Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 shallot, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 -2 jalapeno, seeded and diced
  • 2 chipotle chiles, diced (canned in adobo sauce)
  • 1 1/2 cups half-and-half or 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes and softened
  • 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
  • 8 ounces smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Method

  • Place a medium pot over medium heat. Add the butter, shallots, garlic, and jalapeno.
  • Saute for 3 to 4 minutes to soften, then add the half and half and chipotle peppers.
  • Whisk in the cornstarch. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer, so the half and half can scald (not necessary with evaporated milk) then lower the temperature to medium-low.
  • Stir in the cream cheese and mustard.
  • Slowly start adding the shredded cheese.
  • Stir and add by the handful, until the sauce comes together. if you prefer your cheese sauce a little thinner, add an extra splash of half and half. Serve immediately, or keep warm in a slow cooker or fondue pot.