(Courtesy Sierra Nevada Brewing)

Looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dip with a hoppy twist? This Pale Ale Beer Cheese is creamy, tangy, and perfect for pairing with pretzels, veggies, or slathered on a burger.

The citrusy bitterness of the pale ale offsets the richness of the cheese, making this dip a game-day or party staple.

And although you could go with almost any well-crafted hop-forward ale, We went with Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, an assertive yet balanced 5.6% ABV American Pale Ale, one of the beers that sparked the American craft beer revolution when it debuted in 1980.

So let’s do this!

Sierra Nevada Pale Ale Beer Cheese

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup pale ale (not too bitter; avoid overly hoppy IPAs)
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Monterey Jack or Gruyère, shredded
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Make a roux:
   In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to eliminate the raw flour taste.
2. Add liquids:
   Slowly whisk in the pale ale, followed by the milk. Stir until the mixture thickens and is smooth (2–3 minutes).
3. Season:
   Stir in the mustard, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), and a pinch of salt.
4. Melt the cheese:
   Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheeses, one handful at a time, letting each melt fully before adding more.
5. Serve warm:
   Transfer to a serving bowl or fondue pot. Serve with soft pretzels, crusty bread, or raw veggies.

Tips:

• Choose a balanced pale ale — citrusy and malty, not overly bitter.
• For extra zing, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dollop of cream cheese for smoothness.
• Leftovers can be thinned with a splash of milk and used as a sauce for mac and cheese or over fries.

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Want more “Cooking with Beer” recipes?

We’ve got them…

SPICY BACON, CHEESE & LAGER MUFFINS

SIERRA NEVADA NARWHAL STOUT BROWNIES

OKTOBERFEST BEER CHEESE PRETZEL SKILLET

OSKAR BLUES CITRUS-CHILI WINGS

DALE’S PALE ALE STUFFED PIZZA BREAD

(All image credits: Sierra Nevada Brewing)