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Beer Cheese Dip

Emma
This irresistible dip brings together sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and the malty goodness of beer for a comforting, pub-style appetizer you can whip up in minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 261 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons
  • Cheese Grater
  • Fondue Pot or Slow Cooker (optional)

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • ¼ cup salted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 12 ounces beer (lager or ale works best—avoid overly bitter or dark beers unless you want a strong beer flavor)
  • ¼ cup whole milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
  • 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 ounces grated Gruyere or Swiss cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)

Instructions
 

Sauce Preparation

  • Start by placing a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Melt ¼ cup of salted butter, then gradually whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Keep whisking constantly for about 1 minute—this step removes the raw flour taste and forms a smooth, golden roux that will help thicken your dip.
  • Once your roux is ready, slowly pour in 12 ounces of beer, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add ¼ cup of whole milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream and continue whisking until the mixture starts to thicken and bubble gently, about 5–7 minutes.
  • Once the base is thick and smooth, reduce the heat to very low. Gradually add the cheeses—8 oz of sharp cheddar and 4 oz of Gruyere or Swiss—a handful at a time. Whisk constantly after each addition until the cheese fully melts and blends into the sauce.