Make Red Robin’s famous beer cheese dip at home with this easy recipe

A Taste of Red Robin at Home
Craving that creamy, tangy, and oh-so-cheesy Red Robin Beer Cheese dip? You’re not alone! This beloved appetizer has been a fan favorite at the restaurant for years, and now you can recreate its magic in your own kitchen.
Our recipe captures the essence of the original, with its perfect balance of sharp cheddar, creamy beer, and a hint of spice. It’s the ideal companion for game day gatherings, casual get-togethers, or simply a cozy night in.
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to become a new staple in your home.
Red Robin Beer Cheese Recipe
A creamy, indulgent dip inspired by the classic Red Robin Beer Cheese.
Ingredients:
- 240 g / 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 120 g / 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 60 g / 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 250 ml / 1 cup beer (any pale ale or lager works well)
- 120 ml / 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Cooking Details:
- Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 8-10
Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add beer and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika and cayenne pepper (if using). Transfer to a baking dish and bake until golden brown and bubbly.
Ingredients for Red Robin Beer Cheese
To make this delicious beer cheese dip, gather the following ingredients. Note that some ingredients are optional, but they can enhance the flavor and texture of the dip.
The base of the Red Robin Beer Cheese Recipe consists of:
- 240 g / 1 cup mayonnaise
- 120 g / 1/2 cup sour cream
- 120 g / 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 60 g / 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 60 g / 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons / 30 ml beer (any light-colored beer works well)
- 1 teaspoon prepared mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
-
Optional ingredients:
- Chopped fresh chives or scallions for garnish
- 1-2 diced jalapeños for an extra spicy kick
- 1 tablespoon / 15 ml chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon / 15 ml lemon juice
These ingredients will help create a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dip that is perfect for snacking or entertaining. The beer adds a unique twist to the traditional cheese dip, and the optional ingredients can be used to customize the flavor to your liking.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Red Robin Beer Cheese
Craving that creamy, cheesy goodness from Red Robin? You’re in luck! This recipe will guide you through making the perfect beer cheese dip at home.
- Combine the cheese: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 240 g (1 cup) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 120 g (½ cup) shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and 60 g (¼ cup) shredded Gruyère cheese.
- Add the beer and seasonings: Pour in 355 ml (1.5 cups) of your favorite amber or pale ale, along with 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Melt over medium heat: Stir the mixture constantly over medium heat until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer for richness: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Adjust consistency: If the dip seems too thick, stir in a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes, uncovered, to reduce slightly.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the dip and add more Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper to your liking.
- Serve warm: Transfer the beer cheese dip to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately with your favorite dippers, such as pretzel bites, potato wedges, or breadsticks.

