Print

Copycat 10-Minute Nacho Cheese Sauce (Better Than Taco Bell)

Close-up of thick, vibrant orange nacho cheese sauce served in a small white dipping bowl.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make the best, creamiest nacho cheese dip at home in just 10 minutes. This simple recipe tastes just like the fast-food favorite and is perfect for topping nachos, fries, or game day snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps.
  4. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3 to 5 minutes. Do not let it boil rapidly.
  5. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper, if using.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses one handful at a time, stirring until each addition is completely melted and smooth before adding the next.
  7. Stir until the cheese sauce is velvety and uniform. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
  8. Serve immediately over your favorite chips, tacos, or fries.

Notes

  • Shred your own cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • For a thinner sauce, add a splash more milk while stirring off the heat.
  • This recipe makes a great cheesy fries topping.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savoryskies.com/nacho-cheese-sauce-10-minute-recipe/