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

Close-up of tortilla chips smothered in thick, bright orange nacho cheese sauce on a white plate.
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Make the best creamy, restaurant-style nacho cheese sauce in just 10 minutes. This easy recipe uses real cheddar to create a smooth, 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 cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeño brine (from a jar of pickled jalapeños)
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 2 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded

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.
  3. Slowly whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking, whisking often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3 to 4 minutes. Do not let it boil rapidly.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Whisk in the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and ground mustard until combined.
  5. Add the jalapeño brine and whisk well.
  6. Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese to the sauce one handful at a time, whisking constantly until each addition is fully melted and smooth before adding the next batch. This step is key for a smooth cheese dip.
  7. Once all the cheese is incorporated and the sauce is velvety, taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
  8. Serve immediately as an easy nacho topping or quick cheese dip.

Notes

  • For the creamiest texture, always shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
  • If the sauce gets too thick while sitting, whisk in a tablespoon of milk or a splash of the jalapeño brine to thin it back to your desired consistency for dipping chips.
  • This recipe makes a fantastic cheesy fries topping.

Nutrition

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