Pro Tips for Making Red Robin-Style Beer Cheese
Take your beer cheese dip to the next level with these expert tips and tricks.
Don’t Overheat the Cheese
When melting the cheese, be careful not to overheat it. This can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy. Stir the cheese frequently and keep the heat at a low to medium temperature (160°C / 320°F).
Use the Right Beer
The type of beer used in the recipe can greatly impact the flavor of the cheese. For a true Red Robin taste, use a light-colored beer with a crisp, refreshing flavor, such as a lager or pilsner.
Don’t Overmix the Cheese
When combining the cheese and beer mixture, be careful not to overmix. This can cause the cheese to become tough and rubbery. Stop mixing as soon as the cheese is fully incorporated.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Using low-quality cheese, which can result in a bland or grainy dip.
- Not stirring the cheese frequently while melting, which can cause it to separate and become grainy.
- Overmixing the cheese and beer mixture, which can result in a tough or rubbery dip.
By following these pro tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, authentic Red Robin-style beer cheese dip.
Substitutions for Red Robin Beer Cheese Ingredients
In a pinch, it’s helpful to know which ingredients can be substituted in the Red Robin Beer Cheese Recipe. This dip is a crowd-pleaser, and with a few swaps, it can still be enjoyed even if the original ingredients are not available.
The base of the recipe includes:
- 240 g / 1 cup mayonnaise
- 120 g / 1/2 cup sour cream
- 60 g / 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 60 g / 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 30 g / 2 tablespoons beer (any light-colored beer works well)
- 15 g / 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 7 g / 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 g / 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 g / 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
-
Optional ingredients:
- 10 g / 2 teaspoons chopped fresh chives or scallions for garnish
- 30 g / 2 tablespoons diced jalapeño for extra heat
For substitutions, consider swapping mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version. Cheddar and Parmesan cheese can be replaced with other sharp cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda. Beer can be substituted with a non-alcoholic beer or even a pale ale if that’s what’s available.
Ready to Branch Out? Variations on the Red Robin Beer Cheese Recipe
Love the classic Red Robin Beer Cheese but want to explore new flavor horizons? Here are a few variations to tantalize your taste buds:
Spicy Kick
Add a fiery twist with diced jalapeños (about 1-2, depending on your heat preference) and a pinch of cayenne pepper. The added spice pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and malty beer.
Smoky Delight
Infuse your beer cheese with smoky depth. Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of smoked paprika and a splash of liquid smoke (about 1/2 teaspoon). This variation is especially delicious with pretzels or potato chips.
Garlic Lover’s Dream
Amp up the savory flavor by incorporating roasted garlic. Add 2-3 cloves of roasted garlic to the cheese mixture for a mellow, aromatic punch.
Cheesy Fusion
Experiment with different cheeses! Try adding a handful of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack to the base recipe for a richer, more complex flavor profile.
Storing Red Robin Beer Cheese Dip
Now that you’ve mastered the Red Robin Beer Cheese Dip recipe, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Proper storage will help keep your dip fresh for a longer time, so you can enjoy it whenever you want.
Short-Term Storage (up to 3 days)
For short-term storage, transfer the beer cheese dip to an airtight container and refrigerate at 4°C (39°F). Make sure to press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the dip to prevent air from reaching it.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Store it in the refrigerator at a consistent temperature below 4°C (39°F).
Freezing and Long-Term Storage
For longer storage, consider freezing the beer cheese dip. Transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store it at -18°C (0°F) or below. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
- When freezing, it’s best to divide the dip into smaller portions to make it easier to thaw and use as needed.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Red Robin Beer Cheese
Encountering issues while making Red Robin Beer Cheese can be frustrating, but most problems have simple solutions. Here are some common issues and their fixes:
- Separation or curdling: This can occur if the cheese mixture is heated too high (above 82°C / 180°F) or if the beer is added too quickly. To fix, remove from heat and whisk in a little more beer or cream to stabilize the mixture.
- Lack of flavor: If the beer cheese dip tastes bland, it may be due to insufficient seasoning or using a low-flavor beer. Try adding more Worcestershire sauce or using a more robust beer like an IPA or amber ale.
- Too thick or too thin: Adjust the consistency by adding more beer (240 ml / 1 cup) to thin out or more shredded cheese (120 g / 1/2 cup) to thicken.
- Grainy texture: This can happen if the cheese isn’t melted properly or if cold ingredients are added to the warm cheese mixture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and melt the cheese slowly over low heat (65°C / 150°F).
By addressing these common issues, you can achieve a smooth, creamy, and delicious Red Robin Beer Cheese dip. Remember to always use high-quality ingredients and follow the recipe carefully to minimize the risk of problems arising.
Nutrition Information for Red Robin Beer Cheese
Ready to indulge in some cheesy goodness? Here’s a peek at the nutritional breakdown for this classic Red Robin Beer Cheese dip per serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
This recipe is not gluten-free or vegan. However, it can be made dairy-free by substituting the cheese with a suitable dairy-free alternative.
- Serve warm with crackers, chips, or pretzels for a satisfying snack.
- Use as a dip for veggies like carrots, celery, or cucumber slices.
- Pair with burgers, sandwiches, or wraps for an added layer of flavor.
- Beer (check the label for specific type).
- Cheddar cheese.
- Monterey Jack cheese.

Key Takeaways from Red Robin Beer Cheese Recipe
This recipe offers valuable lessons in crafting the perfect beer cheese dip. By following the Red Robin Beer Cheese Recipe, you can learn how to balance flavors and textures to create a deliciously creamy and tangy snack.
- Combining 240 g / 1 cup of shredded cheese with 120 ml / 1/2 cup of beer creates a rich and velvety base.
- Adding spices and seasonings enhances the flavor profile, while 120 g / 1/2 cup of sour cream contributes to a smooth consistency.
- Cooking the mixture at 180°C / 350°F ensures the cheese is melted and bubbly, perfect for dipping.
These key takeaways from the Red Robin Beer Cheese Recipe provide a solid foundation for experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to create unique dip variations. By applying these lessons, you can develop your own signature beer cheese recipe and impress friends and family with your dip-making skills.
Conclusion: Make Red Robin Beer Cheese at Home
With this recipe, you can now enjoy the iconic Red Robin Beer Cheese in the comfort of your own home. The combination of sharp cheddar, savory beer, and spices creates a rich, velvety dip that’s perfect for snacking or entertaining. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of beer and cheese to create your own unique flavor profiles.
Try this recipe and experience the magic of Red Robin’s famous beer cheese. You might also enjoy other delicious dips and spreads on our site, such as our Spinach and Artichoke Dip or Queso Recipe. Happy cooking!
