Servings
Font
Back
Quick and Easy Nacho Cheese Recipe
4.8 from 258 votes

Quick and Easy Nacho Cheese Recipe

This Quick and Easy Nacho Cheese recipe produces a smooth, creamy cheese sauce by melting sharp cheddar with evaporated milk and a little cornstarch. The sauce has a rich texture with mild heat, enhanced optionally by hot sauce and cayenne pepper, making it ideal for drizzling over nachos, fries, or vegetables for an indulgent snack or appetizer.

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Total Time
10 mins
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 203 kcal
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American, Mexican

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

    Cup of Yum
  1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cheese and cornstarch and toss to coat.
  2. To a medium saucepan, add evaporated milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until milk just begins to simmer.
  3. 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. 
  4. 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

Serving 0.25cup Calories 203kcal (10%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 8 servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 203

% Daily Value*

Serving 0.25cup
Calories 203kcal 10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.