If you love Culver’s Cheese Sauce Recipe, you will love this homemade version. It is creamy, rich and full of cheese flavor.
This sauce makes fries, burgers and veggies taste amazing. You can make it in just a few minutes. It also stays smooth and thick.
I always make extra, because it disappears fast. This Culver’s cheese sauce recipe is a great way to bring that fast-food taste home.
Why I Love Making This Culver’s Cheese Sauce
I love making this sauce because it feels like a little treat. It reminds me of happy dinners at Culver’s.
I used to order cheese curds and fries, just for the sauce. Now I make it at home. It is cheaper and tastes even better.
I also love how easy it is to make. You only need a few ingredients. And the smell of melted cheese always makes my kitchen feel warm.
Equipment List
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Small bowl
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Culver’s Cheese Sauce
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Course: Sauce
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 190 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Culver’s Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Melt the butter
Put butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Let it melt slowly, not brown.
2. Add flour
Add flour to melted butter. Stir for 1 minute until it turns light gold.
3. Pour in milk
Slowly add milk while whisking. Keep whisking so it stays smooth.
4. Cook the sauce
Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly.
5. Add seasonings
Add mustard, garlic, onion, salt, pepper and paprika. Stir well.
6. Melt the cheddar
Turn heat to low. Add shredded cheddar in small batches.
7. Stir until smooth
Keep stirring until all cheese melts. The sauce should be creamy.
8. Add cream cheese
If you want extra creaminess, add cream cheese now. Stir until smooth.
9. Taste and adjust
Taste the sauce. Add more salt if needed. You can add a little more cheese too.
10. Serve warm
Pour sauce into a bowl. Serve while warm. It thickens when it cools.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.
- Add Velveeta for extra smooth texture.
- Mix in hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use half milk and half cream for a richer sauce.
- Add diced jalapeños for a fun twist.
- Keep the sauce warm in a double boiler.
History or Fun Fact About the Dish
Culver’s is famous for its ButterBurgers and cheese curds. Their cheese sauce is a fan favorite. It is often used for fries and cheese curds.
Many people love the sauce more than the food. The sauce is simple but very flavorful. It is a classic American comfort food. This homemade version brings that taste to your kitchen.
Pairings & Complementary Recipes
This cheese sauce goes well with:
- French fries
- Onion rings
- Tater tots
- Soft pretzels
- Burgers
- Steamed broccoli
- Nachos
- Cheese curds
Occasion or Event Ideas
This sauce is perfect for:
- Game night
- Family movie night
- Birthday parties
- Weekend cookouts
- Quick dinner nights
- Football games
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Keeps for 3–4 days.
- Reheat slowly on low heat.
- Add a splash of milk when reheating.
- Stir constantly to keep it smooth.
- Do not microwave for long. It can become grainy.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Carbs | 6 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | 360 mg |
Health Benefits
This cheese sauce is rich in protein and calcium. Cheese helps build strong bones. It also gives you energy. But it is high in fat and calories. So enjoy it in small amounts. Use it as a treat, not a daily food.
You can also make a lighter version. Use low-fat milk and less cheese. You can still enjoy the flavor without extra calories.

Culver’s Cheese Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese optional for extra creaminess
Instructions
Melt the butter
- Put butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Let it melt slowly, not brown.
Add flour
- Add flour to melted butter. Stir for 1 minute until it turns light gold.
Pour in milk
- Slowly add milk while whisking. Keep whisking so it stays smooth.
Cook the sauce
- Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly.
Add seasonings
- Add mustard, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well.
Melt the cheddar
- Turn heat to low. Add shredded cheddar in small batches.
Stir until smooth
- Keep stirring until all cheese melts. The sauce should be creamy.
Add cream cheese
- If you want extra creaminess, add cream cheese now. Stir until smooth.
Taste and adjust
- Taste the sauce. Add more salt if needed. You can add a little more cheese too.
Serve warm
- Pour sauce into a bowl. Serve while warm. It thickens when it cools.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.
- Add Velveeta for extra smooth texture.
- Mix in hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use half milk and half cream for a richer sauce.
- Add diced jalapeños for a fun twist.
- Keep the sauce warm in a double boiler.
FAQs about Culver’s Cheese Sauce
Q1: Can I make this sauce without flour?
Yes, you can. Use cornstarch instead. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with milk first. Then cook until thick.
Q2: Why is my sauce grainy?
This happens when the heat is too high. Keep heat low. Add cheese slowly and stir.
Q3: Can I freeze this cheese sauce?
Freezing is not best. The texture can change. It may become grainy after thawing.
Q4: Can I use different cheese?
Yes, you can. Use Monterey Jack or Colby. Mix cheeses for better flavor.
Q5: How do I make it thicker?
Cook longer on low heat. Add more cheese or a little flour mix.
Final Thoughts
This Culver’s cheese sauce recipe is a real crowd-pleaser. It tastes creamy and rich, just like the original. You can make it in minutes with simple ingredients.
It turns any meal into comfort food. Try it on fries, burgers or veggies. You will love the warm cheesy taste.

Zoey Lane is the voice behind ZoeyCooks.com, where she shares comforting, home-tested recipes inspired by everyday cooking. She believes great food should be simple, approachable and enjoyable to make.












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