Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper; French bread, cut into cubes

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue, especially this Swiss cheese and garlic version. The combination of melted cheese paired with the rich flavor of garlic creates an indulgent dip that is perfect for gatherings. It is simple to prepare yet feels special enough for any occasion. Each dip into the oozy cheese feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This recipe has become a favorite in my household, and I can’t wait to share it with you so you can enjoy this delightful experience yourself!

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:16:26.133Z

When my friends and I gather for a cozy night in, fondue is always our go-to dish. The magic happens when melted Gruyère and Emmental cheeses meet sautéed garlic, creating a rich and flavorful dip that instantly elevates even the simplest bread. I remember the first time we made it—everyone was smitten with each gooey bite!

The secret is to ensure your pot is pre-heated properly; it makes all the difference in achieving that perfect melted consistency. Trust me, once you try this cheesy delight, it will become your new favorite comfort food to share with loved ones.

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Decadent flavor with the perfect balance of cheese and garlic
A fun, interactive meal that brings people together
Endless dipping possibilities: bread, vegetables, and more

      

Understanding Your Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for achieving the perfect fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional Swiss cheeses that melt beautifully, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. Gruyère contributes a slightly nutty taste, while Emmental adds a mild sweetness. Look for high-quality, aged cheeses to enhance the overall depth of flavor in your fondue. If you're looking for an alternative, you can substitute with other melting cheeses like Fontina or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different twist.

If you're serving a crowd, consider mixing in other cheeses. A combination of 50% Gruyère and 50% Emmental is traditional, but adding a touch of sharp cheddar or a blue cheese can introduce complexity. Just be sure to maintain a good melt ratio; generally, keep the stronger flavored cheeses to around 20% of the total weight for balance.

The Importance of Temperature Control

Temperature is key to a smooth fondue. Heating the wine too quickly can make it boil, which may cause the cheese to seize up rather than melt into a silky sauce. Keep your heat at medium and stir continuously as you add the cheese. This constant motion helps to incorporate the cheese evenly and prevents it from clumping. If you notice the mixture becoming grainy, it's typically a sign of overheating; if this happens, immediately lower the heat.

If your fondue becomes too thick, you can thin it out by gradually adding more warm wine or a splash of broth while stirring. For those desiring a lighter fondue, you might substitute half the white wine with a light vegetable broth, which also adds a pleasant herbal note without overpowering the cheese.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth fondue experience.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
2 cloves of garlic, minced
300ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper
French bread, cut into cubes

Make sure to serve this fondue hot for the best experience!

Instructions

Prepare your fondue pot and gather your partners in fondue crime!

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inner sides of your fondue pot with minced garlic. This adds an aromatic flavor to the cheese.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot and heat it over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, stir continuously until melted and smooth.

Thicken with Cornstarch

Mix cornstarch with a little wine to create a slurry, then stir it into the cheese mixture to thicken it.

Serve

Season the melted cheese with black pepper, and serve immediately with bread cubes for dipping.

Enjoy your hot fondue while chatting and dipping with friends!

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, try using a bit of nutmeg or cayenne pepper in the cheese mixture.

Dipping Delights

While crusty French bread is a classic choice for dipping, don’t hesitate to get creative with your accompaniments. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower work beautifully, offering a slight crunch and absorb the cheese wonderfully. Alternatively, consider using soft pretzels, breadsticks, or even cubed apples and pears to introduce a sweet contrast to the rich cheese.

For a heartier option, you can even prepare bite-sized cooked sausages or shrimp. Just ensure your pieces aren't too large; they should easily fit onto your fondue forks for a delightful bite-sized experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so slowly on low heat in a double boiler or a fondue pot to prevent the cheese from seizing. Add a tablespoon of white wine or a bit of milk to restore the creamy texture while reheating.

If you're planning an event, you can prepare the cheesed mixture ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just rewarm gently before serving. Consider prepping your dipping options as well, arranging the bread and vegetables on platters for easy assembly when it’s time to enjoy your fondue.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Yes, you can substitute other melting cheeses like Fontina or even add some blue cheese for a unique taste.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

You can dip bread, vegetables like broccoli or carrots, and even sliced apples for a sweet contrast.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy again.

→ Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of wine to keep it vegetarian-friendly.