Hot Dog Topping Recipe: Smithtown Beer Cheese

Kentucky invented beer cheese, and today locals jealously guard their secret recipes. If you don't have one of your own, you can't do better than this one from a beloved chef.

By: Jed Portman

Smithtown Beer Cheese

Ouita Michel
Holly Hill Inn
Midway, Kentucky

Kentucky invented beer cheese, and today locals jealously guard their secret recipes. If you don’t have one of your own, you can’t do better than this one from a beloved chef. Get the recipe.

Photo by: Margaret Houston

Margaret Houston

From Ouita Michel
Holly Hill Inn
Midway, Kentucky

Ingredients

Makes enough for 8-10 hot dogs.

2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 medium sweet onion, minced
1 tbs. Crystal hot sauce
1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp. black pepper

1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp. dry mustard
1 lb. sharp cheddar, shredded
1/2 to 1 cup porter beer

Preparation

Pulse first eight ingredients together in food processor until well blended. Add shredded cheese a handful at a time, alternating with beer and pulsing until you reach a rough but spoonable texture. Add more beer if necessary. Chill until ready to serve.