Mary Berry Cheese Sauce

This Mary Berry Cheese Sauce Recipe is a creamy and rich addition to many dishes. Perfect for drizzling over vegetables, pasta, or even baked potatoes, this sauce is a versatile classic that takes less than 20 minutes to prepare. With its smooth texture and savory flavor, it’s a delightful way to elevate your meals effortlessly.

Mary Berry Cheese Sauce Recipe

Mary Berry Cheese Sauce is a classic, creamy sauce made from a simple roux of butter and flour, combined with milk and melted cheddar cheese. Known for its rich texture and savory flavor, it’s a versatile addition to a variety of dishes, from vegetables to pasta.

Other Mary Berry Recipes

• Mary Berry Cranberry Sauce
• Mary Berry Chicken Supreme

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Use it as a topping, a dip, or even as a base for other recipes.
• Deliciously Creamy: The rich texture and flavor will impress even the pickiest eaters.
• Perfect for All: Suitable for various dietary preferences with easy ingredient adjustments.

Ingredients Needed for Mary Berry Cheese Sauce

• 50g (1.8 oz) unsalted butter
• 50g (1.8 oz) plain flour
• 600ml (20 fl oz) milk
• 100g (3.5 oz) mature cheddar cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Kitchen Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring jug
• Grater
• Wooden spoon

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Cheese Sauce

1. Melt the butter: Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.
2. Stir in the flour: Gradually add the flour, stirring continuously to form a smooth paste (roux).
3. Slowly add milk: Pour in the milk a little at a time, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Simmer and thicken: Allow the mixture to simmer gently, stirring until the sauce thickens.
5. Add cheese: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
6. Season: Finally, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.

What to Serve With Mary Berry Cheese Sauce

• Pour over steamed vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower for a creamy finish.
• Drizzle on baked potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Mix with pasta for a quick and easy mac and cheese.
• Use as a dip for breadsticks or pretzels for a fun and tasty snack.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Cheese Sauce

• Use fresh cheese: Grate the cheese yourself for the best melting consistency and flavor.
• Whisk continuously: To avoid lumps, keep the whisk moving as you add the milk.
• Adjust thickness: For a thicker sauce, reduce the milk slightly; for a thinner sauce, add a bit more.
• Season gradually: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper little by little.
• Add flavor: A pinch of mustard powder can add depth to the sauce.
• Keep warm: If the sauce cools too quickly, keep it warm on low heat until ready to serve.

What are Variations of Mary Berry Cheese Sauce

• Spicy Cheese Sauce: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Garlic Cheese Sauce: Stir in some minced garlic while melting the butter.
• Herb-Infused Sauce: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic twist.
• Blue Cheese Sauce: Replace some of the cheddar with blue cheese for a tangy flavor.

How Do I Store Mary Berry Cheese Sauce

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions for up to 1 month.
• Reheat properly: Gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally.

How Do I Reheat Mary Berry Cheese Sauce

• Stovetop: Heat over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
• Microwave: Use short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Cheese Sauce Healthier?

• Use low-fat milk: Substitute whole milk with a lower-fat option to reduce calories.
• Lighten the butter: Replace some of the butter with olive oil for a healthier fat source.
• Reduce cheese: Use less cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety to cut down on fat content.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 10g
• Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

How do I prevent my cheese sauce from becoming lumpy?

To prevent lumps in your cheese sauce, ensure that you whisk continuously while gradually adding the milk to the roux. Adding the milk slowly and whisking vigorously will help create a smooth, lump-free sauce.

Can I make Mary Berry Cheese Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring frequently to maintain its smooth texture.

What can I do if my cheese sauce is too thick?

If your cheese sauce is too thick, simply add a bit more milk, one tablespoon at a time, while stirring over low heat. This will help achieve your desired consistency without compromising the flavor.

Final Words

This Mary Berry Cheese Sauce Recipe is a delightful, versatile sauce that can complement a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making a simple family dinner or a more elaborate meal, this sauce will add a comforting, rich flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy this classic recipe and experiment with the variations to make it your own!

Other Recipes to Try

• Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni

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