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Quick and Creamy Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce (Better Than Taco Bell)

Close-up of thick, vibrant orange nacho cheese sauce being poured from a spoon onto a white plate.
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You can make this smooth, restaurant-style nacho cheese sauce in under 10 minutes. This easy cheese dip uses real cheddar to create a velvety texture perfect for dipping chips or topping tacos.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 2 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 tablespoon evaporated milk (or heavy cream)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux. Do not let it brown.
  3. Slowly whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly.
  4. Add the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk well to combine the spices.
  5. Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese to the saucepan one handful at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is fully melted and smooth before adding the next. Do not let the sauce boil.
  6. Once all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, remove the pan from the heat.
  7. Stir in the evaporated milk or heavy cream for extra creaminess.
  8. Serve immediately as your best nacho cheese dip or topping.

Notes

  • Always shred your cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent a smooth melt.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick upon standing, whisk in a splash more milk or evaporated milk over low heat until you reach your desired consistency.
  • This recipe makes a fantastic concession style nacho cheese for game day snacks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorandpin.com/quick-creamy-nacho-cheese-sauce/