Recipe Background

This recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s simple, versatile, and utterly delicious. It originated as a way to elevate humble ingredients into something special. Think of it drizzled over steamed broccoli, baked potatoes, or even poured generously over a plate of crispy nachos. And of course, no cheese sauce discussion would be complete without mentioning its starring role in mac and cheese.

I usually make it on the weekends when I have a little more time to spend in the kitchen. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover cheese, and it’s always a hit with family and friends. The best part is that it’s so easy to customize. You can add different spices, herbs, or even a splash of hot sauce to create your own signature version.

Ingredients

• ½ cup salted butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 5 cups whole milk
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded gruyere or Monterey Jack cheese (or more cheddar)
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 lb macaroni cooked

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Cheese grater
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

• Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  

• Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. This step is crucial for a smooth sauce.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.
• Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat.
• Add the cheddar cheese, gruyere (or Monterey Jack), and parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

• Stir in the salt, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• If serving with macaroni, add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to combine.
  

Beyond the Basics: Other Ways to Use Cheddar Cheese Sauce

This cheddar cheese sauce is so good, you’ll want to put it on everything. Here are a few of my favorite ways to use it beyond the usual suspects:

• Broccoli Salad Upgrade: Take your broccoli salad to the next level by using this cheddar cheese sauce as a creamy, cheesy dressing. Toss it with cooked broccoli florets, crispy bacon bits, red onion, and sunflower seeds for a flavor explosion.
• Loaded Baked Potato Bar: Set up a baked potato bar with all the fixings, and don’t forget the cheddar cheese sauce! It’s the perfect topping for a hearty and customizable meal.
• Cheesy Quesadillas: Spread a layer of cheddar cheese sauce inside your quesadillas before grilling. It adds a creamy, cheesy element that’s sure to please.
• Vegetable Dip: Serve this cheddar cheese sauce warm with an array of raw vegetables for a fun and flavorful appetizer. Think carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumber.
• Breakfast Upgrade: Pour it over eggs or breakfast burritos.

Tips & Tricks

• Cheese Selection: Using a combination of cheeses adds complexity and depth to the flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite blend.
• Smooth Sauce: The key to a smooth sauce is to whisk constantly, especially when adding the milk and cheese.
• Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes.
• Serving Suggestions: This cheddar cheese sauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it over steamed vegetables, baked potatoes, nachos, or use it as a dip for pretzels or crudités.
• Storage: Store leftover cheddar cheese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk to thin it out.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

 This cheddar cheese sauce recipe is absolutely amazing in my Mac and Cheese recipe. Have you tried it?

What are you going to pour this cheese sauce on?

Leave a comment below and let me know what you think!

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