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Beer Cheese Dip with Bacon Recipe

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4.6 from 63 reviews

This Beer Cheese Dip with Bacon is a creamy, savory appetizer perfect for game days and gatherings. Made with a blend of cheddar cheeses, cream cheese, and a splash of lager beer, it offers a rich and flavorful dip topped with crispy bacon. Serve it warm with pretzels, kielbasa sausage, corn chips, or baguette slices for irresistible snacking.

Ingredients

Beer Cheese Dip

  • 3 pieces bacon, diced into small cubes
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all purpose flour (1:1 gluten free flour can be used)
  • 1 cup lager beer
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese (about 8 oz)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp yellow cheddar (about 4 oz)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon freshly chopped chives

Dipping Sides (Optional)

  • Soft pretzels or soft pretzel bites
  • Kielbasa sausage, grilled and sliced into 1/2 inch pieces
  • Sturdy corn chips
  • Baguette slices

Instructions

  1. Crisp up bacon: In a medium sized cast iron pan, add diced bacon pieces over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Discard the bacon fat from the pan to prepare for the next step.
  2. Make the roux: In the same pan over medium heat, add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Then add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously to combine. Continue stirring for about three minutes to cook the roux properly, which will help thicken the dip and remove any raw flour taste.
  3. Add liquids: Pour in the lager beer while whisking to incorporate and prevent lumps. Let the beer simmer gently for 2 minutes, stirring often to reduce slightly and infuse the flavor. Next, add the whole milk and continue to simmer for another 2 minutes, maintaining a gentle simmer to thicken the mixture.
  4. Add cheese: Lower the heat to low and add the cream cheese, shredded white cheddar, and shredded sharp yellow cheddar cheeses. Stir slowly and continuously for about 2 minutes until all the cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  5. Add flavor: Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and freshly chopped chives. Mix thoroughly to blend all the flavors evenly throughout the dip.
  6. Top with bacon and serve: Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon over the top of the cheese dip. Serve immediately while warm, or transfer the dip to a fondue pot or warming dish to keep it melted. Pair it with soft pretzels, grilled kielbasa slices, corn chips, or baguette slices for dipping.

Notes

  • To make this recipe gluten free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten free flour blend.
  • If you prefer a smoother dip, use a good quality sharp cheddar cheese and ensure it is shredded finely.
  • Keep the dip warm during your event by using a warming pot or fondue set to maintain optimal dipping consistency.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dip before serving.
  • This dip pairs exceptionally well with soft pretzels and grilled sausage for a hearty snack.