This low fat nacho cheese is rich, creamy, and perfectly scoopable—with a spicy kick and just 2 grams of fat per serving. Made with low-fat milk, nutritional yeast, and a touch of light cream cheese, it brings all the indulgence of traditional queso without the grease. Whether you’re pouring it over baked chips, drizzling it on steamed veggies, or using it for game-day dipping, this sauce is a delicious way to satisfy your cheesy cravings without sabotaging your goals.
About This Recipe
The texture is silky and smooth, with just enough body to cling to chips or mix into pasta. It’s cheesy, tangy, and just a little spicy, with the golden hue and melty vibe of classic nacho cheese—no artificial stuff here.
It’s ready in under 10 minutes and made in one saucepan. This recipe is fantastic for snack platters, baked potatoes, or even healthy mac and cheese.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Diet
Nutritional yeast adds a deep cheesy flavor with zero fat and a bonus dose of B vitamins. Light cream cheese and cornstarch thicken the sauce without the need for high-fat cheeses or butter. It’s a smart way to keep things creamy and satisfying while sticking to a low-fat diet.
What You’ll Need (Ingredients)
This sauce uses simple pantry ingredients and a few healthy swaps to keep it creamy without the guilt.
- Low-Fat Milk (1 1/2 cups): The base of the sauce—2% works best for balance.
- Light Cream Cheese (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps thicken without too much fat.
- Nutritional Yeast (1/4 cup): Gives that deep, cheesy umami flavor naturally.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the sauce to a scoopable texture.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds savory depth.
- Smoked Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Gives it a smoky, nacho-style flavor.
- Pickled Jalapeño Brine (2 tablespoons): Brightens and adds a classic nacho tang.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon, or to taste): Enhances the cheesy flavor.
How to Make Low Fat Nacho Cheese
- Whisk milk and cornstarch in a small saucepan until smooth.
- Heat gently over medium heat, whisking until it begins to thicken.
- Stir in cream cheese and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
- Add remaining ingredients: nutritional yeast, garlic powder, paprika, jalapeño brine, and salt.
- Simmer for 1–2 more minutes, then remove from heat.
- Serve warm or keep on low heat for dipping.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Add diced pickled jalapeños for more spice.
- Stir in a splash of hot sauce or chipotle for a smoky kick.
- Use unsweetened almond milk to make it dairy-free and vegan (swap cream cheese for plant-based version).
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk.
How to Store Leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on low, stirring often, and add a little milk if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 58 kcal
- Fat: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
Low Fat Nacho Cheese
Description
Creamy, zesty nacho cheese with just 2 grams of fat per serving—perfect for dipping or drizzling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whisk milk and cornstarch in a saucepan.
- Heat and stir until thickened.
- Add cream cheese and whisk until smooth.
- Stir in remaining ingredients.
- Simmer 1–2 minutes and serve warm.