Bushra Griffith
Cheddar cheese sauce is a versatile dish that can be used as a topping for broccoli, burgers, and baked potatoes, or as a dip for tortilla chips and pretzel bites. It can also be tossed with cooked macaroni or used as a pizza topping. The sauce is easy to make and can be prepared in 15 to 20 minutes. The basic ingredients include butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese, with optional additions like mustard, cayenne, and garlic. The key to achieving a smooth and creamy texture is to gradually add the milk to the melted butter and flour mixture, creating a roux, before incorporating the cheese.
How It's Made: Cheddar Cheese Sauce
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Butter, flour, salt, milk, cheddar cheese |
| Amount of Servings | 16 |
| Time to Make | 5-20 minutes |
| Calories | 95-182 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2-5 g |
| Protein | 4-8 g |
| Fat | 8-15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5-9 g |
| Trans Fat | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 24-39 mg |
| Sodium | 197-382 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1-2 g |
| Storage | Sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days |
| Reheating | Warm in a saucepan over low heat or in 30-second increments in the microwave |
| Serving Suggestions | Vegetables, pasta, rice, nachos, macaroni, baked potatoes, sandwiches, chips, crackers |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right cheese
When making cheddar cheese sauce, the cheese you choose can make a big difference in the final texture and taste of the sauce. Here are some tips to help you choose the right cheese:
Type of Cheddar Cheese
Go for a younger, milder cheddar cheese. Very sharp, aged cheddars don't melt as well and can make the sauce grainy. The best option is to buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself, as pre-shredded cheese is often coated with cellulose or starch to prevent clumping, which can hinder melting and affect the texture of your sauce. If you do use pre-shredded cheese, opt for a full-fat variety.
Taste
Choose a cheese that tastes good on its own. If you like the flavour of the cheese as it is, you're more likely to enjoy it in your sauce.
Cheese Combinations
While cheddar is a popular choice for a cheese sauce, you can also experiment with different cheeses or combinations. For a Mexican dish like nachos or enchiladas, Monterey Jack is a good option. For a smooth and creamy dip, Swiss or Gruyère melt well and create a great consistency. For a homemade macaroni and cheese, a combination of half cheddar and half parmesan works well.
Spiciness
If you want to add some spice to your sauce, try using a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack with jalapeños, chilli peppers, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Smoked cheddar is another option for adding a smoky flavour to your sauce.
Quantity
The amount of cheese you need will depend on the recipe and desired cheesiness of your sauce. A good rule of thumb is to use 1 cup (4 ounces) of shredded cheddar for a standard cheese sauce recipe. You can always add more cheese to taste or for an ultra-cheesy sauce.
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Saucepan size and heat level
When making cheddar cheese sauce, it is important to use a saucepan that is the right size and to control the heat level to ensure that the sauce is smooth and does not burn.
Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. The size of the saucepan should be large enough to allow the butter to melt and form a paste with the flour without overflowing. A medium-sized saucepan is generally suitable for this purpose. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and salt until a paste forms. This paste is called a roux and is used to thicken the sauce.
After the roux is formed, slowly add the milk to the saucepan. Continue to cook and stir the mixture until it is fully incorporated and has thickened. The amount of milk added will depend on the desired consistency of the sauce. If a thinner sauce is preferred, more milk can be added. It is important to adjust the heat so that the milk does not boil, as this can cause it to curdle and affect the texture of the sauce.
Once the milk has thickened, turn off the heat and add the cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. It is important to keep the heat low at this stage, as high heat can cause the cheese to become grainy. Pre-shredded cheese should be avoided, as it is coated with cellulose and anti-caking agents, which can inhibit melting and affect the texture of the sauce. Instead, use freshly grated, full-fat cheese for the best results.
Overall, the size of the saucepan and the heat level are important factors in making cheddar cheese sauce. A medium-sized saucepan and medium to low heat are generally suitable, but adjustments may be needed depending on the desired consistency and the type of ingredients used.
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Adding milk
The amount of milk added can be adjusted to achieve the desired consistency. For a thinner sauce, more milk can be added, and for a thicker sauce, less milk can be used. It is important to note that the milk should be added slowly and gradually, as this helps to ensure that it is fully incorporated into the sauce without overheating.
Additionally, the type of milk used can also be adjusted based on preference. Whole milk is commonly used in cheese sauce recipes, but alternative options such as low-fat milk or plant-based milk can also be used. However, it is worth mentioning that using a different type of milk may alter the flavour and consistency of the final product.
The milk is an essential component of the cheese sauce, providing a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that complements the sharpness of the cheddar cheese. It is important to carefully monitor the heat and avoid boiling the milk to ensure a smooth and well-blended sauce.
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Seasoning
Firstly, salt and pepper are the most commonly used seasonings. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste preferences. You can also add dry mustard to enhance the flavour. These seasonings create a universal flavour profile that can be built upon.
Additionally, the type of cheese you use will impact the seasoning. Cheddar cheese is available in various sharpness levels and ages, each contributing a distinct flavour. Younger cheddars generally melt better than sharper, aged varieties. For a smokier flavour, consider using smoked cheddar. Alternatively, you can use a combination of cheeses, such as mixing cheddar with Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or Swiss and Gruyère cheeses, to create a unique flavour profile.
Furthermore, you can add spices to your cheddar cheese sauce for extra depth of flavour. Spices like paprika, basil, oregano, garlic, and cayenne pepper can enhance the sauce and make it spicier. You can also include additional ingredients such as drained diced pimentos for colour and flavour or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Remember, the key to successful seasoning is to taste as you go and adjust the amounts according to your preference. It is easy to add more seasoning, but it is challenging to reverse the process if you have added too much.
Finally, when serving your cheddar cheese sauce, consider the dish it will be paired with. For example, if you plan to serve it with Mexican dishes like nachos or enchiladas, you might want to use a Mexican blend of cheeses and chile peppers to enhance the flavour profile.
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Serving suggestions
Homemade cheddar cheese sauce is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
Veggies
Cheddar cheese sauce can be served with a variety of vegetables, such as steamed broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, or carrots. It can also be used as a dip for vegetables, such as carrot or celery sticks. For a healthier option, opt for steamed or raw vegetables.
Nachos
The sauce can be drizzled over homemade nachos, adding a creamy and cheesy flavour. For an extra kick, add some jalapeños or chilli peppers. You can also use a Mexican blend of cheeses and chile peppers for a Tex-Mex style dish.
Pasta
Cheddar cheese sauce is a perfect match for pasta. It can be mixed with cooked macaroni to make a classic mac and cheese, or stirred into other types of pasta for a creamy and cheesy dish. You can also add some spices like paprika, basil, oregano, or garlic to give it an extra kick.
Sandwiches and Dips
The sauce can be used as a spread or dip for sandwiches, such as roast beef sandwiches or grilled cheese sandwiches. It can also be served as a dip with chips, pretzel bites, or crackers on the side. For a more indulgent option, try using it as a dip for French fries.
Potatoes
Cheddar cheese sauce is a great topping for baked potatoes, boiled potatoes, or potato skins. It adds a creamy and cheesy flavour that pairs well with the starchiness of the potatoes. You can also add some chopped green onions or bacon bits for an extra flavour boost.
Meat
While cheddar cheese sauce is often paired with vegetables or carbs, it can also be served with meat. It can be used as a topping for steak, mixed with ground beef for a cheesy taco soup, or added to a chicken Italian bake. It can also be drizzled over roast beef or grilled meats for a creamy and cheesy twist.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need butter, flour, milk, and cheddar cheese.
It takes 15-20 minutes to make a cheddar cheese sauce.
Store leftover cheese sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
