Forktionary

Basic Cheese Sauce Recipe

Elevate your veggies with this quick and easy cheese sauce! Perfect for broccoli, cauliflower, or even pasta, this creamy dreamy sauce is ready in minutes. Simple ingredients create a rich and satisfying flavor that the whole family will love.

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Calories 645 kcal
Protein 47g
Rating 4.2 (14 Reviews)
Basic Cheese Sauce

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Basic Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt
  • Cayenne Pepper
  • Dry Mustard
  • 2 cups milk
  • Cheddar Cheese

How to Make Basic Cheese Sauce

  1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until smooth and no lumps remain (this is your roux).
  3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency (about 3-5 minutes).
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese!), stirring until completely melted and smooth.
  5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately over your favorite vegetables or pasta.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

52 g

Sugar

1g

Fat

160g

Carbs

8g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation Sauces Condiments Etc Eggs Dairy Easy Cheese Dietary Savory Sauces 3 Steps Or Less