Nacho Cheese Sauce {Slow Cooker}

Feb 10, 2023Updated Apr 11, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

Looking for a delicious nacho cheese sauce recipe for nachos, taco bars and game day? This particular cheese sauce recipe has a creamy texture, medium heat to taste, and a quick prep and cooking time. Everyone is sure to love it!

nacho cheese being pour over corn chips.

Whether you’re looking for a quick recipe for Super Bowl Sunday or to take to a potluck, this homemade nacho cheese sauce calls for just four ingredients and a 2-hour cooking time. It’s also a versatile recipe meaning you can switch up the cheese options, make it mild (or hotter), and dress it up with different toppings. Trust me when I say this is the easiest cheese sauce you’ll ever make!

Nacho Cheese Video

Ingredients for Nacho Cheese Sauce

Here is what you need to make an easy chip topper! The full recipe with ingredients is in the recipe card below the images.

Velveeta Cheese: It is best to use the large block of original Velveeta cheese because of its ability to melt perfectly and not leave lumps or chunks. I do not recommend using any other type of cheese.
Milk: Adding milk makes the cheese thinner, perfect for pouring over corn tortilla chips.
Hot Sauce: You can use any brand you like. I suggest using Tapatio, Valentino, or Cholula hot sauce because of their slight spice and delicious flavor.
Chili Powder: Made from a variety of dried chili peppers, this seasoning enhances the nacho cheese flavor without being too overpowering and give it a Mexican flavor kick.

Variations

Here are my variations to change things up:

Add a bit more hot sauce if you want a spicer dip.
You may be tempted to use fresh cheeses such as sharp cheddar instead of Velveeta. This recipe works best with Velveeta cheese if you want gooey, smooth nacho cheese sauce.
Diced jalapenos are a great addition for spice and flavor.
You can use white velveeta (I find this at Walmart).

How to make Nacho Cheese Sauce

Step One – Cut the block of Velveeta cheese into cubes and place them in the crock pot. Pour in the chili powder, and milk, and add hot sauce.

Step Two – Cover and cook HIGH for 2 hours or until completely melted. Be sure to stir occasionally so the cheese melts evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Ways to use Nacho Cheese

Here are ways to use up your nacho cheese (not just chips!)

Easily create a party platter by placing a bowl of nacho cheese in the center and pouring a bag of tortilla chips around it. Other good dipping options are pretzels, crackers, and popcorn.
Add this dip to a nacho or taco bar and serve it alongside chopped or minced jalapenos, cooked ground beef, green chiles, fresh diced tomatoes, sour cream, fresh avocado cubes, and salsa.
In addition to nachos, this cheese sauce can also be used as a topping for rice, baked potatoes, chili dogs, burrito bowls, and quesadillas.

Recipe FAQs

Do I keep the sauce in the slow cooker while serving?

Turn the setting to warm and stir occasionally if you want to keep it in the slow cooker. When it starts to get low, it is best to turn it off completely so it doesn’t burn.

How do I store the leftover cheese sauce?

Pour any remaining sauce into an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed throughout.

Is whole milk the best to use?

I recommend using whole milk; however, I’ve even used fat free milk and still had great results.

More Slow Cooker Appetizer Recipes

Slow Cooker Corn Dip has a creamy, cheesy base with a touch of spice, while Slow Cooker Salsa simmers into a bold, flavorful dip.
Slow Cooker Taco Dip is hearty and cheesy with classic Tex-Mex flavor, and Slow Cooker Queso Spinach Dip adds a rich, savory twist.
Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings turn out tender and tangy with just the right heat, and Slow Cooker Smoked Queso is loaded with bold, melty goodness.