Welsh Rabbit

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: British

Welsh Rabbit, also known as Welsh Rarebit, is a comforting cheese sauce served over toast or crackers. Rich, creamy, and flavorful with a hint of mustard and paprika, it’s perfect for a quick snack or hearty breakfast, appealing to cheese lovers and those seeking a savory, satisfying treat.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 Tbsp. butter
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp. flour
  • 1 1/2 c. milk
  • 1 c. grated American or nippy spreading cheese
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. dry mustard
  • 1/8 tsp. paprika

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a saucepan, then add the flour and blend well.
  2. Gradually add the milk and cook over low heat until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly.
  3. Add the grated cheese and stir over low heat until melted and smooth.
  4. Stir in the salt, dry mustard, and paprika.
  5. Serve hot over toast or crackers.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using sharp cheddar cheese instead of American or nippy cheese. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the butter with olive oil. Make sure to whisk the mixture continuously while cooking to avoid lumps.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Welsh rabbit hot over toasted bread, crackers, or even baked potatoes for a heartier meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced dish. This recipe also pairs beautifully with Surprise Sherbet for a delightful dessert after your meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the Welsh rabbit in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Stir frequently until heated through, being careful not to overcook and separate the cheese.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Welsh Rabbit contains roughly 387 calories, with 11g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (122% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

387 kcal 19% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.6g 21% DV
Total Fat 12.7g 16% DV
Carbs 68.1g 25% DV
Fiber 14.3g 51% DV
Sugar 32g 64% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 309.2mg 13% DV
Potassium 1077.5mg 23% DV
Cholesterol 6.2mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1102.3mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 9.6mg 11% DV
Vitamin D 1mcg 5% DV
Calcium 359.3mg 28% DV
Iron 12.2mg 68% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove, adding a bit of milk if it thickens too much.

What types of cheese work best for Welsh rabbit?

While American cheese is traditional, you can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or a sharp white cheddar for a richer flavor. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well for the best texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Just adjust the amount as needed to achieve the desired consistency.

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).

Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →