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Ultimate Cheese Sauce for Fries

A silky, rich, and ultra-glossy homemade cheddar cheese sauce served over double-fried crispy french fries. Better than any stadium or diner version.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 580
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups whole milk warmed
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 0.5 tsp salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper optional
Fries & Garnish
  • 4 large russet potatoes washed and cut into sticks
  • 1 qt vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 pinch red chili flakes garnish
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Heavy bottom saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Deep Fryer or Dutch Oven
  • Box Grater

Method
 

  1. Wash, peel, and cut potatoes into sticks. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes to remove starch.
  2. Heat oil to 325°F (160°C). Dry potatoes thoroughly and fry in batches for 4-5 minutes until soft but pale. Remove and cool.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
  4. Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  5. Lower heat and stir in salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne.
  6. Remove from heat. Add grated cheese a handful at a time, whisking until smooth and fully melted.
  7. Increase oil heat to 375°F (190°C). Fry potatoes a second time for 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp. Toss with salt.
  8. Pour hot cheese sauce over fries immediately. Top with chili flakes and parsley.

Notes

Always grate your own cheese to ensure a smooth sauce. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that cause graininess.