Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon salted butter
- 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese (about 1 cup)
- 2 slices American cheese
Instructions
- Melt butter: In a small 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of salted butter until fully liquid.
- Add flour and salt: Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt. Whisk constantly to combine and form a roux.
- Cook roux: Continue to whisk and cook the mixture until it becomes bubbly and just lightly browned, about 30 to 60 seconds, to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add milk: Slowly whisk in 1 cup of whole milk until the mixture is completely smooth. Continue cooking over medium heat, whisking frequently, until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Add cheeses: Stir in 4 ounces of shredded Cheddar cheese and 2 slices of American cheese, whisking continuously until both cheeses have fully melted and the sauce is thick and silky smooth.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the cheese sauce immediately over your favorite dishes like fries, pretzels, or vegetables.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture; low-fat milks may result in a thinner sauce.
- For a sharper flavor, substitute some or all Cheddar with other cheese varieties like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
- This sauce will thicken as it cools; gently reheat with a splash of milk to restore consistency.
- Keep whisking while cooking to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth finish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
