Get ready to enjoy the iconic taste of Taco Bell’s Nacho Cheese Sauce right in your own kitchen. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating a creamy, flavorful cheese sauce that pairs perfectly with nachos, tacos, or any dish in need of a cheesy kick.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own Nacho Cheese Sauce allows you to customize the flavor and quality of the ingredients. Say goodbye to store-bought cheese sauces with unknown additives and preservatives. With simple pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious cheese sauce that rivals the Taco Bell classic.
How to Make Taco Bell’s Nacho Cheese Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
Directions:
Roux Preparation:
- Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Create the Roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden.
Adding the Milk:
- Pour in the Milk: Slowly add the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Thicken the Mixture: Cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, around 2-3 minutes.
Cheese Melting:
- Lower the Heat: Reduce heat to low.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Seasoning the Sauce:
- Incorporate the Spices: Add the chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Warm: Remove from heat and serve immediately with nachos, tacos, fries, or as a dip for vegetables.
- Store Leftovers: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
How to Serve Taco Bell’s Nacho Cheese Sauce
Enjoy this delicious cheese sauce warm over nachos, tacos, fries, or as a dip for vegetables. The creamy texture and savory flavor will elevate any dish.
How to Store Taco Bell’s Nacho Cheese Sauce
To store leftover Nacho Cheese Sauce, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when ready to enjoy again. Consider adding a splash of milk during reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Tips to Make Taco Bell’s Nacho Cheese Sauce
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting and texture.
- Whisk Constantly: Whisk constantly when adding milk to prevent lumps in the sauce.
- Adjust Spiciness: Adjust the chili powder and paprika to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
Variation
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.
Taco Bell’s Nacho Cheese Sauce
Description
Make your own creamy and flavorful nacho cheese sauce at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for nachos, tacos, fries, or as a dip!Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Instructions
How to Make Taco Bell's Nacho Cheese Sauce
-
Roux Preparation
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. 2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
-
Adding the Milk
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. 2. Cook and whisk until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
-
Cheese Melting
Reduce the heat to low. 2. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
-
Seasoning the Sauce
Add chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. 2. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
-
Serving Suggestions
Remove from heat and serve warm with nachos, tacos, or fries. 2. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 200kcal
- Calories from Fat 120kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13g20%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Cholesterol 40mg14%
- Sodium 300mg13%
- Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 10g20%
- Vitamin A 500 IU
- Calcium 300 mg
- Iron 1 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
