If you are up for a cheesy indulgence, then opting for nacho cheese would be your best bet. This cheese can be used in various ways such as dip for snacks for as draper over crispy tortilla chips. Nacho cheese is known to be a top choice when it comes to being a comfort food. If you are looking forward to make this recipe at home, then this blog would be helpful for you. In this blog today, you will get to know everything about it.
What is It?
This is a melty, creamy cheese sauce which pairs perfectly with nachos. This dish is mainly associated with sport arenas and movie theatres, but its versatility spread its magic in other areas too. The best thing about this dish is it is easy to make at home.
A Brief History – Nacho Cheese
The creation of these cheeses is closely associated with the origin of nachos itself. This dish was invented in the 1940s when a Mexican chef named Ignacio ‘Nacho’ Anaya served tortilla chips topped with jalapenos and melted cheese to a group of patrons. Over the years, it evolved quite a lot as people kept experimenting with various styles of cheese to attain its creamy consistency. This is what eventually gave birth to today’s nacho.
Why Is Homemade Nacho Cheese a Better Option?
It is bought from outside and is certainly a convenient option for you. But there is a different allure to the homemade nacho cheese. The homemade version does not have any added ingredients or preservatives. This is why apart from being tasty, it is a healthy option to. It lets you customize the consistency, spice and flavour level. The velvety and rich texture of the homemade nacho cheese is incomparable.
Steps to Make Homemade Nacho Cheese
If you are looking forward to create the ultimate nacho cheese at home, then you are supposed to check out these below-described steps and tips.
Ingredients Needed – Nacho Cheese
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Whole milk
- Shredded cheddar cheese (or you can also use a blend of various cheeses)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Salt as per taste
- Hot sauce or jalapenos for an additional kick.
Cooking Instructions
Once you gather all the ingredients, then you are supposed to follow the cooking instructions to make it.
Prepare the Roux
Take a saucepan and melt butter in it over medium heat. Once the butter gets melted, take some flour in the pan and keep stirring for around 1-2 minutes till it gets a golden brown color. This is how the base of this sauce is made.
Add Milk for Nacho Cheese
Now you are supposed to add milk and whisk for some time to prevent lumps. Once the mixture simmer till it thickens slightly.
Include the Cheese
Bring the heat to low and stir in shredded cheese. Instead of adding all at once, keep adding one handful at a time. You need to keep whisking to melt all the cheese, making the sauce smooth.
Season as Per Taste in Nacho Cheese
For seasonings, you are supposed to add salt, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. If you want a spicy twist, add some hot sauce or chopped jalapenos.
Serve to the Guest
Your cheese is ready. Pour it over a plate of tortilla chips. Serve it with some side dish of your choice.
Variations to Consider
There are several variations that you can consider while making it. You have endless possibilities to opt for. Check out some below:
Make It Spicy – Nacho Cheese
If you want to make it spicy, then you can decide to add a splash of sriracha, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapenos as per your preference.
Mexican Blend
In order to ensure Mexican blend, you have the option of swapping cheddar with an effective mix of queso fresco, Monterey Jack and a sprinkle of cilantro for amazing Mexican flavours.
Vegan Alternative – Nacho Cheese
If you are a vegan, then you can proceed to make it vegan. Use plant-based milk, nutritional yeast and cashew to make it creamy and delicious.
Bacon Bliss
To ensure bacon bliss in your prepared nacho cheese, add some crispy bacon for an indulgent and smoky addition.
Beer Cheese Sauce
You have the option of replacing some portion of milk with beer to ensure malty tang and add depth to it.
How to Make Perfect Homemade Nacho Cheese?
While making it at home, there are some useful tips and tricks that you should follow to make the dish perfect.
Use the Right Cheese for Nacho Cheese
Cheddar is certainly the best choice of cheese while making it. But you can also decide to experiment with Velveeta, Pepper jack or Colby to get delicious nacho cheese.
Temperature Control
It is important for you to control the temperature while making it. Be careful not to overheat, or else the
Be Consistent
It is important to be consistent while making it. If the sauce is very thick, then you should add some milk. On the other hand, if it is too runny, then you should let the mixture simmer for some time so that it thickens.
Grate Fresh Cheese
It is important for you to use grate fresh cheese. Do not use pre-shredded cheese as it contains some anti-caking agents affecting the smoothness of the sauce.
Serve the Dish Warm – Nacho Cheese
It would be best for you to serve it fresh and warm. If this cools down, then you are required to reheat it and then serve.
Innovative Ways to Use
You can go beyond cheese and use it in other ways and means. There are so many ways to include this delicious delight in other dishes.
Loaded Fries
Spread some nacho on crispy fries, topped with scallions and bacon bits.
Cheesy Tacos
Include a dollop of nacho cheese to taco fillings to get the additional flavor.
Burgers
You also have the option of replacing cheese slices with some nacho cheese sauce for a delicious, messy burger experience.
Mac and Cheese
Nacho cheese is used as a flavorful and quick base for mac and cheese.
Vegetable Dip
You can also use vegetables to make a fun snack, along with nacho cheese.
Fun Facts about Nacho Cheese
There are several fun facts about nacho cheese that you must know.
National Nacho Day
In the United States of America, 6th November is celebrated as the National Nacho Day. This day is observed to honor the combination of delicious cheese and chips.
Nacho Cheese in Space
Nacho chips were put in the ISS (International Space Station) as an essential part of snacks for astronauts in 2017.
World’s Largest Nachos – Nacho Cheese
The world’s largest Nachos weighed over 5,000 pounds. It was the largest place for nachos and featured a massive amount of chips.
Reheating and Storing Tips
If you wish to reheat and store it, then you are supposed to follow these tips and tricks.
Refrigeration
You are supposed to keep the sauce in an airtight container. Then, you can refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating
It is never a good idea to overheat. On the other hand, while reheating, you should constantly stir it. Including some splash of milk will help to restore its creaminess.
Avoid Freezing – Nacho Cheese
You should also avoid freezing because the texture might become grainy after thawing.
Conclusion
It is a lot more than just sauce. Whether you wish to have it with chips or want to try it with some other dishes, it is there to add an additional layer of taste and comfort. Trying different kinds of nacho cheese sauce will be quite an experience for you. You always have the option to experiment while making a nacho cheese sauce at home. All you are required to do is follow the above-given tips and tricks to make the perfect dish.
Collecting the ingredients is the first step for you. Then mixing, combining, and using the proper amount of heat is essential in making it. The recipe is quite unique and delicious that you can use with various side dishes according to your preference and needs. The gooey goodness that you will have with this dish will be quit unforgettable for you.
FAQs
What is Nacho Cheese Sauce?
Ans: This is a creamy and delicious sauce which is mainly used for nachos. It is basically made with melted cheese, milk and various seasonings as per your preference.
How to Make Nacho Cheese Using Nacho Cheese Sauce Recipe?
Ans: You are required to melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and mix in some grated cheese till it becomes smooth. This is how to make it.
What Dishes Can You Use with Nacho Cheese Recipe?
Ans: Other than nachos, you can also use nacho cheese recipe with hot dogs, burgers and fries. One can also use this is a dip for pretzels or veggies.
Can You Make Nacho Cheese Sauce?
Ans: Yes, you have the option of using plant-based milk and cheese to make it vegan.
How to Store Nacho Cheese Sauce Effectively?
Ans: You are supposed to store it in some airtight container. Fridge it up for around 3-4 days.
