Title: Ultimate Cheese Sauce for Fries – Creamy, Dreamy, and Delicious!

1. Make the Roux: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the flour mixture (roux) is smooth and lightly golden.

2. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture starts to thicken and become creamy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

3. Add the Cheese: Once the milk has thickened to your desired consistency, lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

4. Season the Sauce: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like a little tanginess, you can also stir in the Dijon mustard. For some extra heat, sprinkle in a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper.

5. Serve: Once the cheese sauce is creamy and fully combined, drizzle it generously over your crispy fries. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips:

• This cheese sauce is perfect for dipping fries, but it’s also great for nachos, tacos, veggies, or even over baked potatoes.
• If you have any leftover cheese sauce, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little extra milk if needed to smooth it out.

Variants:

• Spicy Cheese Sauce: Add some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the sauce a spicy kick.
• Bacon Cheese Sauce: Stir in some crumbled crispy bacon for a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with fries.
• Vegan Cheese Sauce: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk), and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version of this creamy sauce.

FAQ:

1. Can I use other types of cheese?

   • Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor.

2. Can I make this cheese sauce thicker or thinner?

   • Yes! If you prefer a thicker sauce, use a little less milk or cook it longer. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a bit more milk.

3. How can I make this cheese sauce spicier?

   • You can add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even a bit of hot sauce to amp up the heat in your cheese sauce.

4. Can I use this sauce for anything besides fries?

   • Absolutely! This cheese sauce works great on nachos, veggies, baked potatoes, macaroni, and even as a dip for pretzels.