Ingredients
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
3/4 cup beer (lager, pilsner, or ale)
3/4 cup whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Melt the butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until fully liquefied but not browned.
Make the roux
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth and lightly golden. This removes the raw flour taste and thickens the dip.
Add liquids
Slowly whisk in the beer, followed by the milk. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3–5 minutes.
Season the base
Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low.
Melt the cheese
Add the shredded cheddar a handful at a time, stirring constantly. Let each addition fully melt before adding more. Keep heat low to prevent graininess.
Adjust consistency
If the dip is too thick, whisk in a splash of warm milk or beer until desired consistency is reached.
Serve warm
Transfer to a serving bowl or keep warm over low heat. Serve immediately with pretzels, bread cubes, chips, or vegetables.
Notes
Cooking Tips
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Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the dip grainy.
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Go low and slow: Keep heat on low when adding cheese to avoid separation.
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Choose the right beer: Mild beers keep the flavor balanced; darker beers add intensity but can turn bitter.
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Too thick? Whisk in a splash of warm milk or beer until smooth.
Variations
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Spicy Beer Cheese: Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce.
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Bacon Beer Cheese: Stir in crispy crumbled bacon just before serving.
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Pretzel Pub Style: Add 2 oz cream cheese for extra richness and a smoother texture.
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White Cheddar Version: Swap sharp cheddar for white cheddar and use a wheat beer.
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No-Alcohol Option: Replace beer with extra milk and a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar for tang.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g