1. Prepare the Roux
- Melt the Butter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the Flour:
- Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This is your roux and will help thicken the sauce.
2. Add the Milk
- Gradually Add Milk:
- Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk. This helps prevent lumps from forming.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Continue to cook the mixture, whisking constantly, until it thickens and starts to bubble. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the Cheese and Seasonings
- Add the Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheese, one handful at a time, whisking until melted and smooth after each addition.
- Add Seasonings:
- Whisk in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Cheese Sauce:
- Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
- Drizzle over Fries:
- Drizzle the warm cheese sauce over a plate of crispy fries or serve it as a dipping sauce.
- Optional Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, or jalapeño slices for an extra kick.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Sauce
- Smooth Sauce: Ensure the roux is smooth before adding the milk to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Freshly Shredded Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded, as it melts better and has fewer additives.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Cheese Sauce: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked cheddar or add a few drops of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
- Herb Infused: Stir in chopped fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme for a fresh twist.
Conclusion
This Cheese Sauce for Fries is a creamy, flavorful addition to any plate of crispy fries. It’s quick and easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste.
Key Takeaway
The secret to a perfect Cheese Sauce for Fries lies in creating a smooth roux and using freshly shredded cheese. By following this guide, you’ll create a delicious and versatile cheese sauce every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your Cheese Sauce for Fries!