Cheese Sauce for Fries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheese sauce for fries is easy to make and absolutely delicious. With just a few simple ingredients like butter, flour, milk, and cheddar cheese, you can whip up a savory sauce in less than 10 minutes. The addition of garlic and onion powder gives it a savory kick that perfectly complements the crispy fries. Plus, it's versatile—use it for nachos, burgers, or even as a dip for veggies!

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Make a Roux: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
2. Add Milk: Slowly whisk in the milk and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Serve: Pour the cheese sauce over hot, crispy fries and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Cheese Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give the cheese sauce a spicy kick.
• Cheddar and Mozzarella: For a gooey, stretchy texture, mix shredded mozzarella with cheddar cheese.
• Bacon Cheese Sauce: Stir in crumbled bacon bits to add a smoky flavor to the cheese sauce.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk (like oat or almond milk), and substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cheese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.

FAQs

How do I make the cheese sauce thicker?

If the cheese sauce is too thin, continue cooking it over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can add a little extra cheese or a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! While cheddar is the most common cheese for fries, you can use other cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor twist.

Can I make this cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it gently before serving.

Is this cheese sauce spicy?

No, this cheese sauce is mild. If you like it spicy, consider adding some hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

How long can I store leftover cheese sauce?

You can store leftover cheese sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat it properly before using it again.

Can I freeze cheese sauce?

While it is possible to freeze cheese sauce, the texture may change after thawing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh, but if you do freeze it, reheat gently and stir in a little extra milk to restore its creaminess.

Can I use low-fat milk?

Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy as with whole milk. For a richer version, try using half-and-half or heavy cream.

What can I serve with this cheese sauce?

Besides fries, this cheese sauce is perfect for nachos, steamed vegetables, burgers, or even as a dip for pretzels or breadsticks.

Can I make the cheese sauce without butter?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative such as olive oil or vegan butter.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe contains flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

Conclusion

This easy-to-make cheese sauce is a perfect addition to any fry dish. Whether you're looking for a savory snack or a topping for your favorite comfort foods, this cheese sauce has you covered. Quick, customizable, and incredibly satisfying, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves cheesy goodness.