Pub Cheese Recipe
by Sommer Collier — last updated on Mar 12, 2026 
My pub cheese recipe is a creamy beer cheese spread made with sharp Irish cheddar and a splash of beer. I love serving this easy pub-style dip with warm bread or crackers for a bold appetizer that’s perfect for parties or game day.
After marrying a northerner over 27 years ago, one thing I’ve noticed is that restaurants and pubs up north have something seriously delicious that many of us in other parts of the country are missing out on… Pub cheese. When I first tried it years ago, I was floored by how flavor-packed and creamy this spread is. You can taste the sharp cheddar and hint of beer, and paired with pita chips, warm pretzels, and even apple slices, it’s just perfection in every bite. If you’re a fan of pub classics like my comforting beer cheese soup, then you’re going to love this dip recipe. I serve this Irish pub cheese during holidays and celebrations like Saint Patrick’s Day, and I always keep it on hand at home because it makes a great and incredibly easy snack.
Trish – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ So good, so easy! Will make again many times. Thank you!!!
Table of Contents
Sommer’s Recipe Highlights
Pub Classic at Home – One of my favorite parts of this recipe is that it uses easy-to-find pantry staples. That means you can make this comforting pub classic right at home in just a few minutes.
Versatile – This bold and cheesy beer spread pairs perfectly with pretty much anything. I love to use it as a dip for homemade pita chips, crackers, warm slices of baguette, and fluffy baked pretzels. However, you can also smear it on sandwiches, in wraps, and over flatbread!
Quick and Easy – This dip is the easiest Irish appetizer ever. You simply place the cheddar in a food processor and grind it into small pieces. Then add the rest of the ingredients and puree until smooth. No need to make a roux or melt the cheese. Boom.
Key Ingredients and Tips
- Irish cheddar – This is the base of this creamy dip. I use an Irish cheddar because it’s superbly sharp and bold, and it gives this pub cheese the perfect amount of tanginess.
- Cream cheese – To give the spread that smooth and creamy texture, I use plain cream cheese. Plus, it balances out the sharpness of the cheddar.
- Light Irish-style beer (like Harp Lager) – Using a lighter Irish-style beer like Harp, as opposed to the more popular dark stouts, means you get a light, airy note of beer without overpowering the cheesy goodness. You can also use Hoppy IPA.
- Garlic clove – For some added savory notes and a serious kick, I suggest going for fresh garlic and not the powdered stuff.
- Ground mustard – I use ground mustard or just a touch of Dijon for some added warmth.
- Paprika – To get that beautiful signature color, a dash of paprika is a must!
How To Make
Find the full recipe with ingredient proportions, detailed instructions, and a video tutorial in the printable form at the bottom of the post.
Pulse the cheese – To start off this ridiculously easy recipe, I break apart the cheese into small chunks and toss it into the food processor. Then I blend it all up until the cheddar is basically in crumbs.
Blend some more – Then add in the cream cheese, beer, garlic, ground mustard, and paprika, and blend it all together once more until it’s totally smooth.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy – I love heat, and one way to spice things up here is to add a dash of cayenne pepper directly into the dip before blending it all up.
- Herbs – For some added flavor and a pop of color, add in some chopped chives or dill.
- Extra cheese – Mix in some Gouda for extra flavor.
- Bacon – For a smoky twist and a bit of crunchiness, stir in a handful of cooked bacon crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
My whole family is crazy over Irish cheese spread, and when it comes to celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day, I always make sure to whip up a huge batch. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Crackers, warm pretzels soda bread slices
- Or pair with other Irish favorites like boxty potato pancakes, Irish potato pie, or corned beef and cabbage
- Raw veggies like broccoli and cauliflower florets
Frequently Asked Questions
In my humble opinion, this Irish pub cheese is best served at room temperature. But yes, it can absolutely be heated. Word of warning, though, as it cools, it might get a little gunky, so my advice would be to serve it in a small crockpot to keep it warm.
Absolutely, this is a great make-ahead sauce for any gathering!
The brand ‘KerryGold’ is easy to find in most major grocery chains. All their cheese varieties are basically different types of artisanal aged cheddar, including the Dubliner. I love that one! If you can’t find KerryGold, look for firm, sharp white cheddar.
Storing
Place leftover cheese dip in an airtight container and refrigerate for 7-10 days.
More Irish Recipes
Pub Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 14 ounces Irish cheddar
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup light Irish-style beer (Harp Lager)
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Break the cheddar into chunks and place in the food processor. Pulse to break the cheddar up into small pieces.
- Add the cream cheese, beer, garlic, ground mustard, and paprika. Puree until completely smooth. Scrape the sides of the bowl and puree again if needed. Serve with pita chips, bread, crackers, veggies, or apple slices.
Delicious! Any chance it can be frozen?
Hi Diane!
I would not try to freeze this recipe. Most likely, it will turn grainy when you thaw it.
Can I use a mix of cheddar and swiss for this recipe?
Hi Maureen,
Sure! If you give it a try, please report back. :)
Question – the mustard. I’m assuming it’s the ground mustard – i.e., McCormicks – the powdery stuff. Not stone-ground mustard with pieces of mustard seeds. Thanks!!
Hi Patricia,
Yes, this recipe is calling for dried ground mustard, just to add a little depth of flavor. If you can’t find it, you could add a scant amount of yellow or Dijon mustard, just don’t overdo it or that is all you will taste! ;)
I must make this for anniversary on the 17th. Thank you for sharing!
this recipe is fantastic! thank you so much for sharing this amazing beer cheese dip! St. Patty’s day here I come!
One of my favorite cheeses is the Kerrigold brand Irish cheddar. This is such a great dip recipe with that cheese. And cheese and crackers or cheese and chips are one of my favorite things to eat. This recipe does not disappoint!
Such a fabulous appetizer for St. Patrick’s Day! I love, LOVE it!
Made half a recipe to eat all to myself! Was very wonderful
Can you shred the cheese instead of putting it in the food processor?
Hi Cindy, absolutely! :)
How long does this spread last and would it travel well? We are traveling to a wedding and I’m responsible for the bridal brunch. This would be perfect on the table…
Hi Suzy!
If you pack it in a cooler, you should have no trouble taking it with you. :)
I took this to a St. Patty’s day potluck at work and served with pita chips and mini rye bread squares. It was a hit. I also gave some to my Irish neighbors who asked for the recipe. Great spread and worth finding real Irish cheddar (found it at Kroger).
Made for St Patrick’s Day supper with a few friends. Just delicious and easy to make. Easily made ahead and kept well refrigerated. I’ll definitely make again.