Wisconsin Beer Dip
Beer dip is a beloved tradition in Wisconsin. You’ll find this creamy, tangy dip served with pretzels at most football gatherings or potlucks.
What I love about Wisconsin Beer Dip
Beer dip is a tradition in Wisconsin. You will find it at almost all football gatherings, graduation parties or function requiring someone to bring a dish to pass.
It’s a combination of two types of cheese and beer, so you have all your basic Wisconsin food groups there. It has a really unique flavor, making it a great alternative to your regular chips and dip. You can even vary the flavor by using various types of beer, but you can use any you have on hand.
This recipe was taught to me by my friend, Sarah, and for some reason it took me a really long time for me to remember how to make it. I had to keep having her remind me how to make.
I finally wrote it down and photographed it last year (so please excuse the not-so-great photo), but I somehow forgot all about it until I was scrounging through my photography archives the other day. So I just had to share, especially since there aren’t many more football gatherings left this year.
If you like this dip recipe, you have to try this old Philadelphia pecan dip, and this homemade ranch dip recipe and this healthy buffalo chicken dip.
Searching for more dip recipes? These are always a hit with a crowd: fried pickle dip recipe / french onion dip / vegan spinach artichoke dip.
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- Vegan cream cheese – Use your favorite brand and soften before preparing your dip.
- Ranch dip mix – Make sure to check the labels for added milk. Generic store-brand ranch dip mix (not dressing mix) such as Kroger and Meijer are typically dairy free. Always double check labels before using.
Making changes to a recipe can result in recipe failure. Any substitutions listed below are simple changes that I believe will work in this recipe, but results are not guaranteed.
The following is a detailed overview of the recipe steps with added tips and tricks for recipe success. For a simplified and printable version, including ingredient amounts and more formal instructions, see the recipe card below.
How to make Wisconsin beer dip
Combine ingredients in a mixing bowl. It is much easier to mix if you allow the vegan cream cheese to soften to room temperature before mixing. Mix until well combined.
Spread mixture in a thin layer on a serving dish. Use a rubber spatula to help smooth the mixture to about a quarter of an inch thick.
Top with cheddar shreds and serve with pretzels. Some Wisconsinites will mix the cheddar shreds directly into the dip rather than topping it with cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 7- ounce packages vegan cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 – 1/2 cup beer
- 1 1- ounce packet ranch dip mix*
- 1 1/2 cups dairy free cheddar shreds
- Pretzels (for serving)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, beer and ranch seasoning until smooth.
- Spread mixture evenly over a plate or serving platter.
- Top with shredded cheese. Serve with pretzels.
Wish to be young again, now the only gathering is to see our G.G. Grandson
playing Mosquito Hockey. Let the fun to others.
It must be wonderful to get to watch him play hockey. You are so lucky!
Oh I need to try this! And I have all the ingredients on hand. Fabulous! I love surprising The Hubby with things I think he will just love.
Thanks!
I hope he loves it. It’s perfect for watching football!
What a fun idea for the Superbowl! I’ve never heard of this, even though I grew up in the midwest. Love your site… I just noticed we both use the same theme.
Nice! I love the foodie theme. You have to try this dip. If you’re from the midwest you will obviously love it 🙂
What kind of beer do you use?? Do you recommend a like dark or light beer or something different??
I make this recipe all the time…. Received it in a family-produced cookbook from KS. We sprinkle some chopped green onions on top. Also great served with baby carrots. I use cheap beer (ie Bud Light or whatever is around), vs something good that might have more of a pungent taste.
I make this all the time for events! The only difference is I never use the whole ranch packet (I just add to taste) and I always use Spotted Cow (a must for Wisconsinites). It’s always a big hit!
You’re missing the bacon! I’m from WI and I’ve been eating this my whole life, but there’s always bacon bits in it!
I found this link on Pinterest and made it for my family who came in town this weekend. It was so good and so easy! (I hate to make anything that involves more than 5 ingredients). I like simple and quick recipes! My whole family loved it. This will be the dish I make for potlucks, parties, etc!
This sounds truly yummy. Believe it or not, I’ve never heard of it! I live in Buckeye country, where we do tons of football tailgates. This would be a nice addition!
You definitely should try it! It’s amazing!
Substitution for the beer???
Sorry for the delayed response. The only thing I can think of would be non-alcoholic beer, but there isn’t much out there with the same flavor. Is it because of an allergy or the alcohol? You could try some sparkling cider, but it might be too sweet.
I have been making this dip for years. It is my go-to recipe pretzel dip.
Everyone loves it! Sometimes we also add crumbled bacon, but it is delicious without as well.