Queso Sauce

Creamy, smooth queso sauce made with cheddar, milk, and a few pantry staples. Perfect for nachos, fries, tacos, burgers, and dipping.

This homemade queso sauce is rich, silky, and easy to make in just a few minutes. It is ideal for serving over nachos, alongside tacos, with fries, or as a warm dip for bread and vegetables. The texture stays smooth and pourable, while the flavor is bold, savory, and lightly spiced.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup evaporated milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper, optional
• 2 tablespoons diced pickled jalapenos, optional

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux.
3. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps.
4. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture begins to thicken.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted before adding more.
6. Stir in the evaporated milk or heavy cream to make the sauce extra smooth and glossy.
7. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne if using.
8. Mix in the pickled jalapenos if desired, then taste and adjust seasoning.
9. Serve warm right away as a dip or pour over your favorite dishes.