Wisconsin Holiday Fondue
A rich, cheesy fondue with savory beef, onion, and Italian herbs, perfect for sharing with crusty bread and ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, brown the chopped onion and ground beef. Drain excess fat.
- Add pizza sauce, fennel seed, oregano, and garlic powder to the saucepan.
- Stir the mixture until heated through.
- Add shredded Wisconsin Cheddar cheese and Wisconsin Mozzarella cheese by handfuls.
- Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the cheese and beef mixture into a fondue pot and keep warm while serving.
- Serve with Italian or French bread slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother fondue, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded, as it melts better. You can substitute the Wisconsin Cheddar and Mozzarella with other cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for different flavors. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. This recipe also works well with ground turkey or sausage instead of beef for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fondue with a variety of dippables such as Italian or French bread, fresh vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, or even cooked shrimp. A crisp green salad on the side can balance the richness of the cheese. This dish pairs beautifully with John'S Meat Loaf or can be enjoyed as a standalone appetizer for holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the fondue in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth. If the mixture thickens, add a splash of milk or broth to achieve the desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may cause the cheese to become grainy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wisconsin Holiday Fondue contains roughly 833 calories, with 26g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (106% of the Daily Value), iron (84% of the Daily Value), and calcium (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 860mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
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 fondue ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese and beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in a fondue pot or saucepan, stirring until melted and smooth. This makes it a convenient option for parties or holiday gatherings.
What can I use instead of bread for dipping?
If you're looking for alternatives to bread, consider using fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and cucumbers for a healthier option. You can also use pretzel bites, cooked pasta, or even potato chips for a fun twist. Just ensure whatever you choose is sturdy enough to hold up to the cheese.
Is there a vegetarian version of this fondue?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth in place of any meat-based ingredients. You can also load the fondue with extra vegetables, like sautéed mushrooms or spinach, for added flavor and texture. Make sure to use vegetarian cheese alternatives if needed.
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).