white cheese sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best white cheese sauce recipe

I’ve been making this white cheese sauce recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic American dish that originated in the Midwest, where it was often served at family gatherings and church suppers.

The sauce is made with a combination of cheddar cheese, milk, and flour, which gives it a smooth and creamy texture. When I first started making this recipe, I was surprised by how easy it was to make and how well it turned out.

The key to making a good white cheese sauce is to use high-quality ingredients and to temper the mixture slowly, so the cheese doesn’t seize up and become grainy. Over time, I’ve tweaked the recipe to suit my family’s tastes, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra flavor and a sprinkle of paprika for color.

Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with you so you can enjoy it in your own home.

Creamy White Cheese Sauce

4.9 from 1997 votes

A rich and velvety white cheese sauce perfect for pasta, vegetables, or as a dip. This sauce is easy to make and full of flavor.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp paprika

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns light brown and has a nutty aroma.
3This is called a roux, and it will thicken your sauce.
4Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
5Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it begins to thicken and simmer gently.
6This should take about 3-5 minutes.
7You will see the sauce coating the back of a spoon when it is ready.
8Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded white cheddar cheese to the saucepan.
9Stir continuously with a wooden spoon until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
10This should take about 2-3 minutes.
11If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
12If it is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
13Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
14Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
15Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
16You want the sauce to be flavorful but not overly salty.
17Keep the sauce warm over low heat until ready to serve.

🔧Equipment

Saucepan
Whisk
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 30g💛Saturated Fat: 20g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother sauce, use a fine grater to shred the cheese. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more milk. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add more cheese.

Watch Video Of How Creamy White Cheese Sauce Works

This white cheese sauce recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too.

The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to customize to your family’s tastes – add some diced ham or cooked bacon for extra protein, or try using different types of cheese for unique flavors.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy White Cheese Sauce

1. What is white cheese sauce made of?

White cheese sauce is typically made with a combination of cheddar cheese, milk, and flour. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients like butter or spices.

2. Is white cheese sauce healthy?

While white cheese sauce is not as healthy as some other sauces, it can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Look for recipes that use low-fat milk and reduced-sodium cheese to make it healthier.

3. How do I store leftover white cheese sauce?

You can store leftover white cheese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

4. Can I make white cheese sauce without flour?

Yes, you can make white cheese sauce without flour by using cornstarch or tapioca starch as a thickening agent instead.

5. What are some popular uses for white cheese sauce?

White cheese sauce is often served over macaroni and cheese, but it can also be used as a dip for vegetables or as a topping for baked potatoes.

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