Introduction

Beer cheese dip is a rich and creamy appetizer perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Combining sharp cheddar, Colby jack, and a hint of beer, this dip brings bold flavor and smooth texture together in every bite.

A close-up image shows a white cup filled with smooth, creamy cheese sauce speckled lightly with black pepper, surrounded by many small, shiny, golden-brown pretzels sprinkled with coarse salt. The cup sits on a white marbled surface that blends softly with the warm tones of the snack, creating a comforting and inviting scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup Blue Moon beer (or other pale ales)
1/2 cup milk
1 garlic clove (thinly minced)
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 &frac13; cups Colby jack cheese (shredded from block)
1 &frac13; cups sharp white cheddar cheese (shredded from block)
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla chips or pretzels for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk until well combined to create a roux. Cook for about one minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 2: Slowly add the beer and milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, onion powder, and hot sauce.
Step 3: Continue stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, which can take up to 5 minutes. You’ll notice the dip becoming creamy and smooth as you stir.
Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Colby jack cheeses, stirring until all the cheese has melted and the dip is smooth.
Step 5: Taste the dip and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve warm with tortilla chips or pretzels.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother dip, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Try swapping the beer for a non-alcoholic pale ale or apple cider for a different flavor profile.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky or spicier kick.
Serve with fresh vegetables like celery or carrots as a lighter dipping option.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess. If the dip thickens too much when cold, add a splash of milk while reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white cup filled with smooth, creamy yellow cheese dip sprinkled with black pepper on top, surrounded by rectangular light brown crackers with visible seeds and texture, and a pile of small, shiny brown pretzels in the background. A woman's hand is dipping a single pretzel into the cheese dip, showing the pretzel's round shape and coarse salt spots. All this is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make beer cheese dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip up to two days in advance. Store it refrigerated and reheat gently before serving. Freshly stirred cheeses tend to melt better, so you might want to add a bit of extra cheese when reheating.

What can I substitute if I don’t have beer?

If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute the beer with an equal amount of chicken broth, vegetable broth, or non-alcoholic beer. Each alternative will slightly change the flavor but still produce a tasty dip.