Heart-Healthy Classic Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Indulge in the comforting creaminess of cheese sauce, reimagined with a heart-healthy twist! This "Heart-Healthy Classic Cheddar Cheese Sauce" combines wholesome ingredients like olive oil, low-sodium vegetable broth, and unsweetened almond milk to create a lighter yet irresistibly rich version of the classic recipe. Reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese provides bold flavor, while a hint of ground mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder elevate the taste profile. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this velvety sauce perfect for drizzling over steamed veggies, whole-grain pasta, or using as a guilt-free dip. Packed with flavor but mindful of sodium and fat, this recipe is a healthier choice for cheese lovers looking to elevate their meals!

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1 cup Low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup Unsweetened almond milk
• 1 cup Reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Ground mustard
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Onion powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
• 0.125 teaspoon Salt (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2

Stir in the all-purpose flour, whisking constantly for about 2 minutes to form a roux; the mixture should be smooth and slightly golden.

Step 3

Slowly pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.

Step 4

Add the unsweetened almond milk in a slow stream, whisking continuously to avoid any lumps.

Step 5

Allow the mixture to simmer gently over medium heat, stirring often, until the sauce begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low, then gradually stir in the grated reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese.

Step 7

Add the ground mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, freshly ground black pepper, and salt if using.

Step 8

Continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, around 3-5 minutes.

Step 9

Remove from heat and let the sauce sit for a minute to thicken slightly before serving.

Step 10

Serve warm over your favorite dishes such as steamed vegetables, whole-wheat pasta, or as a dip for a healthy snack.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(645.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	692.8

Total Fat 55.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 18.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.3g
Cholesterol 60mg	0%
Sodium 1364.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 22.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 1.2g	0%
Total Sugars 1.1g
Protein 31.5g	0%

Vitamin D 111.8IU	0%
Calcium 1245.5mg	0%
Iron 2.0mg	0%
Potassium 415.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 69.9%

Protein: 17.7%

Carbs: 12.4%