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A close-up of vibrant golden yellow Cheese Sauce for Fries speckled with red paprika and green herbs in a white ceramic bowl.

Cheese Sauce for Fries: The Ultimate Creamy, Glossy Cheddar Dip Recipe

Master the art of a vibrant, golden-yellow Cheese Sauce for Fries. This thick, smooth, and glossy cheddar dip is speckled with paprika and herbs, perfect for drizzling over crispy, golden-brown french fries.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cheese Sauce Ingredients
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter 28g
  • 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour 16g
  • 1.5 cups Whole Milk 355ml
  • 2 cups Sharp Yellow Cheddar 226g, freshly shredded
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika 1g
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley 4g, finely minced
  • 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt 1.5g
  • 1 pinch Dry Mustard Enhances sharpness

Equipment

  • 1 Heavy-bottomed saucepan Ensures even heat and prevents scorching.
  • 1 Silicone-coated whisk Essential for a smooth, lump-free emulsion.

Instructions
 

Prepare the Roux
  1. Melt 2 tbsp (28g) butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it foams.
  2. Whisk in 2 tbsp (16g) flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until a blond roux forms. Do not brown.
Create the Sauce Base
  1. Slowly drizzle in 1.5 cups (355ml) milk while whisking constantly to ensure no lumps.
  2. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Add Cheese and Seasoning
  1. Reduce heat to low. Add 2 cups (226g) shredded cheddar in batches, whisking until glossy and smooth.
  2. Stir in salt, paprika, and minced parsley. Serve immediately over fries.

Notes

Grate your own cheese for the smoothest texture.
Keep heat low after adding cheese to prevent splitting.
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