Make this rich, smooth, pub-style beer cheese dip in just 15 minutes. It is the ultimate game day appetizer, perfect for soft pretzels, chips, and vegetables. This recipe uses sharp cheddar and lager for a creamy, non-grainy homemade cheese sauce.
Author:Claire
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:10 min
Total Time:15 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 cup lager beer (or non-alcoholic beer)
1/4 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Instructions
Shred both cheeses and set them aside. Mixing cheeses helps prevent graininess.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in the beer until the mixture is smooth. Let it simmer for about two minutes, stirring until slightly thickened.
Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheese, a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted and smooth before adding more. Do not let the mixture boil.
Stir in the milk, salt, and cayenne pepper until the dip reaches your desired creamy consistency.
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Serve immediately with soft pretzels, chips, or vegetables.
Notes
For the best flavor, use a crisp lager beer. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute the beer with an equal amount of non-alcoholic beer or chicken broth.
To keep the dip warm during a party, place the serving bowl over a small, low-heat warming plate or use a slow cooker set to the ‘Keep Warm’ setting.
If you want a variation, stir in 1/4 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon during the last step.