Cheese Sauce

This classic cheese sauce is a kitchen staple that brings rich, comforting flavor to simple dishes. Made with a roux of margarine and flour, it thickens beautifully with skim milk to create a smooth, creamy base. The addition of dry mustard adds a subtle depth and slight tang that cuts through the richness, while black pepper provides a gentle warmth. This versatile sauce is ideal for tossing with pasta, pouring over steamed broccoli, or baking into hearty casseroles. It&# 226;ÂÂs quick to prepare using pantry staples, making it a reliable choice for weeknight dinners when you need a delicious, homemade touch without the fuss.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Microwave

Cuisine: Global

Courses: Sauces & Condiments

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 18

Calories: 313.6

Dietary: Vegetarian

Description

This classic cheese sauce is a kitchen staple that brings rich, comforting flavor to simple dishes. Made with a roux of margarine and flour, it thickens beautifully with skim milk to create a smooth, creamy base. The addition of dry mustard adds a subtle depth and slight tang that cuts through the richness, while black pepper provides a gentle warmth. This versatile sauce is ideal for tossing with pasta, pouring over steamed broccoli, or baking into hearty casseroles. It&# 226;ÂÂs quick to prepare using pantry staples, making it a reliable choice for weeknight dinners when you need a delicious, homemade touch without the fuss.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon Margarine
2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Dry mustard
1/8 teaspoon Pepper
1 cup Skim milk
1 cup Shredded low-fat Cheddar cheese
(4 ounces)

Directions

1
Heat margarine in a 1-1/2-quart nonstick saucepan over low heat until melted.
2
Stir in flour, salt, dry mustard, and pepper.
3
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the margarine is fully absorbed and the mixture is smooth.
4
Remove from heat and gradually stir in the skim milk until well combined.
5
Return to heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
6
Boil and stir for 1 minute until the sauce has thickened.
7
Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
8
Serve immediately or keep warm until ready to use.
9
Microwave alternative: Melt margarine in a 4-cup measure on high for 15-20 seconds.
10
Stir in flour, salt, mustard, and pepper until absorbed.
11
Gradually stir in milk and microwave uncovered for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute, until thickened.
12
Stir in cheese until melted.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 18

Amount Per Serving
Calories 313.6kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 22.5g35%
Saturated Fat 13.5g68%
Cholesterol 58.2mg20%
Sodium 1657.7mg70%
Total Carbohydrate 9.7g4%
Dietary Fiber 0.3g2%
Sugars 3.3g
Protein 17.9g36%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: cheese sauce, cheddar, roux, macaroni, comfort food, easy dinner, vegetarian, low fat, skim milk, margarine, dry mustard, pantry staples, creamy, homemade, quick recipe, casserole topping, smooth sauce, classic, family meal, weeknight

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/cheese-sauce/