This Gouda-and-Beer Fondue Bread Bowl is the ultimate comfort food for sharing. Smooth, creamy melted gouda is blended with a hint of garlic, beer, and spices to create a rich fondue served right inside a crusty bread bowl. It’s warm, savory, and perfect for dipping pretzels, veggies, or extra bread chunks—ideal for parties, game nights, or cozy winter dinners.
Ingredients
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1 large round loaf of sourdough or country bread
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
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¾ cup light beer (such as lager or pilsner)
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 ½ cups shredded gouda cheese
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Cooking Time
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cook time: 15 minutes
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Total time: 30 minutes
Serving
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Serves 4–6
Instructions
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Prepare the Bread Bowl:
Slice the top off the loaf and hollow out the inside, leaving about 1 inch of bread around the edges to form a sturdy bowl. Save the bread pieces for dipping. -
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook another minute to form a roux. -
Add the Beer:
Gradually pour in the beer while whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes. -
Add the Cheese:
Lower the heat and stir in gouda and cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, allowing each addition to melt before adding more. Mix in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for mild heat. -
Fill the Bread Bowl:
Pour the hot fondue into the prepared bread bowl and place it on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to warm the bread and thicken the fondue slightly. -
Serve:
Arrange the reserved bread cubes, pretzels, or vegetables around the bread bowl. Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and gooey.
Tips
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For extra flavor, add a splash of cream or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the cheese mixture.
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If the fondue becomes too thick, stir in a tablespoon of warm beer or milk.
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Try substituting gouda with smoked gouda or gruyère for a deeper flavor.
Nutrition (per serving)
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Calories: 420
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Fat: 24g
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Protein: 18g
This Gouda-and-Beer Fondue Bread Bowl combines warm, melty cheese with the comforting crunch of bread—an irresistible crowd-pleaser that turns any gathering into a cozy celebration.
