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Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers Recipe

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4 from 5 reviews

This rich and creamy cheese sauce is the perfect homemade complement for fries, onion rings, chips, chicken tenders, and more. Made with simple ingredients and ready in just 10 minutes, it offers a flavorful alternative to store-bought sauces with a smooth texture and a subtle kick from hot sauce.

Ingredients

Basic Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • ½ cup whole milk plus 2-3 tablespoons as needed

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground mustard

Cheese and Flavor

  • 4 ounces medium cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce such as Frank’s

Instructions

  1. Melt Butter and Make Roux: Add the butter to a small saucepan over medium heat and melt it completely. Whisk in the flour to form a paste (roux) and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  2. Add Milk and Thicken: Gradually whisk in ½ cup of whole milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to a gravy-like consistency. Then whisk in the garlic powder, onion powder, and ground mustard evenly into the sauce.
  3. Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pan from heat. Add the shredded cheddar cheese in small handfuls, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
  4. Adjust Consistency: If the cheese doesn’t fully melt, return the pan to low heat briefly, taking care not to overcook to avoid graininess. Add 1 tablespoon increments of milk to thin the sauce to your preferred consistency, remembering it will thicken upon cooling.
  5. Finish and Serve: Stir in the hot sauce to add a mild heat and depth of flavor, then serve the cheese sauce warm alongside your fries or favorite dipping items.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting texture; pre-shredded cheese may include anti-caking agents that affect smoothness.
  • To keep the sauce creamy, avoid overheating once the cheese is added to prevent graininess.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your taste preference or omit for a milder sauce.
  • This sauce can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.