Hot Sausage Beer Cheese Dip

 Hot Sausage Beer Cheese Dip

 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beer (lager or pale ale works best)
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt & black pepper (to taste)
• Optional: chopped green onions or jalapeños for garnish

 Instructions

1. Cook the sausage
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.
2. Make the roux
   In the same pan, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Add liquids
   Slowly whisk in the beer, then the milk. Keep whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Add cheese
   Lower the heat and stir in cheddar cheese and cream cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
5. Season it
   Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine
   Return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir everything together until well combined and hot.
7. Serve
   Transfer to a serving bowl or keep warm in a slow cooker.

Serving Ideas

• Tortilla chips
• Pretzels
• Toasted bread cubes
• Crackers

 Tips

• Use a stronger beer for a deeper flavor.
• Add a splash of hot sauce if you like it spicy.
• If the dip gets too thick, stir in a little extra milk.