How to Make White Cheese Sauce That Tastes Just Like a Mexican Restaurant

Looking to recreate the creamy, rich, and slightly spicy flavor of a white cheese sauce found in Mexican restaurants? Follow this simple recipe to make a delicious sauce that's sure to transport you to the heart of Mexico. Whether you're serving it with nachos, tacos, burritos, or enchiladas, this homemade version is sure to impress. Let's dive into the process and learn how to create the perfect sauce.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup milk (whole or 2%) 1-2 cups shredded cheese (preferably a mix of Monterey Jack, white cheddar, or a blend) 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a little kick) Salt and pepper to taste 1-2 tablespoons diced green chiles (optional for added flavor) Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Make a Roux: Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden. This helps to eliminate the raw flour taste. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency. Season: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder if using, and salt and pepper to taste. If you're using diced green chiles, fold them in at this point. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. You can garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips

Cheese Selection: For the best flavor, use a combination of cheeses. A mix of Monterey Jack and white cheddar provides a nice balance. Adjust Thickness: If the sauce cools and thickens too much, simply reheat it on low and add a splash of milk to loosen it up. Serving Suggestions: This sauce is perfect for nachos as a dip or drizzled over tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.

Enjoy your homemade white cheese sauce! With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a creamy, rich, and slightly spicy sauce that will rival any Mexican restaurant.

For a more authentic experience, you might want to try making Oaxaca Cheese Sauce, which is often used in traditional Mexican dishes. But for a variation that brings a Mexican twist to your cooking, this white cheese sauce is a great all-rounder.

Experiment with different cheeses and seasonings to find the perfect balance for your taste buds. Happy cooking!