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Copycat 10-Minute Nacho Cheese Sauce (Better Than Taco Bell)

Thick, bright orange nacho cheese sauce being poured from a glass container onto a pile of tortilla chips on a white plate.
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Make this quick, creamy, restaurant-style nacho cheese dip in just 10 minutes. This recipe uses real cheddar cheese for a smooth texture perfect for dipping chips or topping nachos.

Ingredients

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  • 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
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, packed
  • 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, packed
  • 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeño juice (from a jar)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste, called a roux. Cook the roux for one minute, stirring constantly.
  3. Slowly whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3 to 5 minutes. Do not let it boil rapidly.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper, if using.
  5. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese to the sauce in handfuls, stirring constantly until each addition is completely melted and smooth before adding the next batch. This step is key for a velvety cheese sauce.
  6. Stir in the pickled jalapeño juice for a slight tang and authentic flavor.
  7. Serve the homemade nacho cheese sauce immediately over tortilla chips, fries, or tacos.

Notes

  • For the best, smoothest texture, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick upon standing, whisk in a tablespoon of warm milk or water until you reach your desired consistency.
  • This recipe makes a great game day cheese sauce base; adjust spices to match your preference for concession style cheese.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorsensations.com/quick-10-minute-nacho-cheese-sauce/