Make a quick, smooth, and crowd-pleasing beer cheese dip on the stovetop in under 15 minutes, perfect for serving with soft pretzels.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:10 min
Total Time:15 min
Yield:About 2 cups
Category:Appetizer
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk (whole milk works best)
1/2 cup beer (a medium-bodied lager or pale ale)
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Salt to taste
Instructions
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste (roux). Cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
Slowly whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Reduce the heat to low. Gradually pour in the beer while whisking constantly. Do not let the mixture boil.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted and smooth before adding more.
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Taste the dip and add salt if needed. Serve immediately while warm with pretzels or chips.
Notes
Shred your own cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Use a beer you enjoy drinking, as the flavor will concentrate in the dip.
If the dip thickens too much upon standing, stir in a splash of warm milk or beer to reach your desired consistency.