Easy pretzel cheese dip is made with only 5 simple ingredients. This cheese sauce pairs perfectly with homemade pretzels and more!
Ingredients
1Tablespoonunsalted butter
½Tablespooncorn starch(or all-purpose flour)
1cup milk, plus more as needed
8ouncessharp cheddar cheese or Velveeta
¼teaspoonsalt
⅛teaspoonground black pepper
1-3teaspoonshot sauce (I prefer Frank's), plus more to taste
Optional: Cayenne pepper or chili powder
For serving: Soft pretzels, Tortilla chips, Vegetables
Instructions
Melt butter. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 Tablespoon butter. Sprinkle 1/2 Tablespoon flour or cornstarch over the butter, stirring constantly, and cook for 1 minute.
Add milk. Warm 1 cup milk in the microwave 15 to 20 seconds. Slowly pour the milk into the saucepan, while whisking constantly. Continue whisking until thickened (but still pourable). Watch it carefully.
Stir in cheese. Remove from heat and stir in 8 ounces cheese until smooth. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Stir in salt and pepper. Add amount of hot sauce you prefer. If the sauce gets too thick, whisk in 1 to 2 Tablespoons warmed milk. Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a little heat.
Place in a mini crockpot to keep warm and gooey. If it thickens, reheat in the microwave 15 seconds. Serve with pretzels, tortilla chips, or vegetables.
Notes
Cheese: If you are using processed American cheese (Velveeta) dice it up before adding. It will result in a creamier texture. If using shredded cheese, make sure to use freshly grated high quality cheese. Spices: If you prefer a little spice, add in extra hot sauce and 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Storage: This dip is best served the first day. You can store in a covered container up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove top until warmed. Pretzels: These are my favorite homemade pretzels and pretzel bites to serve alongside.