Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard

Name: Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly cracked black pepper to taste; Bread cubes, vegetables, and fruits for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love hosting gatherings, and one of my favorite dishes to prepare is fondue with cheddar and mustard. This cheesy delight not only becomes the centerpiece of our table but also sparks joy and conversation as everyone dips their favorites into the molten goodness. The combination of sharp cheddar and a hint of zesty mustard creates a unique flavor that's perfect for dipping bread, vegetables, or even apples. Trust me, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and indulgent!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:13:11.862Z

When I first experimented with making fondue at home, I didn’t realize how easy and fun it could be. Combining cheddar cheese with a touch of mustard adds depth and a slight bite, which gives this dish an irresistible flavor. I remember the first time I served it; the cheese was perfectly melted, and the aroma filled the kitchen, making everyone gather around the tabletop.

One tip I can share is to use a mix of cheeses to achieve the perfect consistency and flavor profile. I find that a blend of aged and sharp cheddar along with the tangy mustard elevates the entire experience, and it's a fun way to engage guests as they create their own dipping combinations!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Rich, cheesy flavor combined with a tangy kick of mustard
Fun, interactive dining experience with friends and family
Perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings

      

Mastering the Cheese Blend

Using a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère lends a complex depth to your fondue. Sharp cheddar provides a robust, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the nutty undertones of Gruyère. Make sure to shred the cheese yourself if possible; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process. When preparing the mixture, combine it with cornstarch thoroughly, as this will help create a smooth, cohesive fondue without lumps once melted.

Another key to achieving a velvety texture lies in gradually adding the cheese to the simmering wine. By whisking constantly as you introduce the cheese, you create an emulsion that captures the flavors and provides a luxurious mouthfeel. If the mixture appears too thick or is clumping, you can loosen it with an extra splash of white wine or a bit more lemon juice to help smooth it out.

Perfecting the Dipping Components

When selecting items for dipping, consider variety to create an exciting culinary experience. Baguette cubes are a classic, but you can also opt for sourdough or even pretzel bites for a twist. Fresh vegetables such as blanched broccoli, sliced bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes contrast wonderfully with the rich fondue. Additionally, fruits like apple slices offer a refreshing sweetness that balances the cheese's heaviness. Cut everything into bite-sized pieces for easy dipping and handling.

For added flavor, you can toast your bread cubes in the oven with a little olive oil and garlic before serving. Just spread them out on a baking sheet and bake for about 8-10 minutes at 375°F until golden and crispy. This extra step enhances the texture and flavor and makes for a more delightful dipping experience since the crispy bread will hold up better against the molten cheese.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a gathering, you can prepare the cheese mixture a day in advance. Simply combine the shredded cheeses and cornstarch, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. On the day of the gathering, prepare the wine and garlic mixture, and whisk in your cheese blend as directed. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld and develop overnight for an even tastier fondue.

Leftover fondue can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. If you find the texture too thick upon reheating, add a dash of wine or milk to restore its creamy consistency. You can also transform leftovers into a creamy pasta sauce or a delightful cheese dip by simply warming and remixing with some herbs and spices.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful fondue experience:

Fondue Ingredients

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Bread cubes, vegetables, and fruits for dipping

Make sure to have a variety of items to dip in the luscious cheese sauce.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your cheesy fondue:

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese with cornstarch. This prevents clumping during melting.

Heat the Wine and Garlic

In a fondue pot or a saucepan, heat the dry white wine and minced garlic over medium heat until simmering, but do not boil.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually whisk in the cheese mixture, stirring constantly until smooth and fully melted. Add the Dijon mustard and lemon juice.

Season and Serve

Add freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving pot or fondue pot and serve immediately with bread cubes, veggies, or fruits.

Enjoy the fondue warm and gather around to dip your favorites!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, avoid pre-shredded cheese as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melting quality.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue becomes grainy after melting the cheese, this could be due to overheating. Cheese should ideally melt gently over medium heat; too high of a temperature can cause the proteins to separate, leading to an undesirable texture. If this happens, remove the pot from heat and stir in a bit of additional wine or lemon juice to help revive the emulsion and improve smoothness.

Another common issue is the fondue stiffening up as it cools. To maintain a perfect consistency throughout your gathering, keep the fondue pot on low heat or over a candle flame designed for fondue pots. Additionally, continuous stirring will help keep everything silky and warm for dipping enjoyment.

Flavor Variations

If you're looking to switch things up, consider incorporating herbs and spices directly into the fondue for added complexity. Fresh thyme or rosemary can offer an aromatic twist, while a sprinkle of smoked paprika can enhance the depth of flavor. For a more adventurous blend, try adding a shot of your preferred spirit, such as bourbon or beer, during the cooking process—this can impart a unique character to the fondue that guests will find intriguing.

Additionally, you can explore different cheese combinations. Substitute some of the Gruyère with fontina for a creamier texture, or use pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure to adjust the cornstarch proportion accordingly if you're altering the cheese types to maintain the intended consistency and prevent clumping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses for fondue?

Absolutely! You can mix in other flavorful cheeses like fontina or even blue cheese for a different taste.

→ What can I dip in fondue?

Common options include bread cubes, raw vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, and fruits like apple slices or pear chunks.

→ Is fondue hard to make?

Not at all! It’s quite simple, as long as you follow the steps carefully and ensure your cheese is well mixed with the wine.

→ Can I make fondue ahead of time?

While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.