Make this quick, creamy, pub-style beer cheese dip using sharp cheddar. It is perfect for game days and pairs well with pretzels, chips, or vegetables.
Author:Julian Vaughn
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 cup lager beer (not dark)
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in the beer until the mixture is smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring until it thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until both cheeses are completely melted and the dip is smooth and velvety. Do not let it boil.
Stir in the salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
If using, stir in the crumbled bacon.
Serve warm immediately with soft pretzels, chips, or vegetable sticks.
Notes
For the creamiest texture, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties.
If the dip thickens too much while sitting, stir in a splash more beer or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Use a light-colored lager beer for the best flavor that does not overpower the cheese.