Cheese Curds' Perfect Sauce Partners At Culver's

Wisconsin is known for its cheese, so it's no surprise that Culver's, a fast-food chain with roots in Wisconsin, offers cheese curds and a variety of sauces to go with them. While some customers are content to enjoy their cheese curds as they are, others like to experiment with different sauces. In the past, Culver's offered one free sauce with an order of cheese curds, but now they charge extra for sauces like ranch, BBQ, and honey mustard. However, ketchup, mustard, mayo, and certain other sauces that come in packets are still complimentary. In addition to these classic sauces, Culver's has introduced several new options, including their own Culver's Signature Sauce, a blend of buttermilk, Parmesan, and blue cheese.

Culver's Signature Sauce

For almost 40 years, Culver's has offered a decent selection of dipping sauces, including barbecue, honey mustard, and ranch. However, in 2024, the fast-food chain introduced its first-ever signature sauce, billed as the perfect complement to its menu.

Ingredients and Taste

The signature sauce is a creamy and tangy blend with notes of buttermilk, Parmesan, and bleu cheese. This combination sets it apart from standard dipping sauces like mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, or barbecue sauce.

Pairings

The sauce is designed to be versatile, pairing well with a variety of menu items. It can be used as a dip for cheese curds, fries, or chicken tenders, or even as a topping for a ButterBurger.

Customer Reaction

Reactions to the new sauce have been positive, with one customer praising its flavour and another noting that it pairs well with the chain's cheese curds.

Availability

The Culver's Signature Sauce is available at over 900 locations nationwide, allowing customers across the country to enjoy this unique offering.

Other Sauce Options

In addition to the signature sauce, Culver's offers a range of other sauces, including Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce, a blend of real Wisconsin sharp cheddar and fresh dairy, perfect for dipping cheese curds. For those who enjoy a kick of spice, there's the Frank's RedHot Buffalo Sauce, or for something more exotic, try the Ken's Boom Boom Sauce, a creamy, spicy blend with chili peppers, Dijon mustard, and garlic.

Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Wisconsin is known for its cheese, and Culver's signature Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce is no exception. This creamy blend of sharp cheddar and fresh dairy is the perfect dip for their famous cheese curds, as well as many other menu items.

The Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce is a golden, mouthwatering delight for all lovers of cheddar. It's not your typical dipping cheese—it's the real deal. Made with real melted Wisconsin sharp cheddar, it's served warm to bring out its full flavour. This cheese sauce is a versatile addition to any meal, adding a touch of Midwestern flavour to your favourite snacks.

The warm, buttery Wisconsin Cheese Curds are the perfect match for this cheese sauce. The combination of the crispy exterior and the creamy, melted cheese interior of the curds is elevated by the rich and savoury cheese sauce. The sauce also pairs well with other menu items like the golden-brown Chili Cheddar Fries and pillowy Pretzel Bites, taking these dishes to the next level.

For those who can't get enough of cheese, Culver's Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce is a must-try. It's a flavourful and indulgent experience, bringing the taste of Wisconsin right to your table. Whether you're a cheese connoisseur or just looking for a delicious dip, this signature sauce is sure to satisfy your cravings. So, get ready to dip, dunk, or drizzle this oh-so-dippable sauce and take your taste buds on a trip to the Midwest!

Marinara Sauce

Firstly, flavour is essential. The ideal marinara sauce should complement the creaminess of the cheese curds with a robust and well-balanced taste. A harmonious blend of tangy tomatoes, sweet onions, and a careful balance of herbs and spices creates a flavour profile that enhances the cheese curds. The sauce should have depth and complexity, with a hint of acidity to cut through the richness of the cheese, leaving a burst of tantalizing flavours on the palate.

Secondly, texture plays a vital role. The marinara sauce should be thick enough to coat the cheese curds without being too thin or watery, which can result in a lacklustre dipping experience. At the same time, a sauce that is too thick or chunky can overpower the delicate texture of the curds. The ideal sauce will strike a balance, allowing the cheese curds to shine through while still providing a smooth and velvety texture that enhances the overall enjoyment of each bite.

Additionally, the right marinara sauce will feature complementary ingredients that harmonize perfectly with the cheese curds. While tomatoes are the star ingredient, onions and garlic provide depth and aromatic notes, and herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley add freshness and complexity. A touch of sweetness, such as a hint of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar, can round out the flavours beautifully.

When choosing a marinara sauce, you have the option of store-bought or homemade. High-quality store-bought marinara sauces offer convenience without compromising taste. These sauces are carefully crafted by renowned brands to provide a quick and hassle-free way to elevate your culinary creations. Look for options with a robust flavour profile that enhances the richness of the cheese curds, adding depth and complexity to each bite.

However, if you prefer a more personalized touch, creating your own homemade marinara sauce is a rewarding culinary adventure. By following a simple recipe and using fresh, high-quality ingredients, you can craft a sauce that surpasses store-bought alternatives. The satisfaction and control gained from making your own sauce are unparalleled, as you can customize it to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Whether you choose a classic marinara sauce, a bold and spicy variation, or an herb-infused option, the right marinara sauce will transform your cheese curd dipping experience into something truly exceptional. So, the next time you're enjoying some cheese curds, be sure to give marinara sauce a try!

BBQ Sauce

Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce is a well-known brand that offers a classic barbecue flavour. It is often described as having a sweet and smoky taste with a hint of spice, which can complement the salty, buttery flavour of the cheese curds. The tanginess of the BBQ sauce can also help to cut through the richness of the fried cheese, creating a balanced and satisfying bite.

When choosing BBQ sauce as your dip, consider the level of spice you prefer. Some BBQ sauces offer a milder flavour, while others may have a kick of heat from ingredients like chilli peppers or black pepper. If you're looking for a spicier option, you might want to try a different variety of sauce or even add your own spices to the BBQ sauce to customise it to your taste.

In addition to its flavour, BBQ sauce can also add moisture to the cheese curds, especially if they are served warm or straight out of the fryer. This can enhance the overall texture and mouthfeel of the dish, making it a more indulgent and enjoyable snack.

For those who are adventurous, you might even want to experiment with different types of BBQ sauce, as there are various regional varieties available. For example, you could explore options like Carolina-style BBQ sauce, which is typically vinegar-based and tangy, or Kansas City-style BBQ sauce, which is often thicker and sweeter.

Ranch Sauce

While ranch sauce is a popular choice for cheese curds, some people may prefer other sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ, or even cheese sauce. However, the versatility of ranch sauce means it can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences, making it a widely enjoyed option.

At Culver's, ranch sauce is one of the sauces available for an extra charge. While some customers may be disappointed by the additional cost, others understand the decision, acknowledging the slim margins on sauces and the need to cover costs. Ultimately, the availability of ranch sauce as an option allows customers to enjoy their cheese curds with their preferred condiment, even if it comes at a small extra cost.

Frequently asked questions