Introduction

Transform your fries with the Ultimate Cheese Sauce for Fries—rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible for cheese lovers! This versatile sauce also elevates nachos, burgers, and vegetables, making every bite a cheesy, savory delight.

A white bowl filled with golden crispy fries as the base layer, topped with a thick, creamy, light beige cheese sauce that covers most of the fries. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled on top, adding a touch of color contrast. The sauce looks rich and smooth, fully coating the fries underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk
1 cup cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste
Optional spices: garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden, creating a roux that will thicken your sauce.

Step 2: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble gently.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Add salt, pepper, and any optional spices to taste. Mix well and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce, as it melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
Keep the heat on medium to prevent the sauce from scorching while cooking.
Experiment with different cheeses to create unique flavor profiles.

Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy version.
Incorporate fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an herbed cheese sauce.
Try a vegan version using plant-based cheese and almond milk.

Add smoked paprika for a smoky twist or substitute some milk with beer for an adult flavor.

Storage

Store leftover cheese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing. Cheese sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months, though texture may change; reheat gently and whisk in milk to restore creaminess. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a dish with a base layer of golden-brown fries visible at the bottom of a white plate, topped with a thick, creamy, light orange cheese sauce that covers most of the fries. The sauce has a smooth texture with small bits mixed in, and the whole dish is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and black pepper, giving it a fresh contrast. The white marbled background adds a clean, bright look to the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste.

Is this cheese sauce gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour alternative.

Can I make this cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving to maintain smoothness.

What can I serve with this cheese sauce?

This sauce is perfect for fries but also pairs wonderfully with nachos, burgers, baked potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

How long does homemade cheese sauce last?

Homemade cheese sauce can be kept for about 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.