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A beer dip that'll be different with every brew you try. A lager beer, not too heavy or too light, is a safe choice to play nice with the sharp flavor of cheddar.
2 packages (8 ounce size) cream cheese, softened
1 package (1 ounce size) ranch salad dressing mix
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, for best results do not use packaged shredded cheese
1/3 cup beer, any kind is fine
In a bowl, combine the cream cheese and ranch dressing mix until blended. Stir in the cheddar cheese until well distributed. Add the beer and mix well. The dip will be very soft at this point.
Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 3-24 hours.
Serve the ranch beer dip with hard pretzels.
Try different types of beer to see how they affect the flavor of the dip.
Try adding additional mix-ins like diced jalapenos, bacon bits, or green onions for a heartier dip.
Reserve some shredded cheddar cheese to sprinkle on top before serving for visual appeal.
If the dip is too thick after chilling, you can stir in a little more beer.
A mild lager is recommended for this dip, as it pairs well with the sharp cheddar flavor but you can experiment with different beers for different flavors.
For best results, it is recommended to shred the cheddar cheese yourself rather than using pre-packaged shredded cheese, as it will blend more smoothly and have a better texture.
Yes, this dip can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days before serving.
If you don't have ranch dressing mix, you can use a combination of dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder or use a recipe like this.
If you prefer a thicker dip, you can add more cream cheese or reduce the amount of beer used in the recipe.
You can omit the beer if desired, but it will alter the flavor of the dip. You'll need to replace it with another liquid (milk works well).
Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl for combining the cream cheese, ranch salad dressing mix, cheddar cheese, and beer until blended.
Electric Mixer (optional): For convenience, you can use an electric mixer to combine the ingredients instead of stirring them by hand.
Measuring Cups: For measuring the beer and cheese.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon: To thoroughly mix the ingredients together in the bowl (if not using a mixer).
Plastic Wrap or Lid: For covering the mixing bowl while the dip chills in the refrigerator.
Hard Pretzels: Serve the dip with thick and salty hard pretzels for a classic snack combo.
Veggie Platter: Pair with a colorful arrangement of raw vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers to add a healthy element.
Potato Skins: Use the beer dip as a topping for crispy potato skins. The gooey cheese and ranch notes will take the skins to the next level.
Corn Chips: Scoop up the dip with corn chips instead of pretzels for a tasty twist.
Baked Chicken Wings: Use the dip as a dipping sauce for spicy baked chicken wings. The cool, creamy ranch flavor will balance the spice on the wings.
Mac and Cheese: Fold leftover beer dip into macaroni and cheese for a creamy, cheesy dish that packs a flavorful punch.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Use the dip as a filling for stuffed mushrooms, adding breadcrumbs and herbs for a simple, savory appetizer.
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reviews & comments
February 23, 2010
Meh. This dip was just so-so: nothing to write home about but not BAD either. I think there are too many competing flavors (seasoned salt, Ranch dressing, cheddar cheese...) and am sure that there is a much better use for these ingredients. Will keep searching for dips that are tasty paired with pretzels.
November 23, 2008
This was a huge success, my son'law takes this dip everywhere now