Imagine transforming boring, bland vegetables into a mouthwatering masterpiece with just a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes of your time. This Easy Cheddar Cheese Sauce is about to become your secret weapon in the kitchen, turning even the most vegetable-averse family members into eager eaters. Whether you're looking to jazz up steamed broccoli, roasted cauliflower, or any veggie in between, this velvety, cheesy sauce is guaranteed to elevate your side dishes from ordinary to extraordinary!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and equipment: a medium saucepan, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, and a cheese grater.
- Melt butter in the medium saucepan over medium heat, ensuring it doesn't brown or burn.
- Add all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming, creating a smooth base for the cheese sauce.
- Continue cooking and stirring the mixture for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken and becomes smooth and creamy.
- Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper, tasting and adjusting seasonings as needed.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed or roasted vegetables.
- If sauce becomes too thick, thin with a little additional milk; if too thin, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Tips
- Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest texture - pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Whisk continuously when adding milk to prevent lumps from forming in your sauce.
- Keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent separation and ensure a silky smooth consistency.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, gruyère, or a blend of cheeses.
- If your sauce becomes too thick, gradually add a little warm milk to thin it out.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor - cheese sauces can start to separate if left sitting too long.
- Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently, stirring frequently.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 206kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 48mg
