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Taco Bell Nacho Cheese Sauce Recipe

Taco Bell Nacho Cheese Sauce Recipe


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4.6 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Taco Bell’s legendary nacho cheese sauce brings restaurant-style flavor straight to home kitchens. Creamy, zesty ingredients blend seamlessly to recreate this iconic condiment you’ll drizzle over nachos, fries, and countless Mexican-inspired dishes with delicious authenticity.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup whole milk

Sauce Base:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Seasonings:

  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Craft a velvety base by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, maintaining a gentle sizzle for about 60 seconds.
  2. Sprinkle flour into the melted butter, whisking vigorously to eliminate any raw flour essence and create a smooth, golden roux.
  3. Stream milk into the roux while continuously whisking, preventing potential lumps from forming and allowing the mixture to thicken for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat to low, introducing shredded cheddar cheese and stirring until it transforms into a luxurious, silky sauce.
  5. Enhance the flavor profile by incorporating chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt, ensuring even distribution throughout the creamy mixture.
  6. Once the sauce reaches a luscious, uniform consistency, remove from heat and serve immediately.
  7. Drizzle over nachos, tacos, or any culinary creation craving a decadent cheese experience.

Notes

  • Constantly stirring prevents burning and ensures a smooth, lump-free base for your cheese sauce.
  • Use low heat and stir gently to create a silky, creamy texture without separating the cheese.
  • Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing chili powder and garlic powder to suit personal taste preferences.
  • Swap regular milk with almond or oat milk for a lactose-free version, and use gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly alternative.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 340 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 460 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg