This creamy and flavorful cheese sauce is the perfect companion for crispy fries. Rich in taste and silky in texture, it elevates simple fries into a truly indulgent snack or side dish. Ideal for sharing at casual gatherings, game nights, or as a comforting treat, this sauce is quick and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheese sauce delivers a smooth, velvety consistency with a rich cheddar flavor that pairs wonderfully with fries, nachos, or vegetables. It’s ready in minutes, uses basic ingredients, and can be customized to suit your taste with optional spices. Whether served for dipping or drizzling, it brings extra satisfaction to any snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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200 g grated cheddar cheese
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20 cl heavy cream (or thick crème fraîche)
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10 cl milk
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 tablespoon flour
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Salt and pepper to taste
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A pinch of paprika (optional, for a spicy touch)
Directions
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
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Add the flour and stir well to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, without browning.
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Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Let the mixture thicken slightly.
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Add the cream and stir until the sauce is smooth.
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Reduce heat to low and add the grated cheddar a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
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Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Stir well.
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Serve immediately with hot fries or other snacks.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Variations
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Spicy version: Add more paprika or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
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Smoky flavor: Use smoked cheddar or add a touch of smoked paprika.
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Mixed cheese: Combine cheddar with mozzarella or Gruyère for a different flavor and texture.
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Herb note: Stir in a bit of finely chopped chives or parsley at the end.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover cheese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy consistency. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other melting cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?
Add the cheese gradually over low heat and stir constantly until smooth. Avoid high heat, which can cause the cheese to separate.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can make it a few hours in advance and reheat gently before serving.
Is this sauce good for nachos as well?
Yes, this cheese sauce works beautifully as a topping or dip for nachos and other snacks.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
How can I thin the sauce if it becomes too thick?
Add a splash of milk or cream while stirring until the desired consistency is reached.
Can I use low-fat cheese or cream?
You can, but the sauce may not be as rich or creamy. Full-fat ingredients provide the best texture.
What is the best way to serve this sauce?
Serve it warm as a dip for fries, wedges, pretzels, or as a drizzle over nachos and vegetables.
Can I add garlic or onion to the sauce?
Yes, sauté a little minced garlic or onion in the butter before adding the flour for extra flavor.
How long will the sauce stay smooth after serving?
The sauce stays smooth for about 15-20 minutes when warm. If it begins to thicken, stir and add a little milk as needed.
Conclusion
This easy and delicious cheese sauce transforms ordinary fries into an irresistible treat. With its creamy texture and rich cheddar taste, it’s sure to become a favorite for dipping and drizzling at any occasion. Quick to make and simple to customize, it’s a versatile addition to your snack repertoire.
Print
Cheese Sauce for Fries
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups of sauce
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheese Sauce for Fries is rich, creamy, and packed with cheddar flavor — the perfect companion for crispy fries, nachos, or any snack. Quick and easy to make at home, this velvety cheese dip turns simple sides into irresistible treats!
Ingredients
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200 g shredded cheddar cheese
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200 ml (20 cl) heavy cream (or thick crème fraîche)
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100 ml (10 cl) milk
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 tablespoon flour
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Salt, to taste
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Pepper, to taste
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1 pinch paprika (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2️⃣ Stir in the flour to form a roux. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes without browning.
3️⃣ Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Let it thicken slightly.
4️⃣ Add the cream and stir until smooth and combined.
5️⃣ Reduce heat to low. Add the cheddar a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and silky.
6️⃣ Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
7️⃣ Serve immediately with hot fries or snacks of your choice.
Notes
Best enjoyed warm — reheat gently if needed.
✅ Use smoked cheddar or mix cheeses for variation.
✅ Delicious with fries, nachos, pretzels, or steamed veggies.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10minutes
- Category: Sauce, Dip
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American