Beer & Cheddar Fondue

I think this dip screams, "Game Day!" A cheesy, garlicky warm dip made with beer.... perfect for dipping soft pretzels, pretzel sticks, apple slices, those little smoked sausage links, or (in honor of my late hubby)... Slim Jims : )  This dip needs to be kept warm, so if you have a fondue pot, here's an excuse to finally break it out and use it. If you don't have a fondue pot, you can give this dip a quick reheat and stir during commercial breaks (just microwave it for 20 to 30 seconds). The flavor is great - there is no alcoholic taste to it.  I'm not a beer drinker at all - my Dad had to donate a can of beer for me to make it. If you are worried about the kids trying it, I understand. The beer is cooked on the stove-top, so some of the alcohol is cooked out of it, but you can also use a nonalcoholic beer if you wish. I found this recipe in an old Taste of Home Magazine (Feb./Mar. 2011). Note: I have written the full recipe below, but the photos show me making a 1/2 recipe. (I just made it for my family of three.)

Here's what you need:

• 4 c. (16 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 1 c. beer or nonalcoholic beer
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-1/2 tsp. ground mustard
• 1/4 tsp. ground pepper
• Items for dipping: pretzel sticks, soft pretzels, smoked sausage links, apple slices, or Slim Jims

In a large bowl, combine cheese and flour:

In a small saucepan, heat the beer, garlic, mustard, and pepper over medium heat until bubbles form around the sides of the pan:

Reduce the heat to low, and add a handful of the cheese mixture, stirring constantly. When it is almost completely melted, add another handful. Continue adding cheese, one handful at a time, allowing the cheese to melt with each addition. Be sure to continue stirring the entire time.

When all the cheese is mixed in and the dip is smooth, transfer to a serving dish. Keep warm. Enjoy!

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