Cheese Sauce for Pretzels
Velvety Cheese Sauce for Pretzels made with sharp cheddar, butter, milk, and a touch of mustard. A quick and versatile dip perfect for pretzels, nachos, or veggies.
10 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk plus more as needed
- 1 teaspoon spicy brown mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
Prepare the Roux:
- In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter has fully melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously to create a smooth paste. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, ensuring the mixture develops a light, nutty aroma.
Incorporate the Milk and Seasonings:
- Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking consistently to avoid lumps. Add the spicy brown mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Stir well to combine. Cook the mixture over medium heat for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, or until it begins to bubble and thicken.
Melt the Cheese:
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, adding a handful at a time and ensuring each addition melts fully before adding the next. This gradual process ensures a smooth and velvety texture.
Adjust Consistency if Necessary:
- If the cheese sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk and stir until the desired consistency is achieved.
Serve Warm:
- Transfer the cheese sauce to a serving bowl and serve immediately with pretzels, chips, or your choice of dipping items.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Additionally, verify that the Worcestershire sauce is certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.