Jalapeño Beer Cheese Dip: Creamy, Spicy, and Brewed to Be the MVP of Any Snack Table
This Jalapeño Beer Cheese Dip brings together sharp cheddar, smooth beer, and fresh jalapeño heat into one skillet of molten, addictive magic.
It’s got the depth of a good beer cheese, the spice of nacho night, and the vibe of a pub snack that decided to go full superstar.
Whether you’re serving it for game day, party night, or snack-dinner at home — this dip disappears fast.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds in for heat, out for mild)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup beer (lager, pale ale, or amber — see notes)
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt + pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack
- Optional toppings: extra jalapeños, green onions, bacon bits, or hot sauce drizzle
Beer Tip: Use a lager, amber ale, or wheat beer for smooth flavor. A pale ale adds a citrusy hop note that pairs well with the spice. Avoid IPAs unless you love bitterness.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Base
- In a medium skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add onion and jalapeños; cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
Step 2: Build the Roux
Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Slowly whisk in beer and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened — 3–5 minutes.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
Stir in Dijon, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Lower heat and gradually stir in cheeses, a handful at a time, until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Serve Hot
Transfer to a warm bowl or serve right out of the skillet.
Top with extra jalapeños, green onions, or bacon if you’re going big.
Serving Suggestions
- Dip With:
- Soft pretzels or pretzel bites
- Tortilla chips or pita wedges
- Roasted potatoes or tater tots
- Grilled sausages or brat slices
- Fresh veggies (if you’re pretending to be balanced)
- Make It a Meal:
- Pour over burgers, nachos, or loaded fries
- Stir into mac & cheese for a spicy upgrade
- Drizzle over scrambled eggs or breakfast tacos
Beer Pairing
- In the dip:
- Lager
- Amber ale
- Pale ale or wheat beer
- In your glass:
- Same beer you cooked with
- Hoppy pale ale to match the jalapeño punch
- Cream ale or Kölsch to mellow the spice
Final Thoughts
Jalapeño Beer Cheese Dip is spicy, creamy, and totally addictive — like bar food got a college degree in comfort food and now rules every party.
Easy to make, easy to eat, and easy to customize based on your beer and heat tolerance.
Cheers to cheese, heat, and hops in one glorious skillet! 🧀🌶️🍺
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