Craving that iconic Taco Bell nacho cheese sauce but don’t want to leave your house? You’re in luck! Today, I’m sharing an easy recipe to make this creamy, cheesy delight right in your own kitchen. It’s perfect for nachos, tacos, and a host of other dishes where you crave a touch of cheesy goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
Directions:
- Start with the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. This is the base of your sauce and key to a smooth texture.
- Add Flour: Whisk in the flour and let it cook for about a minute. You’re aiming for a light golden roux, which will thicken your sauce without adding too much of its own flavor.
- Pour in Milk: Gradually add the milk, constantly whisking to prevent any lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens — this is crucial to achieving that velvety consistency.
- Cheese Time: Lower the heat to prevent the sauce from breaking, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
- Season Well: Add the chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. These spices provide a gentle heat and rich flavor that mimic the classic Taco Bell sauce.
- Finish Off: Remove the saucepan from the heat. The sauce is now ready to serve and can be enjoyed warm.
Serving Suggestions:
This nacho cheese sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- Classic Nachos: Drizzle over tortilla chips and top with jalapeños.
- Taco Topping: Spoon over your favorite tacos for extra creaminess.
- Mexican Dishes: Enhance enchiladas or burritos by serving this sauce on the side for dipping.
Prep & Cook Time:
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield:
- Servings: Approximately 2 cups of sauce
This homemade Taco Bell-style nacho cheese sauce is not only satisfying but also a fun and easy way to add a pop of flavor to your meals. Give it a try next time you’re in the mood for a little DIY kitchen adventure! Enjoy your cooking and indulge in the cheesy goodness.
PrintTaco Bell Nacho Cheese Sauce
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich and velvety Taco Bell Nacho Cheese Sauce, a homemade delight that brings the iconic fast food flavor right to your kitchen. This creamy sauce blends the sharpness of cheddar with a kick of chili and paprika, smoothed out by whole milk for a perfect dip or drizzle. Whether you’re hosting a party or just spicing up dinner, this sauce is an excellent way to add a burst of cheesy goodness to nachos, tacos, or any dish needing a touch of zest.Simple to prepare and irresistibly tasty, this nacho cheese sauce is a must-try for cheese lovers and anyone who enjoys a good, hearty dip. Its comforting texture and depth of flavor make it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire, proving that great taste doesn’t require complicated ingredients, just the right combination.
Ingredients
1 cup whole milk
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt, to taste
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat to prepare the roux.
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Add chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
Remove from heat and serve warm with nachos, tacos, or any Mexican dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes