Shelly's Recipe

BEER CHEESE SPREAD and Grilled Beer-Cheese Sandwich

Category: Spreads -- Cold

1 (2 lb) block sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
1 small onion, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp hot sauce
1/4 tsp ground red pepper
1 (12 oz) bottle amber beer, at room temperature
Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish: thyme sprig

Beat together first 5 ingredients until blended. Gradually add beer, beating until blended after each addition. Beat at medium-high speed 1 minute or until blended and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and chill 2 hours. Garnish, if desired. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator up to 2 weeks.

Note: This recipe makes a lot, but it can be frozen for up to a month. It fits perfectly into 4 (10-oz.) ramekins. Try it over French fries, hot dogs, and chili too. This recipe goes with Grilled Beer-Cheese Sandwich.

Grilled Beer-Cheese Sandwich: Spread 1 tsp. softened butter evenly on 1 side of 2 bread slices. Place bread slices, buttered sides down, on wax paper. Spread 1/4 cup Beer-Cheese Spread onto 1 side of 1 bread slice. Top with remaining bread slice, buttered side up. Cook sandwich in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat 3 to 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cheese is melted.