Side Nacho Cheese Recipe

Make the roux

In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. When the butter is foaming but not browning (about 1 minute), add the all-purpose flour. Whisk constantly for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes to cook the raw flour taste and form a blond roux; it should be slightly bubbly but not darken.

Add milk mixture

Gradually pour in the whole milk and half-and-half in a slow, steady stream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3–4 minutes.

Incorporate cheeses

Lower the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese first until fully melted and incorporated. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the grated sharp cheddar and monterey jack in small handfuls, stirring after each addition until the sauce is smooth and glossy. Keeping the pan off direct heat helps prevent the cheeses separating.

Season and finish

Return the pan to the lowest heat setting and stir in the drained diced green chiles (if using), ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, hot sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Heat just until everything is warmed through, about 1 minute—do not let it boil. Stir in the fresh lime juice to brighten the flavor. Taste and adjust salt, hot sauce, or lime as desired.

Adjust consistency

If the sauce is too thick, whisk in up to 2 tablespoons of additional milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach desired pourable but creamy consistency suitable for dipping chips. If too thin, cook gently a bit longer while stirring to reduce and thicken.

Serve

Transfer the nacho cheese to a warmed serving bowl. Keep warm over a double boiler or on the lowest setting of a small slow cooker if serving buffet-style to prevent skinning or separation. Stir occasionally.

Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro and a few small dice of jalapeño over the cheese for color and a fresh bite. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, pretzel bites, or fresh vegetables.