Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard

Name: Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Assorted dippers (bread cubes, vegetables, apples)

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Ideas

I absolutely love preparing this Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard because it quickly turns any gathering into a grand celebration. The melty cheese pairs beautifully with the zing of mustard, creating a dip that’s both indulgent and exciting. Whether we’re hosting friends for game night or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this rich and creamy fondue never fails to impress. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up and will have everyone reaching for more bread, vegetables, or whatever they prefer to dunk into this cheesy goodness!

Created by

Tabitha Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:29:34.888Z

When I first tried making this fondue, I thought it might be complicated, but to my surprise, it was straightforward and incredibly satisfying. I ended up using a mix of sharp cheddar and a hint of mustard, which added a delightful kick. The key is to gradually heat the cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy, keeping everything nice and smooth.

The fondue makes for a perfect party dish, allowing everyone to customize their bites with an assortment of dippers. I love how seamlessly it brings people together, creating a festive atmosphere as we indulge in the warm cheese. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich cheddar flavor enhanced by the tangy mustard.
Smooth and creamy texture that's perfect for dipping.
Easy to prepare, making it a great option for any gathering.

      

Perfecting Your Fondue Technique

To achieve the smooth and silky texture that's essential for fondue, it’s crucial to use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese. The anti-caking agents in pre-shredded cheeses can prevent it from melting evenly, resulting in a clumpy fondue. When grating the cheese, opt for a box grater or a food processor to ensure your cheese is uniform in size, which will help it melt down perfectly.

Stirring continuously while melting the cheese is another key technique. This ensures an even distribution of heat and prevents the cheese from seizing or burning on the bottom of the pot. Keep your heat at a steady medium to low, making sure to watch for signs that the cheese is coming together—look for a glossy, homogeneous mixture indicating that everything has melded beautifully.

Choosing Your Dippers

The choice of dippers can elevate your fondue experience significantly. Classic options include crusty bread cubes, but feel free to get creative with your dippers. Grilled or roasted vegetables add a smoky flavor, while crisp apple slices provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese. Always aim to prepare your dippers in bite-sized pieces; this makes it easier to dip and enjoy without the mess.

If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free bread or vegetable sticks for a lighter option. For a more gourmet touch, you can even add infused oils or herbs to your dippers to add another layer of flavor that complements the sharpness of the cheddar and the tanginess of the mustard.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you get started on your delicious fondue!

Fondue Ingredients

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Assorted dippers (bread cubes, vegetables, apples)

Now that you have everything, let’s get to the fun part: making the fondue!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create a delightful fondue experience.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. Discard the garlic.

Combine Wine and Cheese

In the fondue pot, pour the dry white wine and heat it over medium heat until it begins to simmer.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Add Mustard and Season

Stir in the Dijon mustard, black pepper, and cornstarch until well combined and slightly thickened.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to a tabletop burner or serve immediately with your choice of dippers.

Enjoy your warm and gooey fondue!

Pro Tips

For a smoother texture, make sure to use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties, as they often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of white wine or milk to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to regain that smooth texture; this will prevent the cheese from overheating and becoming grainy.

While fondue is best fresh, if you plan on making it ahead of time for a gathering, prepare the cheese mixture and store it in the fridge. When it's time to serve, simply heat it up in the fondue pot. This allows you to enjoy freshly melted fondue with minimal last-minute effort.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

Want to switch things up? Experiment with different cheeses or add a splash of your favorite spirit, such as a bit of bourbon or brandy, for depth. A smokier cheese like gouda can also be mixed with cheddar to create a unique flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of dippers.

For an herbaceous twist, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary towards the end of cooking. This not only brings an aromatic quality but also enhances the overall flavor, making your fondue even more enticing. Just remember that less is more; you want the cheese and mustard flavors to shine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make fondue ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time. Just reheat gently before serving.

→ What types of cheese can I use for fondue?

Besides cheddar, you can experiment with Gruyère, Emmental, or a blend for different flavors.

→ Is fondue gluten-free?

The fondue itself is gluten-free, but be sure to check your dippers for gluten content.

→ What can I use as dippers?

Bread, vegetables, fruits, or even cooked meats work wonderfully as dippers for this fondue.