Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk until a thick paste forms. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns slightly golden.
1 tablespoon flour
Making Cheese Sauce
Gradually pour in the milk a little at a time, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue until all the milk is added and the mixture is smooth.
1 cup milk
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while whisking. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Turn off the heat and slowly whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's melted and the sauce is smooth.
1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
Stir in the Dijon mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the cheese sauce for a minute until all the seasonings and cheese blend together.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, Salt and pepper to taste
Serve the cheese dip warm.
Notes
How To Store Leftovers - If you have any!
Once the cheese dip has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
If you want to extend the life of your cheese sauce for another 2-3 months, keep your airtight container in the freezer. The texture may be slightly different after thawing, though.
Tips For Reheating Cheese SauceAfter reheating, consider adding more seasonings to adjust the taste to your preference as flavors change after storage.Microwave: For a quick reheating option, use a microwave. Heat the cheese sauce for 15 to 30-second intervals, stirring in between to heat the sauce evenly.Stove Top: Reheat the cheese sauce in a pan on the stovetop over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of liquid like milk, broth, or cream.Double Boiler: For gen