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Stirring creamy cheese fondue in a traditional pot.

What’s the Difference Between Fondue and Cheese Sauce?


  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Fondue and cheese sauce both feature melted cheese, but their textures, flavors, and uses are different. Learn how to prepare each and when to use them.


Ingredients

Scale

For Traditional Cheese Fondue:

  • 2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated
  • 2 cups Emmental cheese, grated
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon kirsch (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Bread cubes, roasted vegetables, or apples for dipping

For Classic Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

For Cheese Fondue:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the wine over medium heat. Add the garlic and lemon juice.
  2. Toss the grated cheeses with cornstarch to prevent clumping.
  3. Slowly add the cheese mixture to the warm wine, stirring constantly.
  4. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
  5. Add the kirsch (if using) and black pepper.
  6. Transfer to a fondue pot and keep warm over a low flame.
  7. Serve with bread cubes, roasted vegetables, or fruit for dipping.

For Cheese Sauce:

  1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  2. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  3. Once the mixture thickens, add shredded cheese, mustard powder, and paprika.
  4. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve immediately over pasta, nachos, or vegetables.

Notes

  • Fondue requires gentle heat to prevent separation. Stir constantly for a smooth texture.
  • Cheese sauce thickens as it cools. Add a splash of milk when reheating to maintain consistency.
  • Gruyère and Emmental are traditional for fondue, but you can experiment with other cheeses.
  • Cheddar works best for cheese sauce, but Monterey Jack or Gouda also melt well.
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 10 min
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Swiss (Fondue), American (Cheese Sauce)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Fondue, Cheese sauce, Melted cheese, Cheese dip, Cooking tips