Hot Sausage Beer Cheese Dip
Hot Sausage Beer Cheese Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. This creamy, cheesy dip is packed with bold flavors from spicy sausage, tangy beer, and a medley of melted cheeses. Perfect for game days, potlucks, or any gathering, this dip pairs wonderfully with soft pretzels, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies.
- - 1 lb hot Italian sausage crumbled
- - 1 tbsp olive oil if needed for browning sausage
- - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- - 1 cup beer lager or ale works best
- - 1 cup heavy cream
- - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional for extra heat
- - Salt and pepper to taste
- - 2 green onions thinly sliced (for garnish)
- **For Serving:**
- - Soft pretzels
- - Tortilla chips
- - Sliced veggies carrots, celery, or bell peppers
**Cook the Sausage:** In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the hot Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
**Make the Roux:** In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and smooth.
**Add the Beer and Cream:** Gradually whisk in the beer, followed by the heavy cream. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
**Melt the Cheese:** Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
**Season the Dip:** Stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
**Combine with Sausage:** Fold the cooked sausage into the cheese mixture, ensuring it’s evenly incorporated.
**Serve:** Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot with your favorite dippers.