How do you make cheese sauce with shredded cheese? Cheese sauce is a versatile and delightful addition to a variety of dishes, whether it’s poured over pasta, used as a dip for vegetables, or drizzled over baked potatoes. This creamy, savory sauce is incredibly easy to make using shredded cheese, and it can be customized to suit your taste preferences. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create a delicious cheese sauce with shredded cheese.
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of your choice)
Now, let’s dive into the process:
1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color. This step is known as “roux,” which serves as the base for the cheese sauce.
2. Gradually pour the milk into the saucepan while continuing to whisk. The mixture will thicken as the milk is added. Keep whisking to ensure a smooth consistency.
3. Add the salt and black pepper to the saucepan, and stir well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a desired consistency.
4. Reduce the heat to low, and gradually add the shredded cheese to the saucepan. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. The heat should be low to prevent the cheese from burning.
5. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
6. Once the cheese sauce is ready, you can use it immediately over your favorite pasta, vegetables, or baked potatoes. Alternatively, you can let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
And there you have it! Now you know how to make cheese sauce with shredded cheese. Enjoy your creamy, savory sauce with your favorite dishes and savor the delicious flavors it brings to the table.
