Creamy gluten-free nacho cheese sauce made with real cheddar, milk, and pickled jalapeños. Perfect for nachos, tacos, baked potatoes, and party appetizers. Easy to make and ready in minutes.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons gluten-free flour (or all-purpose flour if not GF)
1 cup milk (2% fat or higher recommended)
6 oz freshly grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese
1–2 tablespoons chicken broth
1–2 tablespoons liquid from a jar of pickled jalapeños
Minced pickled jalapeños (optional)
Tortilla chips, for serving

Directions

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to form a smooth sauce. Stir in 1 tablespoon chicken broth, then cook for 3–4 minutes with a spatula, stirring constantly, until thickened. The mixture should briefly reveal the bottom of the pan when scraped.
Turn off the heat and add half of the shredded cheddar, stirring until smooth. Add the remaining cheese and continue stirring until fully melted and creamy. Add extra chicken broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Stir in the pickled jalapeño liquid and minced jalapeños, if using. Serve warm with tortilla chips.

Tips

Use freshly grated cheddar for a smoother, creamier sauce—pre-shredded cheese may result in clumping.
Whisk constantly when adding milk to avoid lumps.
Adjust thickness by adding more chicken broth for a thinner sauce or cooking slightly longer for a thicker consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese options: Try pepper jack or Colby for a different flavor profile.
Dairy alternatives: Use lactose-free or plant-based milk and cheese for a dairy-free version.
Spice level: Increase pickled jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

FAQs

Can this sauce be made ahead of time?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring to maintain smoothness.

Is this sauce truly gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free flour and check that your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use this sauce for other dishes?
Absolutely—pour over nachos, steamed vegetables, baked potatoes, or tacos.

Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately with tortilla chips for classic nachos.
Drizzle over roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, or soft pretzels.
Use as a topping for tacos, burgers, or quesadillas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This gluten-free nacho cheese sauce is creamy, rich, and full of flavor without any processed cheese like Velveeta. It’s easy to make, customizable in spice level, and perfect for game days, parties, or quick snack nights.