Cheddar Cheese Sauce for Fries

Place the butter in a skillet over low heat and let it melt gently, watching it closely so it stays pale and does not begin to brown.

Add the all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk over low heat until smooth and lightly bubbling without changing color.

Gradually pour the milk into the butter and flour mixture, whisking constantly over low heat until the base is smooth, even, and free of lumps.

Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and optional food coloring. Stir the base over low heat until the seasonings are evenly distributed and the color is uniform.

Add the cheddar cheese to the seasoned base and continue stirring over low heat until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Transfer the creamy sauce from the skillet to a suitable serving dish.

Serve the cheddar cheese sauce warm with fries for dipping.