Creamy Cheese Sauce
A rich and creamy cheese sauce with a hint of mustard, perfect for drizzling over vegetables or pasta for a comforting, cheesy flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Add flour, salt, and dry mustard; stir until smooth.
- Gradually add Carnation evaporated milk, stirring constantly.
- Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring, until the sauce just comes to a boil. Remove from heat.
- Add grated American cheese; stir until melted.
- Serve hot over your favorite vegetable.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a healthier option, swap out the process American cheese for a sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses. To thicken the sauce, simply add a bit more flour or let it simmer longer. This creamy cheese sauce is versatile and pairs beautifully with steamed broccoli or cauliflower.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy cheese sauce hot over steamed vegetables, baked potatoes, or even as a dip for pretzels. It also complements dishes like the 30 Minute Beef Stroganoff or can be drizzled over nachos for a tasty twist. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Cheese Sauce contains roughly 747 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2415mg per serving (105% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce in advance. Simply follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, reheat gently, adding a little milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Just be sure to adjust the quantities accordingly, as gluten-free flours can vary in absorption.
What can I use if I don't have evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk on hand, you can use whole milk or a combination of milk and cream for a similar creaminess. Alternatively, you can make your own evaporated milk by simmering regular milk to reduce the volume.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).