Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard

Name: Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated; 1 cup Gruyere cheese, grated; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 clove garlic, halved; Bread cubes and vegetables for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue, especially when it features the rich flavors of cheddar and a hint of mustard. It creates a lovely, tangy dip that perfectly complements crusty bread and fresh vegetables. This recipe has quickly become a go-to for gatherings with friends or cozy nights in. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of technique, you can create a creamy, indulgent treat that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:19:07.690Z

Last winter, I decided to experiment with my fondue recipes and added mustard to my classic cheddar blend. The result was nothing short of fantastic! The mustard added a unique twist that elevated the ordinary cheese experience, making it more complex and satisfying. I particularly enjoyed the way the flavors danced together, and I couldn't believe how easy it was to put together.

Every time I serve it, people rave about it. I recommend using a combination of aged cheddar for depth and a touch of sharpness. Pair it with fresh baguette slices and crunchy vegetables for an unforgettable culinary experience. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich cheese flavor balanced with a zesty mustard kick
Perfect for dipping with crusty bread and fresh veggies
Great for gatherings or a cozy night in

      

Understanding the Cheese Blend

The combination of cheddar and Gruyere cheese in this fondue recipe is essential for achieving a rich and complex flavor profile. Cheddar offers a sharpness that is beautifully complemented by the nutty, creamy taste of Gruyere. I recommend using a block of aged cheddar for a deeper flavor, as the aging process intensifies its character. If Gruyere is hard to find, consider substituting it with Emmental or a similar Swiss cheese, but be mindful that the flavor will change slightly.

When preparing the cheese, it's crucial to grate it yourself instead of using pre-shredded varieties. Packaged cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how the cheese melts. Grating fresh cheese ensures a smoother fondue texture and better incorporation of flavors. Aim for medium to fine shreds to facilitate even melting, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes after adding the cheese to the warm wine.

Perfecting the Fondue Technique

To achieve that dreamy, velvety fondue consistency, keep the heat at a medium level throughout the cooking process. If the wine mixture boils, it can cause the cheese to become grainy instead of melting smoothly. Start by warming the wine until it begins steaming, then reduce the heat slightly before adding the cheese mixture in small handfuls, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or a silicone spatula to promote an even melt.

Using the right fondue pot also plays a role in your success. A ceramic or enameled cast iron pot retains heat evenly and helps prevent hot spots. If you notice the fondue starting to thicken too quickly, you can add a splash more wine to adjust the texture, stirring well to reincorporate it. I often find that the fondue benefits from resting for a minute off the heat before serving, allowing it to settle into a perfect dipping consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
1 cup Gruyere cheese, grated
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 clove garlic, halved
Bread cubes and vegetables for dipping

Make sure everything is prepped and ready for a fun fondue experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious cheddar and mustard fondue:

Prepare the Fondue Pot

Rub the inside of the fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to infuse a subtle garlic flavor.

Combine Cheese and Mustard

In a bowl, toss the grated cheddar and Gruyere cheeses with cornstarch, then add the mustard.

Heat Wine and Lemon Juice

In the fondue pot, combine the dry white wine and lemon juice. Heat over medium until hot but not boiling.

Add Cheese Mixture

Gradually stir in the cheese mixture, allowing it to melt slowly while stirring continuously for a creamy texture.

Serve and Enjoy

Once smooth, serve immediately with bread cubes and assorted vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious creation with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a smoother fondue, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged cheese. Adjust the amount of mustard to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your fondue with a variety of dipping options for an impressive spread. Besides classic crusty bread cubes, consider offering fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, carrot sticks, and bell pepper slices for added color and crunch. You can also experiment with bite-sized cooked potatoes or pretzel bites to enhance the flavors. Just ensure your dippers are adequately sized to scoop without breaking – that's the key to an enjoyable fondue experience.

For a more gourmet touch, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the fondue pot. These additions bring complexity and depth to the flavor, complementing the sharpness of the cheese and the tang of mustard. I often serve these on the side, allowing guests to customize their dipping experience.

Storing Leftovers and Reheating

If you have any leftover fondue, it's best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator immediately after serving. It'll keep well for about 2-3 days. When you're ready to reheat, place the fondue in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of wine or lemon juice to help regain its creamy texture, as refrigerated fondue can thicken considerably. Stir gently and patiently, as rushing may lead to separation.

If you're planning ahead and want to make the fondue in advance, prepare the cheese mixture and store it separately from the wine base. Then, when you're ready to serve, just warm the wine, gradually incorporate the cheese blend, and enjoy the freshly melted fondue experience without the last-minute rush.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses such as Fontina or Havarti for variety.

→ What if I don’t have a fondue pot?

You can use a heavy-bottomed saucepan on the stove and transfer to a heatproof serving dish.

→ Is it safe to eat fondue leftovers?

Yes, just store any leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove before serving again.

→ Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, simply substitute the wine with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.