Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Description:
Cheese sauce can take your fries to the next level, transforming a simple snack into a decadent treat. This creamy, flavorful cheese sauce is perfect for drizzling over crispy fries, creating the ultimate comfort food experience. Made with real cheese and a few simple ingredients, this sauce is quick to prepare and can be enjoyed by everyone.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat
Instructions:
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Make a Roux: Once the butter is melted, add the flour. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and has a slightly golden color. This is your roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk: Slowly add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if using. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat. Pour the cheese sauce over freshly cooked fries and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Cheese Sauce:
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best results, grate your own cheese.
- Control the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it cook a bit longer to thicken.
- Experiment with Cheese Blends: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can mix it up with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a bit of blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 7g
This cheese sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves fries. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it the perfect accompaniment to crispy, golden fries. Whether you’re making a quick snack for yourself or serving up a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this cheese sauce is sure to be a hit.