Melted Swiss and Bacon Fondue

Name: Melted Swiss and Bacon Fondue
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g Swiss cheese, shredded; 150g cheddar cheese, shredded; 150g bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp lemon juice; Freshly cracked black pepper to taste; Baguette, cut into cubes; Vegetables (such as broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers); Apple slices

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

I absolutely adore fondue, and this Melted Swiss and Bacon Fondue takes that classic experience to a whole new level. The combination of creamy Swiss cheese and crispy bacon creates a rich, indulgent dip that’s perfect for gatherings. I find that serving it with an assortment of fresh bread and vegetables elevates the occasion, inviting everyone to share and savor the moment together. Whether for a cozy night in or a festive get-together, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to the table, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T21:49:28.149Z

When I created this melted Swiss and bacon fondue, I was inspired by the gooey, cheesy experiences of my childhood. The mix of flavors brings back so many memories. I experimented with different cheeses and found that the nuttiness of Swiss, paired with the savory bite of bacon, just made sense. It's honestly one of those recipes that becomes a staple for any get-together.

One specific tip I found essential was to always use a dry white wine in the mixture; it helps to keep the cheese smooth and creamy without clumping. Plus, the wine adds a delightful layer of flavor that balances the richness. Trust me, once you try this fondue, you’ll want to make it again and again!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly creamy and cheesy goodness
Savory bacon bits that add a delightful crunch
Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing

      

Selecting the Right Cheese

The choice of cheese is pivotal in achieving that luxurious melt and flavor profile for this fondue. Swiss cheese offers a nutty taste and excellent melting properties, while cheddar adds a sharpness that balances the creaminess. When shopping, look for high-quality, aged Swiss and sharp white cheddar, which melt better than processed varieties. You could also experiment with Gruyère for a more traditional Swiss fondue flavor, but keep the proportions balanced to maintain the dip's texture.

Cutting the cheese into uniform shreds not only aids in melting but also ensures a smoother consistency. If you don’t have a shredder, a food processor can quickly break down the cheese into the desired texture. Just remember to pulse in short bursts to avoid turning it into a paste.

Perfecting Your Fondue Setup

Using a fondue pot is recommended for optimal heat control, but if you don't own one, a heavy-bottom saucepan will suffice. Maintaining medium heat is crucial; if the wine is too hot, it can cause the cheese to seize up instead of melt smoothly. You should see small bubbles forming around the edges before adding the cheese mixture, ensuring the wine is hot enough to melt the cheese without burning it.

If you notice the fondue thickening too much before it can be served, you can easily restore the right consistency by stirring in a little more warm wine. Just add it gradually to avoid becoming too runny. The goal is to achieve a silky, glossy texture that clings beautifully to your chosen dippers.

Ingredients

For the Fondue

300g Swiss cheese, shredded
150g cheddar cheese, shredded
150g bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup dry white wine
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp lemon juice
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For Dipping

Baguette, cut into cubes
Vegetables (such as broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers)
Apple slices

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, toss the shredded Swiss and cheddar cheese with cornstarch. This will help prevent the cheese from clumping together during melting.

Combine Ingredients

In a fondue pot (or a heavy saucepan), combine the dry white wine and minced garlic over medium heat. Once warm, add the lemon juice.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the warm wine, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth.

Add Bacon and Season

Once the cheese is melted, stir in the crumbled bacon and season with freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve immediately with your choice of bread and vegetables for dipping!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try incorporating different cheeses like Gruyere or add a splash of brandy for depth of flavor.

Custom Dipping Options

While bread is the classic inclusion for dipping, this fondue pairs wonderfully with an array of fresh vegetables. Crunchy broccoli florets, sweet cherry tomatoes, and colorful bell pepper strips can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese. Make sure to blanch tougher vegetables like broccoli briefly before serving to help soften them and enhance the flavor absorption.

For a unique twist, consider incorporating fruits such as pear or fig along with apple slices. The sweetness will complement the savory notes of the fondue, creating a more complex flavor experience in each bite.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Although fondue is best served fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time. Shred and combine the cheeses and cornstarch in advance and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before melting to ensure even cooking.

If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm the fondue on the stovetop, adding a splash of white wine or a bit of milk to restore its creaminess as it reheats. Stir frequently to avoid scorching.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Mixing cheeses like Gouda or Gruyere can give your fondue a unique flavor.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of wine to regain its creamy consistency.

→ What can I dip besides bread?

You can dip an array of fresh vegetables, fruits like apple slices, or even pretzels for a fun twist!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, just ensure that your bread and any added ingredients are certified gluten-free.