Melted Swiss and Bacon Fondue

Name: Melted Swiss and Bacon Fondue
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz Gruyère cheese, grated; 8 oz Emmental cheese, grated; 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh bread cubes or vegetables for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Gourmet Plates

I absolutely love this melted Swiss and bacon fondue recipe! It combines gooey Swiss cheese with the smoky goodness of bacon, creating a dip that's perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. As I experimented with different cheeses and ingredients, the combination of Gruyère and Emmental proved to be the best match. The richness of the cheese blends beautifully with the crispy bacon bits, and serving it with crusty bread and fresh vegetables makes it even more enjoyable. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-06T20:54:30.903Z

When I first crafted this melted fondue, I knew I wanted something bold and savory. I found that starting with a blend of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses gave a wonderful depth of flavor. Through trial and error, I learned that adding a splash of white wine not only enhances the taste but also helps achieve that perfectly creamy consistency that we crave in a fondue. It's all about balance!

The secret to perfect texture lies in constantly stirring the mixture as it melts. This helps prevent the cheese from clumping together too much, allowing for a smoother melt that is simply divine. I recommend using fresh bread cubes, but feel free to get creative with dipping options!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and smoky flavor from crispy bacon
Smooth, creamy texture that enhances every dip
Perfect for dipping with an assortment of breads and veggies

      

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The foundation of this fondue is the combination of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, which contribute both flavor and texture. Gruyère is known for its nutty, slightly sweet profile while Emmental adds a mild creaminess. Together, they melt beautifully, achieving that luscious, gooey consistency essential for dipping. The balance of flavors from these cheeses creates a rich backdrop that complements the smoky undertones of the bacon.

Using fresh, crusty bread is crucial for the best fondue experience. A baguette or sourdough loaf with a thick crust provides the perfect canvas for scooping up the melted cheese without crumbling. Plan on cutting the bread into sizable cubes—about 1 inch—allowing for a hearty bite while still being manageable for dipping.

Perfecting the Fondue Technique

The process of melting the cheese requires patience. Adding the cheese gradually, a handful at a time, ensures that each addition melds into the mixture without clumping. Stir consistently over medium heat until the cheese is smooth and glossy; heating too quickly can result in a grainy texture, which is undesirable. If you find your fondue isn't melting smoothly, a splash more of wine can help achieve a creamier consistency.

Maintaining the right temperature while serving is another key to fondue perfection. A low flame under your pot is essential to keep the cheese warm without cooking it further. If the fondue begins to thicken, simply stir in a bit more wine to loosen it up. It’s also helpful to keep a sturdy fondue fork or skewer on hand, as it makes it easier to dip ingredients without the cheese pulling away.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful fondue experience:

Fondue Ingredients

8 oz Gruyère cheese, grated
8 oz Emmental cheese, grated
4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh bread cubes or vegetables for dipping

Make sure to have your favorite dippers ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect melted fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the bottom and sides of a fondue pot with the cut edges of the garlic clove. Discard the garlic.

Combine Ingredients

In a separate bowl, toss the grated cheeses with cornstarch to coat. Gradually add the wine to the pot over medium heat, stirring until hot but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Add the cheese mixture to the pot a handful at a time, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Stir in the lemon juice and cooked bacon.

Serve

Keep the fondue warm over a low flame, and serve immediately with bread cubes and assorted veggies for dipping.

Enjoy your delightful melted fondue!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.

Storing and Reheating Fondue

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a double boiler or a fondue pot to warm it gently over low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a splash of wine or a bit of cream to restore the smooth texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the cheese to become rubbery.

If you want to make fondue ahead of time, consider preparing the cheese mixture and storing it in the fridge separately from the bacon and the liquid ingredients. Just add the wine and bacon mixture while heating the pot, and your prep work is done!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your fondue with a variety of dipping options to keep things interesting. In addition to bread cubes, consider offering an assortment of vegetables like blanched broccoli, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips. The freshness of these veggies provides a nice contrast to the rich creaminess of the cheese. For a fun twist, add some pickles or charcuterie for a delightful textural interplay.

To elevate your fondue experience, serve it alongside a nice dry white wine that complements the cheese and bacon. Options like Sauvignon Blanc or a Chablis work wonderfully. Offer small glasses for sipping as you dip; the pairing enhances the flavors of the fondue and makes for a warm, inviting atmosphere at your gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Gruyère and Emmental are traditional, feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses like Fontina or Monterey Jack.

→ What can I dip in fondue?

Crusty bread, fresh vegetables, cooked potatoes, and even apple slices make excellent dippers!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of wine or broth to restore creaminess.

→ Is it possible to make fondue without wine?

Yes, you can substitute the wine with low-sodium vegetable broth or additional cheese; just keep an eye on the consistency.