Fondue with White Cheddar and Garlic

Name: Fondue with White Cheddar and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups grated white cheddar cheese; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh bread cubes, for dipping

Highlighted under: Fusion Kitchen

I absolutely adore fondue, especially when it combines the creamy goodness of white cheddar and the aromatic touch of garlic. This recipe has become a go-to for gatherings with friends, and it's a crowd-pleaser every single time. The blend of flavors brings out the richness of the cheese while the garlic adds a lovely depth. It's simple to prepare and provides a relaxed dining experience that encourages everyone to dig in and enjoy. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll be hooked on its delightful taste.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:34:37.281Z

When I first discovered the joy of making fondue at home, I knew I wanted to try something special. Using white cheddar adds a unique twist; it’s creamy and flavorful, making every bite satisfying. I recall hosting a cozy night with friends, and we savored every moment as we dipped crusty bread into the bubbling pot. The aroma of roasting garlic filled the air and created an inviting atmosphere.

I learned that the key to a smooth fondue lies in how you mix the cheese with the wine. A little cornstarch helps to create that perfect, velvety texture without clumping. Each batch we made was better than the last, and I couldn’t believe how easy it was to impress our guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy white cheddar that melts perfectly every time.
The fragrant hint of garlic elevates the dish.
A fun and interactive dining experience for everyone.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of white cheddar is crucial for achieving that creamy texture we all love in fondue. Look for good-quality aged white cheddar, as it will melt more smoothly and provide a robust flavor. I personally prefer sharp cheddar for a more pronounced taste—just remember to shred it yourself for the best melting results, as pre-packaged cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.

Garlic plays a vital role in this fondue recipe, giving it depth and aromatic richness. When mincing, be sure to press down hard enough to release the juices, which is where the flavor lies. It’s vital not to overcook the garlic with the wine; just warm it through for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. This creates a beautiful foundation without allowing the garlic to turn bitter.

Making the Perfect Fondue

The technique of adding cheese gradually is key to achieving a smooth fondue. Use a wooden spoon and stir constantly as you incorporate the cheese into the warm wine and garlic mixture. This gradual addition allows the cheese to melt uniformly, helping to avoid clumps and ensuring a silky texture. If you notice clumping, reduce the heat and keep stirring to bring it back together.

To stabilize the fondue, the cornstarch mixed with lemon juice acts as a binding agent. It's important to dissolve the cornstarch fully in the lemon juice before adding it to the cheese mixture. This technique not only prevents separation but also adds a slight tang that balances the richness. If you find your fondue separating, adding in more cornstarch slurry can help bring it back together.

Ingredients

To make the ultimate fondue, gather the following ingredients:

Fondue Ingredients

2 cups grated white cheddar cheese
1 cup dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh bread cubes, for dipping

Having everything prepped will help in creating a smooth and enjoyable fondue experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious fondue:

Prepare the Fondue Base

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the minced garlic and white wine, warming it up gently. Avoid boiling.

Add Cheese Gradually

Gradually stir in the grated white cheddar, allowing it to melt completely. Add the cornstarch mixed with lemon juice to help stabilize the mixture.

Serve and Enjoy

Once melted and smooth, transfer the fondue to a serving pot. Serve with fresh bread cubes for dipping.

Enjoy dipping your bread into the warm, cheesy goodness!

Pro Tips

For the best texture, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded. Also, stirred cheese fondue should remain warm but not boiling.

Serving Suggestions

While fresh bread cubes are classic for dipping, consider offering a variety of dippables like blanched vegetables, pretzel bites, or even sliced meats. This not only enhances the experience but allows for interesting flavor combinations. I often include sturdy vegetables like bell peppers and asparagus as they hold up well to the cheese and provide a refreshing contrast.

For a delightful twist, try drizzling a little truffle oil or sprinkle fresh herbs like chives or parsley on top of the fondue just before serving. This elevates the dish visually and adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the white cheddar.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftover fondue, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you reheat, do it gently on low heat while adding a splash of white wine or milk to restore creaminess, stirring continuously to prevent the mixture from separating.

Freezing is not ideal for fondue due to the cheese's texture changing upon thawing, which could result in a grainy result. However, if necessary, freeze it in small portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating—just prepare for it to require a bit more work to regain that luscious melt.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different cheeses to find your favorite combination.

→ Can I substitute the wine?

Yes, for a non-alcoholic version, use vegetable or chicken broth instead of wine.

→ What should I use for dipping?

Crusty bread, vegetables, or even cooked potatoes work great for dipping.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.