In a medium sized saucepan, melt the butter and add the flour.
Stir to combine and cook over medium heat until the flour no longer tastes raw and the mixture starts to bubble and look foamy
Slowly pour in the milk and stir to combine. Stirring constantly, cook until the mixture forms a thickened “sauce” that when a spoon dipped in and you run your finger through it, doesn’t bleed back into the space.
Reduce the heat to low and add the grated cheese.
Keep stirring until all the cheese is melted and a smooth sauce is formed.
Remove from the heat and stir in the spices. Serve warm with chips!
Notes
Use a block of cheese and shred it yourself. You will get a smoother and creamier sauce and the natural flavors will shine.
Make sure you cook the flour and butter for at least a minute to cook out the raw flour flavor or your sauce will have a chalky taste.
Mild cheddar is the best flavor without being overly sharp and seems to be the one that will be loved by everyone
Switch up your flavors a bit by adding Rotel, pico, chopped green chiles, or diced jalapeno peppers to the cheese once it’s melted.
You can switch out the paprika for chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for even more flavor!
If the pan is too hot when adding the cheese, turn off heat and remove pan for a minute or two.
Keep it warm in a crock pot or slow cooker while you have your party!