Description
This easy 4-ingredient cheese sauce is a creamy, smooth, and flavorful addition to your meals. Made with butter, flour, milk, and sharp cheddar cheese, it comes together quickly on the stovetop and is perfect for drizzling over vegetables, pasta, or nachos.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Melt the butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and heat over medium-high heat until completely melted.
- Whisk the flour: Add 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste, ensuring no lumps form. This creates a roux, which thickens the sauce.
- Add milk and cheese: Gradually pour in 1 cup milk while stirring to combine with the roux. Then add 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir until fully incorporated.
- Whisk until smooth: Continue whisking the mixture over medium heat until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer sauce; lower-fat milk can be used but may affect creaminess.
- Grate your own cheddar cheese for better melting compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Stir continuously to prevent the sauce from sticking or burning on the bottom of the pan.
- This sauce is best served fresh but can be reheated gently with a splash of milk to restore consistency.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheese sauce, cheddar cheese sauce, quick cheese sauce, easy cheese sauce, 4 ingredient sauce
