This Beer Cheese Sauce is a silky, savory, pub-style classic — perfect for pouring over fries, burgers, pretzels, brats, nachos, mac & cheese, or just eating with a spoon (we’re not judging).

It’s ultra-easy, endlessly customizable, and ready in 15 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for game day or just craving something cheesy and bold, this sauce always delivers.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup beer (lager, amber ale, or pale ale — avoid overly bitter IPAs)
• ¾ cup milk or half & half
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix: cheddar, Jack, Gruyère, etc.)

Beer Tip: Use a mild, malty beer like a Vienna lager, amber ale, or cream ale. Want more bite? Try a pale ale or citrusy wheat beer. Avoid heavy stouts or bitter IPAs unless you want a bold twist.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Roux

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a golden roux.

Step 2: Add the Beer & Milk

Slowly whisk in the beer, then the milk.

Simmer gently, stirring constantly, for 3–5 minutes, until thickened and smooth.

Step 3: Flavor It

Stir in mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheese a handful at a time until fully melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

• Pour Over:
  • Soft pretzels or pretzel bites
  • Burgers and brats
  • Nachos or baked potatoes
  • Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts
  • Macaroni (boom: instant beer mac & cheese)
• Use As:
  • Sandwich spread
  • Dip for fries or tater tots
  • Base for beer queso or beer fondue

Variations

• Spicy Beer Cheese: Add minced jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce
• Stout Cheese Sauce: Use Guinness and swap in sharp white cheddar or Irish cheddar
• Smoky Version: Add chipotle powder or smoked Gouda
• Extra Tang: Stir in a splash of Worcestershire or apple cider vinegar

Storage

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container
• Reheat: Gently on the stovetop or microwave in 30-sec bursts, stirring with a splash of milk or beer

Beer Pairing

• In the sauce:
  • Amber ale
  • Vienna lager
  • Cream ale
  • Wheat beer (for a lighter, citrusy twist)
• On the side:
  • Same beer you cooked with
  • Pale ale or pilsner for contrast
  • Brown ale or porter for a deeper, malty match

Final Thoughts

Beer Cheese Sauce is comfort food in liquid form — rich, smooth, and full of malty depth from your favorite brew.

It’s fast, flexible, and way more fun than anything from a jar. Once you make it, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything.

Cheers to beer, cheese, and making every bite better! 🧀🍺🔥

Explore Our Top Cooking-with-Beer Recipes 🍺 🍺

From crispy beer-battered classics to bold mains, cheesy dips, breads, and even desserts — these roundups bring together the best of beer-infused cooking. Whether you’re hosting a game day, planning a backyard BBQ, or just experimenting in the kitchen, there’s a beer recipe collection for every craving.

• 🍽️ Cooking with Beer (Main Hub) – Your ultimate guide to cooking with beer, from mains to apps and desserts.
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• 🧀 Beer Cheese & Dips – Beer cheese soup, queso, nachos, ranch dip & more.
• 🍖 Beer Can Chicken & Grilled Mains – Bold, juicy recipes straight from the grill.
• 🌶️ Beer Infused Chili’s – Hearty, bold, and slow-simmered beer-infused chili.
• 🍻 Beer Mac & Cheese – Creamy, quick& easy, made to impress.
• 🍰 Beer-Infused Desserts & Sweets – Sweet treats made better with beer.
• 🎉 Oktoberfest & Seasonal Ideas – Perfect pairings for parties, fall feasts, and festive gatherings.