Step-by-step instructions
- Start by lightly spraying a large (12-inch) oven-safe skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Cut each thawed roll in half to form round dough balls—this will give you 18 pretzel bites.
- In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil, then stir in the baking soda. Once boiling, add the dough pieces and boil for 30 seconds.
- Carefully remove the dough from the pot and transfer it to the skillet, leaving the center open for the cheese dip. Brush the dough with an egg wash (mix the egg yolk with 3 tablespoons of water) and sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter, then add minced garlic and sauté for one minute. Whisk in the flour, gradually adding the light beer until the mixture is smooth.
- Mix in the Dijon mustard, paprika, and softened cream cheese, stirring until the cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth. Fold in most of the crumbled bacon.
- Stir in 1 cup each of the sharp white cheddar and sharp cheddar cheese, saving some for the topping. Pour the cheesy goodness into the skillet around the pretzel rolls. Top with the remaining cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until the pretzel bites are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving warm, garnished with fresh chives.
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve your Pretzel Beer Cheese Dip, consider a rustic wooden board for an appealing presentation. Pair it with fresh vegetable sticks for a crunch and to balance the richness of the dip. It’s also perfect alongside a chilled lager or pilsner to enhance the beer flavor. Don’t forget napkins—things might get a little cheesy!
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dip in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. If you want to freeze any leftover cheese dip, consider separating the pretzel bites from the cheese to maintain their textures.
Helpful cooking tips
- For a crispier pretzel crust, increase the boiling time to 1 minute.
- Don’t rush adding the flour to the melted butter; whisking in gradually helps prevent lumps in your cheese sauce.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor; gouda or smoked cheese can add a nice twist!
Creative twists
Feel free to switch things up! Add jalapeños for a spicy kick or mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a gourmet experience. You can also try different beer varieties like stout for a rich flavor or switch out the bacon with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Pretzel Beer Cheese Dip?
The total preparation and cooking time for this dish is about 50 minutes, making it a quick and enjoyable project.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a unique twist on flavor.
Is it safe to eat leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Always reheat thoroughly before consuming.
