Description
This Taco Bell Nacho Cheese Sauce is a creamy, flavorful dip that perfectly replicates the iconic fast-food classic. Made with a blend of processed cheese, sharp cheddar, evaporated milk, and jalapeño juice, this sauce is smooth, cheesy, and carries a hint of spicy tang. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s ideal for dipping chips or drizzling over your favorite Tex-Mex dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese
- 1 cup processed cheese (like Velveeta), cubed
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
Liquids & Dairy
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Flavorings & Thickeners
- 2 tablespoons jalapeño juice (from jarred jalapeños)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Grate the sharp cheddar cheese and cube the processed cheese to ensure they melt evenly. Measure out the evaporated milk, jalapeño juice, butter, garlic powder, salt, and cornstarch to have all ingredients ready for quick assembly.
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter carefully, making sure it does not brown. This gentle heating forms the base of the sauce.
- Combine Liquids: Add the evaporated milk and jalapeño juice to the melted butter, stirring continuously until the mixture is warmed through and well combined, creating a smooth liquid base.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Gradually stir in the processed cheese cubes, allowing them to melt fully into the warm liquid. Then add the grated sharp cheddar cheese, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season and Thicken: Season the sauce with garlic powder and salt. For a thicker consistency, whisk together the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce. Cook for an additional minute while stirring until the desired thickness is reached.
- Serve Warm: Remove the sauce from heat and serve immediately while warm. It pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or as a topping for various Tex-Mex dishes. Optionally, garnish with jalapeño slices or chopped cilantro for extra flavor.
Notes
- Using processed cheese like Velveeta ensures a smooth melt and consistent texture.
- Jalapeño juice adds authentic tangy spiciness; adjust quantity to taste for heat level.
- Cornstarch is optional but recommended if you prefer a thicker sauce for dipping or drizzling.
- Serve the sauce immediately for best texture; it thickens as it cools.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently while stirring.
