Fondue with Garlic Herb Cheese

Name: Fondue with Garlic Herb Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Black pepper to taste; Fresh bread or vegetables for dipping

Highlighted under: Global World Food Recipes

I absolutely love making fondue, especially this Garlic Herb Cheese version. There's something about the blend of cheeses infused with fresh herbs and the subtle kick of garlic that makes this dish truly special. The gooey texture paired with pieces of crusty bread or fresh vegetables creates a delightful eating experience. It's perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. I've discovered that using a mix of cheeses provides a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:02:34.612Z

When I first tried making fondue at home, I was amazed at how simple yet decadent it could be. The combination of garlic and herbs really brings the dish to life. It's surprising how just a few extra ingredients can transform a basic cheese fondue into something that feels gourmet. I recommend toasting your bread slightly before dipping; it enhances the entire flavor profile!

The first time I served this at a gathering, I was thrilled to see how much everyone enjoyed it. The aroma of garlic filled the room and the interactive nature of fondue encouraged everyone to join in on the fun. Don’t forget to stir the cheese gently to keep it smooth and creamy!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich blend of cheeses with aromatic herbs
Customizable with your choice of dippers
A fun social dish perfect for gatherings

      

Choosing the Right Cheeses

Using Gruyère and Emmental in this fondue recipe creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Gruyère adds a nutty, slightly sweet note, while Emmental contributes a smooth, creamy consistency. If you’re looking to experiment, you can substitute these cheeses for Fontina or even a mild cheddar, but strive for cheeses that melt well to maintain that coveted creamy texture. Avoid hard cheeses as they may not melt properly and could result in a grainy fondue.

While grating cheese, ensure that your pieces are as finely grated as possible. This helps the cheese melt uniformly and integrates seamlessly with the wine, preventing any clumping during the melting process. A food processor can make quick work of this, but a box grater will do just fine if you're careful. Just remember that when it comes to fondue, finer is better for that silky smooth finish.

Wine Selection Tips

The choice of white wine is crucial to the overall flavor profile of your fondue. Look for a dry white wine with good acidity, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay. Avoid overly sweet wines, as they can disrupt the balance of flavors. If you're not a fan of wine or prefer a non-alcoholic option, low-sodium vegetable broth or apple cider can be used as substitutes, though the flavor will differ slightly. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to enhance these alternatives.

When infusing the wine with garlic, keep an eye on it as the heat builds. Simmering for too long can evaporate the alcohol and alter the taste of the fondue. Ideally, let it simmer just until fragrant, around 1-2 minutes. This way, the garlic flavor melds beautifully without losing the wine's essential character, making sure each dip captures the best balance of savory goodness.

Ingredients

For the Fondue

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Black pepper to taste
Fresh bread or vegetables for dipping

Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses!

Instructions

Prepare the Cheeses

In a bowl, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with cornstarch. This will help to keep the cheese smooth while melting.

Infuse the Wine

In a saucepan, heat the white wine over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes to infuse the flavors.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the saucepan, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and creamy.

Add Herbs and Season

Stir in the fresh thyme and parsley, then add black pepper to taste. Continue stirring until everything is well combined.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the melted cheese to a fondue pot. Serve immediately with bread or vegetables for dipping!

Enjoy this delicious fondue while it's warm!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the cheese mixture.

Serving Suggestions

For dipping, a rustic baguette is classic, but consider adding an assortment of dippers. Fresh vegetables such as blanched broccoli, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes provide a delightful contrast to the rich cheese. For something more unique, try adding cooked potatoes or even pretzel bites for an extra savory crunch. Just ensure your dippers are bite-sized for easy handling and maximum cheese coverage.

Presentation matters with fondue; consider using a decorative fondue pot. A ceramic pot retains heat best, allowing your cheese to remain smooth and melty throughout the meal. Place a small tea light under the pot to keep it warm but avoid direct flames, which can scorch the cheese. Don't forget to set out forks for each guest, which enhances the social aspect of this dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning to make this fondue ahead of time, you can prepare the cheese mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture gently, adding a splash of wine or broth to restore its creamy consistency if it thickens. Avoid reheating at too high a temperature as this can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy.

Leftover fondue can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, take care to do so slowly over low heat, stirring continuously. You might need to add a bit more liquid to achieve a smooth consistency again. While it's tempting to eat it straight from the container, consider using it as a topping for baked potatoes or pasta for a quick meal that's just as delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses like fontina or mozzarella.

→ Can I make this fondue ahead of time?

It's best to serve fondue fresh. However, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead and store it in the fridge before melting.

→ What dippers do you recommend?

Crusty bread, fresh vegetables like broccoli and carrots, or even cooked potatoes work great!

→ Can I make this fondue without wine?

Yes, you can use broth as a substitute for wine, but it will alter the flavor slightly.