Cheese is the way to my heart. And then add a tiny kick of spice and melt it? I’m head over heels. This Nacho Cheese Sauce is everything you could want in a cheesy condiment, and it’s a breeze to make.
In a medium sauce pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle the cornstarch on top, and whisk to combine. Let the butter mixture cook for 30 seconds while stirring.
Slowly whisk in the milk, and continue whisking until well combined and hot.
Add the cream cheese, and stir until melted.
Add the cheddar, and stir until melted.
Take the pan off of the heat, and stir in the paprika and chili powder.
Add hot sauce, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your preferred level of spiciness, optional.
Serve while still hot.
Notes
Shredding your own cheese from a block creates a smoother texture. The pre-grated kind seems to have some anti-caking agents that gum up the nacho cheese sauce a bit.
This cheese sauce freezes well. Make ahead or freeze leftovers in meal-sized portions.
Be sure to whisk and slightly cook the cornstarch first, and then whisk in the milk so that it is combined and has a smooth texture.
Serve while still hot over nachos, on steamed veggies, with oven fries, or dip bread sticks in it.