Beef Rarebit
A hearty, cheesy beef dish with a spicy kick, perfect for comforting meals and crowd-pleasing gatherings, combining sharp cheese, beer, and seasoned beef squares.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat beer just to boiling in a 3-quart saucepan.
- Stir in shredded cheese, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper.
- Heat, stirring constantly, until cheese is melted.
- Break Freezer Beef Squares apart.
- Stir beef squares into the cheese mixture.
- Heat to boiling; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until beef squares are hot, about 15 to 18 minutes.
- Sprinkle with paprika or snipped parsley.
- Serve over hot, cooked noodles if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream while melting the cheese. If you don't have sharp process American cheese, try a combination of cheddar and a processed cheese for a similar melt. Adjust the cayenne for your heat preference, and feel free to experiment with different beers to enhance flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with classic American recipes like Beef And Gravy Roast.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef Rarebit is delicious served over hot, cooked noodles, but you can also try it with crusty bread or steamed vegetables for a lighter option. Pair with a side salad or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve it as a dip with pretzels or tortilla chips.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. If the mixture thickens, add a splash of beer or milk to loosen it up while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Rarebit contains roughly 66 calories, with 3g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while sharp process American cheese gives the best melt, you can substitute it with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary slightly.
What type of beer works best for this recipe?
A lager or pale ale is ideal for this dish, as they provide a balanced flavor without overwhelming the cheese. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite beer to find a combination that suits your taste.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
While you can freeze leftovers, the texture may change upon reheating. If you plan to freeze, portion out servings and store in airtight containers. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).