Can I make this dip without beer?

Absolutely! If you prefer a classic cheese dip (or want it kid-friendly), just replace the beer with an equal amount of whole milk. The dip will still be lush and flavorful.

What type of cheese melts best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is a must for strong flavor, but gouda, Monterey jack, or havarti melt smoothly. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible—freshly grated always yields the creamiest dip.

Is this recipe easy to double for a big party?

Yes! Simply double (or even triple) all the ingredients and use a larger saucepan. Keep the cooked dip warm on very low heat; if it thickens too much, add more milk or beer.

Why is my cheese dip grainy or separated?

This can happen if the cheese gets too hot or is added over high heat. Always melt cheese off-heat and stir constantly for a smooth, creamy result.

Creamy Beer Cheese Dip Recipe

Name: Creamy Beer Cheese Dip Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Pinch of cayenne; Pinch of kosher salt; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup beer; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded gouda cheese

Description

This Creamy Beer Cheese Dip blends sharp cheddar and gouda cheeses with a hint of Dijon mustard and beer, creating a rich, velvety dip that’s perfect for pretzels, nachos, brats, or any of your favorite snacks. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer ideal for parties, game day, or any gathering.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Base Mixture

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Pinch of cayenne
Pinch of kosher salt

Flavor & Liquid

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cup whole milk
1 cup beer

Cheeses

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded gouda cheese

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Instructions

Melt and Whisk Base: In a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and kosher salt to the pan. Whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth, cooking for about 30 seconds.
Add Mustard: Add the Dijon mustard to the pan and whisk it into the mixture until fully incorporated, enhancing the depth of flavor.
Add Milk and Beer: Slowly stream in the whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Repeat this process with the beer, whisking continually until both are smoothly integrated.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Continue stirring constantly and let it cook for about 3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and shredded gouda cheese to the sauce, stirring until both cheeses are completely melted and the dip is creamy.
Serve: Serve the beer cheese dip immediately while warm with your desired dipping items such as soft pretzels, nachos, or sausages.

Notes

You can use any beer of your choice; lagers work great, but use your favorite drinking beer.
For a beer-free dip, substitute the beer with an extra cup of milk for a classic cheese sauce.
This recipe yields about 3 cups; feel free to halve or double the ingredients as needed.
Perfect for dipping pretzels, pouring over brats, or drizzling on nachos.
Sharp cheddar or strong-flavored melting cheeses are recommended for the best flavor impact.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 693 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 984 mg
Fat: 52 g
Saturated Fat: 32 g
Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 33 g
Cholesterol: 177 mg