Looking for the perfect dip for your next party or game day gathering? Look no further! This Homemade Beer Cheese recipe combines the rich flavors of cheese with the bold taste of beer for a creamy, savory dip that’s sure to be a hit. Whether you’re serving it with pretzels, crackers, or fresh vegetables, this easy-to-make beer cheese is a crowd-pleaser. Here’s how to make it!

Enjoy this Homemade Beer Cheese as the ultimate savory dip for your next gathering or as a delicious addition to your favorite snacks. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion!

Why Marci Loves This Recipe:

• Quick & Easy To Make
• Simple Ingredients: Probably already have all the ingredients on hand
• Great for unexpected guests
• Versatile: great with pretzels, meats & veggies
• Comfort food

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? 

Yes, you can substitute sharp cheddar with other cheeses like Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack. For a different flavor, try a combination of cheeses.

Q: What type of beer works best? 

A pale ale or lager is ideal for a balanced flavor, but you can use any beer you like. Darker beers or stouts will add a more intense flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? 

Yes, you can prepare the beer cheese in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently before serving.

Q: Is there a non-alcoholic option? 

You can use a non-alcoholic beer or replace the beer with chicken or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version of this recipe.

Variations

• Spicy Beer Cheese: Add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
• Bacon Beer Cheese: Stir in crispy bacon bits for an extra savory touch.
• Herbed Beer Cheese: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor twist.

Ingredients Needed For Beer Cheese

• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all purpose flour
• ¾ c milk (whole or 2% works as well as half and half)
• ⅔ c light beer (I used miller lite)
• 10 oz cheddar, freshly shredded
• 1 tbsp garlic salt
• 1 tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

How to Make Homemade Beer Cheese Recipe

In a medium size saucepan over medium high heat, melt the butter.
Stir in the flour and whisk for about a minute for the flour to cook off.

While whisking, slowly add in the milk, whisking until smooth. Allow to thicken for 1-2 minutes.

Once thickened, add in seasonings whisking until combined.
Add in the beer and stir.

Next, add in ½ c of freshly shredded cheese at a time. Allow the cheese to melt before adding more. Repeat the process until all the cheese is melted.

Remove from the heat and serve!

Store any leftover beer cheese in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

 

A Tip From Marci: Freshly shredded cheese melts easier than store bought cheese and has a smoother consistency. Store bought cheese has a powdery coating to keep it fresh longer and doesn’t melt as well.

Beer cheese is a delicious and versatile dip that pairs well with a variety of dippables. Here are some tasty options you can serve alongside your beer cheese:

1. Pretzels

• Soft Pretzels: Warm, soft pretzels are a classic choice for dipping. Their slightly chewy texture complements the creamy beer cheese perfectly.
• Pretzel Sticks: Great for a crunchier option, pretzel sticks are easy to dip and ideal for snacking.

2. Crackers

• Saltine Crackers: Simple and crunchy, saltines are a great neutral base that lets the flavor of the beer cheese shine.
• Rye Crackers: Their hearty texture and slightly spicy flavor add an extra layer of interest.

3. Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Slice a fresh baguette into rounds or chunks. Its crisp crust and soft interior make it a perfect vessel for beer cheese.
• Breadsticks: Thin, crispy breadsticks are ideal for dipping and provide a satisfying crunch.

4. Fresh Vegetables

• Celery Sticks: Their crunchiness and mild flavor make celery an excellent vehicle for beer cheese.
• Carrot Sticks: Sweet and crisp, carrots add a nice contrast to the rich and creamy dip.
• Bell Pepper Strips: Colorful and juicy, bell peppers add a fresh and slightly sweet touch.

5. Potato Chips

• Kettle-Cooked Chips: Their extra crunch and hearty texture pair well with the smooth and creamy beer cheese.
• Wavy Chips: The ridges help scoop up more of the dip, making them a great choice.

6. Tortilla Chips

• Plain Tortilla Chips: Classic and versatile, they offer a satisfying crunch and are excellent for dipping.
• Flavored Tortilla Chips: Try chips seasoned with flavors like lime or chili for an added kick.

7. Meats

• Cooked Sausages: Sliced cooked sausages or kielbasa can be dipped into the beer cheese for a hearty snack.
• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender, grilled chicken skewers add a savory option that pairs well with the rich dip.

8. Fruit

• Apple Slices: Crisp and slightly sweet, apple slices provide an unexpected and delicious contrast to the savory beer cheese.
• Pear Slices: Like apples, pears offer a sweet and juicy complement.

9. Mini Pretzel Bites

• Cheese-Stuffed Pretzel Bites: These little bites are perfect for dipping and have the added bonus of cheese inside.

10. Mini Sandwiches

• Sliders: Mini sandwiches or sliders made with your favorite fillings can be a fun and hearty way to enjoy beer cheese.

These options provide a range of textures and flavors that will complement the creamy, savory notes of your homemade beer cheese. Enjoy your dipping feast!