Homemade Cheese Sauce

INGREDIENTS:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
Add the all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux (a thickening agent).
Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Cook the mixture, stirring continuously, until it starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheese to the sauce, a little at a time …