Cheese Sauce For Fries Recipe
Rich, creamy, and irresistibly smooth, this cheese sauce is the perfect partner for crispy fries. Made with real cheese, a touch of spice, and pantry staples, it comes together in minutes and brings bold flavor to every golden bite.
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
- Grater (for shredding cheese)
- Ladle or spoon for serving
- Heat-resistant bowl (optional for serving)
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp flour
- 4 oz medium cheddar cheese freshly shredded
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp ground mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ cup whole milk
Instructions
- Add butter to a small saucepan over medium heat and let it melt.
- Whisk in flour to make a paste and cook, stirring often, for 1–2 minutes to avoid burning.
- Slowly whisk in ½ cup of milk and continue whisking until the mixture thickens to a gravy-like consistency.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder, whisking to combine.
- Take the pan off the heat and stir in shredded cheese one handful at a time, mixing well until fully melted and smooth.
- If needed, return to low heat briefly to melt any remaining cheese, but avoid prolonged heating to prevent graininess.
- Adjust the thickness by adding milk one tablespoon at a time as it will thicken while cooling.
- Finish by stirring in hot sauce.
- Once the sauce is mixed serve warm.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, use whole milk or even a splash of heavy cream.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt; pre-shredded can result in grainy sauce.
- Stirring constantly while adding milk prevents lumps and ensures a velvety texture.