Cheese sauce is a beloved classic that adds creamy, cheesy goodness to countless dishes—from pasta and vegetables to nachos and baked potatoes. But what if you want to make a delicious cheese sauce without the usual flour-based roux?
Whether you’re avoiding gluten, cutting carbs, or simply looking for a quicker method, this cheese sauce without flour recipe is a game-changer. It’s smooth, rich, and velvety, with all the cheesy flavor you crave.
Plus, it uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
In this post, I’ll walk you through a straightforward method to make a luscious cheese sauce without flour, perfect for drizzling, dipping, or mixing. This recipe is versatile, easily adaptable, and can be made in under 15 minutes.
Say goodbye to lumps and thickening frustrations—this sauce thickens naturally and tastes incredible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheese sauce without flour recipe stands out because it’s simple, quick, and foolproof. Unlike traditional cheese sauces that rely on a flour-based roux to thicken, this version uses cream cheese and evaporated milk to create a smooth and creamy texture.
This means it’s naturally gluten-free and great for those on low-carb diets.
Another reason to love it is the unbeatable flavor. The combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese results in a tangy, rich sauce that pairs beautifully with so many dishes.
Plus, it’s easy to customize—add a pinch of smoked paprika, garlic powder, or your favorite herbs to make it uniquely yours.
If you enjoy recipes like this, you might also love our Best Vegan Pepper Jack Cheese Slice Recipe for Melty Flavor or check out Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for meal ideas that go great with cheese sauces.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup evaporated milk (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheese)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Instructions
- Melt the butter: Place the medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely, swirling the pan occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add cream cheese: Once the butter is melted, add the softened cream cheese. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese melts into the butter and forms a smooth mixture.
- Pour in evaporated milk: Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer but do not boil—this helps the sauce thicken naturally.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese in small batches, whisking after each addition to melt the cheese evenly into the sauce.
- Season the sauce: Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to your taste. Keep the sauce on low heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Remove from heat and serve: Once thickened and smooth, remove the sauce from heat. It’s now ready to be poured over your favorite dishes or used as a dip.
Tips & Variations
Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for a smoother sauce, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce. You can also swap cheddar for gouda or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Want a vegan or dairy-free version? Try substituting the dairy cheeses with vegan cream cheese and shredded vegan cheddar alternatives.
For more vegan cheese inspiration, check out Can I Substitute Almonds for Cashews in Vegan Cheese?
If your sauce becomes too thick, simply whisk in a little more milk to loosen it up. To keep it from separating, avoid boiling the sauce vigorously.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (about 1/4 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 150 kcal |
Fat | 13 g |
Saturated Fat | 8 g |
Cholesterol | 40 mg |
Protein | 6 g |
Carbohydrates | 2 g |
Sodium | 220 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This cheese sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Drizzle it over steamed broccoli or cauliflower for an easy side dish.
Use it as a dip for crispy tortilla chips or soft pretzels at your next gathering.
It also makes a perfect topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or even scrambled eggs. For a comforting meal, pour it over cooked pasta and stir to coat evenly for a quick mac and cheese alternative.
For more creative ideas, try pairing it with our Black Bean Rice Burger Recipe Vegan Made Easy and Delicious or enjoy it alongside a fresh salad like in Burmese Vegetarian Salad Recipes for Fresh Healthy Meals.
Conclusion
Making a cheese sauce without flour is not only possible but also incredibly delicious and simple. This recipe uses cream cheese and evaporated milk to achieve a creamy, luscious texture that coats your favorite dishes perfectly.
It’s a fantastic alternative for anyone looking to avoid flour or gluten without sacrificing flavor or richness.
Whether you want to jazz up veggies, create a decadent dip, or add creamy goodness to your meals, this sauce is a must-try. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a convenient choice for weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
I hope this recipe inspires you to experiment with cheese sauces in new, flour-free ways. For more amazing recipes and cooking tips, explore our Vegan Dinners Recipes for Easy and Delicious Meals and keep your kitchen adventures exciting!
📖 Recipe Card: Cheese Sauce Without Flour
Description: A creamy cheese sauce made without flour, perfect for pasta or vegetables. Uses cornstarch as a thickener for a smooth texture.
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch into 1/4 cup of milk until smooth.
- In a saucepan, heat remaining milk and butter over medium heat until butter melts.
- Slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture and cook until sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted.
- Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and mustard powder; mix well.
- Serve warm over pasta, vegetables, or your favorite dish.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 12g | Fat: 16g | Carbs: 6g
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