Description
This cheese sauce for fries is ultra-creamy, smooth, and packed with real cheddar flavor! Made with simple ingredients, this easy homemade sauce comes together in just 10 minutes and is perfect for drizzling over fries, nachos, burgers, or anything that needs a cheesy upgrade. Say goodbye to store-bought sauces—this one is fresher, tastier, and totally irresistible!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole milk works best)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably sharp)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until it forms a smooth paste (roux).
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Lower the heat to low, then add the shredded cheddar cheese in small batches, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using).
- Remove from heat and serve immediately over crispy fries!
Notes
- For best results, use freshly shredded cheese—pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a small splash of warm milk and stir until desired consistency is reached.
- Keep the heat low when adding the cheese to avoid graininess.
- Want it spicier? Add a splash of hot sauce or extra cayenne!
- Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat gently on the stovetop with a little milk.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 5
- Category: Sauces & Dips
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheese sauce for fries, homemade cheese sauce, fry dip, nacho cheese sauce, creamy cheese sauce, easy cheese sauce recipe