Introduction

This creamy cheese sauce is the perfect companion for crispy fries, adding a rich and flavorful touch that elevates a simple snack. Made with sharp cheddar and a blend of spices, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

A round light gray bowl filled with smooth, creamy orange cheese sauce with a few black pepper specks on top sits in the center of a white flat surface. Around the bowl, there is one thick layer of golden brown French fries, some sprinkled with black pepper and seasoning, arranged loosely with some fries dipping into the cheese sauce. The white flat surface underneath has a white marbled texture and is partially covered by white parchment paper and a blue and white striped cloth on the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
½ cup whole milk (plus 2-3 tablespoons as needed)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon ground mustard
4 ounces medium cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s)

Instructions

Step 1: Add the butter to a small saucepan over medium heat and melt. Whisk in the flour to form a paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning.
Step 2: Add ½ cup of milk to the flour mixture and whisk constantly until the mixture thickens to the consistency of a gravy. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and ground mustard.
Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and add the shredded cheese one handful at a time, stirring after each addition until the sauce is smooth and the cheese is melted.
Step 4: If needed, return the pan to low heat to melt the cheese completely, but avoid cooking too long to prevent graininess. Add milk one tablespoon at a time to adjust thickness, remembering the sauce will thicken as it cools.
Step 5: Stir in the hot sauce and serve the cheese sauce warm with fries or your favorite snacks.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother sauce, shred the cheese finely and add it gradually while stirring continuously.
Swap medium cheddar for a sharper variety if you prefer a more robust cheese flavor.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky or spicier twist.
If the sauce thickens too much upon cooling, gently reheat and add a splash of milk to loosen it.

Storage

Store leftover cheese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a little milk during reheating to achieve the desired consistency if the sauce has thickened.

How to Serve

A pile of golden, crispy French fries is stacked on a white paper placed over a white and blue striped cloth on a wooden board. The fries have a slightly rough texture with some darker seasoned spots, and they are generously drizzled with a creamy, light orange cheese sauce that glistens under the light. In the background, there is a small white bowl filled with shredded bright orange cheese and a small light brown bowl containing black peppercorns, all placed on a white marbled textured surface. Fresh green chives are scattered around the scene, adding a touch of color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute medium cheddar with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for different flavors. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well for a smooth sauce.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

To avoid graininess, do not overcook the sauce once the cheese has been added. Melt the cheese slowly over low heat and stir constantly. Adding milk gradually also helps maintain a creamy texture.