Quick and Easy Nacho Cheese Recipe
User Reviews
4.8
Quick and Easy Nacho Cheese Recipe
Description
The recipe starts by tossing freshly shredded cheddar cheese with cornstarch to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth melt. Evaporated milk is gently heated to just below simmering, then combined gradually with the cheese, which melts into a velvety sauce without becoming grainy. The addition of hot sauce, salt, and cayenne pepper adds subtle spice and balances the richness of the cheese.
The resulting sauce has a creamy, smooth consistency suitable for pouring over snacks or vegetables. Serving options include using the sauce warm on tortilla chips, fries, or steamed vegetables. The recipe avoids pre-shredded cheese to prevent issues with melting smoothly due to anti-caking agents.
To keep the cheese sauce warm without thickening, it can be transferred to a crockpot on a warm setting with occasional whisking. Adjust the spice level to taste with additional cayenne or hot sauce as preferred.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cheddar cheese sharp, freshly shredded, 12 oz
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 evaporated milk 12-ounce can (1 1/2 cups
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce optional
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper plus more as needed
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cheese and cornstarch and toss to coat.
- To a medium saucepan, add evaporated milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until milk just begins to simmer.
- Remove the milk from heat and stir in the cheese, a large handful at a time, until all the cheese has been incorporated and it has completely melted into the sauce.
- Add hot sauce, salt, and cayenne, and then taste and add more if needed. Serve over nachos, fries, or steamed vegetables and enjoy!
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting results; pre-shredded cheese may contain additives that affect smoothness.
- To maintain sauce warmth and consistency, keep the cheese mixture in a crockpot on warm and whisk occasionally.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 203 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 0.25cup | |
| Calories | 203kcal | 10% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.