Print

Quick & Creamy Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Cheese Sauce (Ready in 10 Minutes)

Close-up of thick, bright orange nacho cheese sauce with visible spice flecks in a small white ramekin.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make a smooth, velvety, restaurant-style nacho cheese sauce at home in under 10 minutes. This recipe replicates the iconic flavor of fast-food cheese dip using simple ingredients, perfect for topping fries or dipping chips.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  4. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the white vinegar or lemon juice.
  6. Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese to the sauce in small handfuls, stirring continuously until each addition is fully melted and smooth before adding more. Do not boil the sauce after adding cheese, or it may separate.
  7. Serve immediately over nachos, fries, or use as an easy snack dip.

Notes

  • Shred your own cheese from a block for the smoothest texture; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
  • For a slightly spicier, more authentic fast-food flavor, add a small pinch of green chili powder with the other spices.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick upon standing, whisk in a tablespoon of warm milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/quick-creamy-nacho-cheese-sauce/