Mastering melted cheese sauce is a valuable culinary talent for everything from grilled cheese sandwiches to fettuccine Alfredo at a dinner party.
Try this talent on nachos, and avoid microwave melting for a silky, lava-like feel.
You don't need a slow cooker or Circle-K's hyper-processed nacho cheese either. Boy, those days are gone. Only a pot and patience are needed.
Cheese is created from water, fat, salt, and milk protein (casein), which breaks apart and becomes liquid when it melts at 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
Emulsification of fat and protein molecules in water when the cheese melts gives it a thick, creamy texture.
To get those crave-able molecules into every inch of your melted cheese sauce, slow cooking is essential.
Just whisk frequently to prevent your delicate cheese sauce from clumping or scorching over low heat.