Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, halved; 200ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Fresh vegetables for dipping (like broccoli and bell peppers)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic for gatherings with friends and family. The rich, creamy cheese combined with the aromatic garlic elevates any occasion. When I first tried making fondue, I was surprised at how simple it was to create a restaurant-quality dish at home. The blend of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses offers a velvety texture and deep flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. Pair it with crusty bread and fresh vegetables for dipping, and you've got an unforgettable experience.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:43:12.758Z

When I first introduced Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic at a dinner party, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly the pot was devoured. We opted for a mix of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, which melted beautifully and created that classic stretchy cheese effect. I also learned that a splash of white wine not only adds flavor but also helps the cheese melt smoothly without clumping.

One tip I always share is to keep the heat on low once the cheese is melted. This ensures a consistent texture throughout the meal. It's a fun, interactive dining experience, and everyone enjoys dipping into the gooey goodness!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy cheese envelops perfectly roasted garlic
A fun and interactive way to enjoy dinner with friends
Customizable with your favorite dippables!

      

The Importance of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheeses is crucial for achieving the iconic fondue flavor. Gruyère and Emmental both melt beautifully and provide a harmonious blend of nuttiness and creaminess. Gruyère brings a slightly sweet and earthy note, while Emmental adds a milder, buttery flavor. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with similar cheeses like Fontina or Beaufort, but ensure they can melt well to maintain that silky texture.

When grating your cheese, use a box grater or food processor to achieve an even consistency. This ensures they melt uniformly. I like to mix the cheeses together before adding them to the pot; this helps with even melting and flavor distribution. Avoid pre-grated cheese from the store, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the final texture.

The Garlic Infusion

Garlic is a key flavor component in this fondue. By rubbing the fondue pot with raw garlic, you introduce a subtle yet aromatic undertone to the dish. Make sure to use fresh garlic, as older garlic can have a sharper, more pungent flavor that may overpower the cheese. Additionally, consider lightly roasting the garlic before rubbing for a mellower flavor profile; this technique offers a beautiful caramelization that complements the richness of the cheese.

For a twist, you could add minced roasted garlic into the cheese mixture instead of just for infusion, providing a more intense garlic flavor throughout. Adjust the amount depending on your garlic preference, but start with just a clove or two and taste as you go.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

The beauty of fondue lies in its versatility when it comes to dipping items. While crusty bread is a classic choice, you can elevate your dipping experience with a mix of textures. Consider adding grilled vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for a smoky flavor or thinly sliced meats like salami or prosciutto for an umami-rich addition. When preparing the bread, ensure it's slightly stale or toasted; this will help it hold up better against the gooey cheese.

Presentation also matters! Arrange your dippables artfully around the fondue pot to invite guests to indulge. Additionally, provide various utensils like skewers or long forks that make it easier to dip. For a special touch, offer small bowls of complementary toppings, such as herbs or different types of mustard, to enhance the flavors and allow for customization.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, halved
200ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Fresh vegetables for dipping (like broccoli and bell peppers)

Make sure to have plenty of dippables ready for an enjoyable fondue experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious fondue experience.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves to impart flavor.

Melt the Cheese

Add the grated cheeses, white wine, and lemon juice to the pot. Heat over low flame, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Add the Cornstarch

Dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of wine, and then stir it into the melted cheese to help thicken the mixture.

Season the Fondue

Add black pepper to taste and keep the pot warm over the flame.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with crusty bread and fresh vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy this interactive meal with friends and family, indulging in the cheesy goodness!

Pro Tips

Always keep the fondue pot on low heat after melting the cheese to maintain its creamy texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheese mixture becomes grainy or separates during cooking, it's often due to high heat. To salvage it, remove the pot from the flame and whisk vigorously until it comes together again. For future attempts, always melt the cheese over low heat and avoid rapid boiling, which can cause separation.

Another common issue is cheese that doesn’t melt smoothly. This can happen if the cheese hasn’t been grated finely enough or if you’ve used pre-grated cheeses. Always grate your cheese fresh and ensure it's at room temperature before adding it to the pot, so it melts evenly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can typically last about 3-4 days. When you're ready to reheat it, add a splash of wine or a bit of milk to help it regain its creamy consistency, and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.

Although fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can also make the cheese mixture ahead of time. Prepare the melted cheese and store it in the fridge, then simply reheat it during your gathering. This allows for more time spent with friends and family instead of slaving in the kitchen!

Variations to Try

While the classic Swiss cheese and garlic combination is delightful, feel free to experiment with flavors. Adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary can introduce an aromatic quality. Alternatively, for a kick, try incorporating a splash of chili oil or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the flavor profile.

For those who prefer a more robust fondue, consider incorporating a splash of mustard or even a hint of truffle oil. These additions can provide a gourmet touch that impresses guests. Don't forget to adjust the amount of wine and lemon juice if you're altering the flavor profile, as balance is key to a great fondue.

Questions About Recipes

→ What type of cheese is best for fondue?

Gruyère and Emmental are classic choices that melt well and offer great flavor.

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Yes! You can experiment with different cheeses such as Fontina or Gouda for unique flavors.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Crusty bread, fresh vegetables, and even cooked meats or seafood work great for dipping!

→ How can I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Make sure to keep the heat low and stir constantly while melting.