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

A close-up of thick, vibrant orange nacho cheese sauce swirled in a small white dipping bowl.
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Make the best homemade nacho cheese sauce in just 10 minutes. This recipe delivers a smooth, velvety texture perfect for dipping chips, topping nachos, or making cheesy fries. It rivals the flavor of fast-food versions using real cheddar.

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
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, packed
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, packed
  • 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeño brine (optional, for tang)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. 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. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper, if using. Mix well to combine the seasonings.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses one handful at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is fully melted and smooth before adding the next.
  6. Stir in the jalapeño brine, if using, for extra flavor.
  7. Serve the creamy cheese sauce immediately over your favorite chips, fries, or tacos.

Notes

  • For the smoothest texture, shred your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded varieties, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
  • If the sauce thickens too much while sitting, whisk in a tablespoon of milk or water until you reach your desired consistency.
  • This recipe makes a great concession style cheese sauce for game day spreads.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mayaplate.com/easy-10-minute-nacho-cheese-sauce-recipe/