How To Save Cheese Fondue: Tips For Leftovers

Fondue is a Swiss dish that gained popularity in the U.S. in the 1960s and remains popular today. But what happens when you have leftover cheese fondue? Can you save it?

The good news is that you can indeed save leftover cheese fondue. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days if placed in a sealed container, although one source suggests it can be safely stored for up to three days. It can also be frozen, although the texture may change slightly.

Reheating Fondue

Leftover fondue should be placed in the refrigerator to prevent it from turning bad and to reduce the chances of food poisoning.

Using a Double Boiler

This is the most recommended way to reheat fondue. Fondue is delicate, and reheating it on direct heat can cause it to separate. To use this method, you will need a double boiler, which is made up of two pots. The first is larger and similar to a saucepan, while the second is a shallow saucepan that can sit inside the bigger pan. If you don't have a double boiler, you can improvise by placing a stainless steel or glass bowl on top of a saucepan.

Add a small amount of water to the large saucepan and place it on a stove over medium heat. Once the water starts to simmer, place the small saucepan or bowl on top and add the fondue, stirring continuously. You can also add a few drops of wine to help the fondue melt and maintain its texture. Make sure the fondue does not boil, as it may separate. Serve hot.

Using a Stove

This method works well for reheating cheese fondue. Fill a pot with water and place it on a stove over medium heat. Once the water starts to simmer, add the wrapped fondue and leave it for about 5 minutes or until it melts. Remove the fondue from the water, unwrap it, and pour it into a pan on a stove over medium or low heat. Stir until the fondue achieves a smooth consistency. Be careful not to overdo it, as the fondue may start sticking to the bottom of the pot. Serve hot.

Using a Microwave

This is the fastest method, but the fondue may separate if not done properly. Place the fondue in a microwave-safe dish or bowl and cover it with a wet paper cloth or towel to retain moisture and texture. Microwave for about 15 seconds, then remove and stir. Repeat this process until you are satisfied with the temperature of the fondue.

Tips for Reheating Fondue

• Corn starch acts as an emulsifier and prevents the cheese from separating during melting, so it is recommended to use it when making fondue.
• Traditional fondue recipes call for brandy, specifically Kirschwasser, which is made with cherries. If you don't have this, you can use other types of brandy or cognac, but avoid cherry liqueur as it may be too sweet.
• Fondue can be made in a slow cooker instead of a ceramic pot on the stove.
• Once reheated, fondue can be served with a variety of foods such as sliced apples, blanched vegetables, sliced salami, chips, cooked shrimp, and more.
• Fondue does not cook food, so make sure any meat or other foods you use are already cooked.

Freezing Fondue

Fondue is a delicious dish, but it can be difficult to judge how much to make, and you may be left with leftovers. Freezing fondue is an option if you want to save it for later, but there are some things to keep in mind.

First of all, it is important to let the fondue cool down completely before freezing it. Once it has cooled, you can slice it up and store it in freezer bags or an airtight container. Make sure to remove as much air from the bag as possible and label the container with the date. Fondue can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, but it is best to use it within 1-2 months for the best quality.

When you are ready to use your frozen fondue, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or under warm water if you are in a hurry. It is important to bring the cheese to room temperature before reheating it. Reheat the fondue slowly over low heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired consistency. You may need to add some fresh cheese or wine/kirsch to improve the flavour and consistency.

Some people consider freezing fondue to be a sin, as it can alter the texture and taste of the cheese. The cheese may become grainy and separate when thawed, and the wine may separate from the cheese during freezing. However, if you are looking to reduce food waste, freezing fondue is a good option. You can also get creative and use your frozen fondue in recipes like casseroles or pasta dishes.

Fondue in Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a popular comfort food that can be made in a variety of ways, including baked and stovetop versions. One creative twist on the classic recipe is to incorporate cheese fondue, resulting in a dish known as Fondue Macaroni and Cheese. This fusion combines the best of both worlds, bringing the indulgent flavours of Swiss fondue to the heartwarming familiarity of macaroni and cheese. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating this mouthwatering meal.

Ingredients

For the fondue macaroni and cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

• Pasta of your choice (elbow macaroni, penne, ziti, or similar)
• Salt
• Dry white wine (or dry vermouth/chicken stock)
• Bourbon or whiskey (optional)
• Shallot, peeled and finely minced
• Fresh thyme leaves
• Cheese: Gruyere, Emmentaler (for authenticity), and optionally cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Havarti
• Cornstarch (or arrowroot)
• Ground white pepper
• Dijon or spicy brown mustard
• Grated or shredded Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, green onions, or additional thyme for garnish

Method

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for a slightly firmer texture. Drain, toss with a little olive oil to prevent clumping, and set aside.
• In a bowl, combine your chosen grated cheeses with cornstarch, ensuring they are well coated. The cornstarch is crucial for creating a smooth emulsion when combined with wine and cheese.
• In a saucepan, heat your chosen liquid (wine, vermouth, or stock) to a simmer. If desired, you can also add a small amount of bourbon or whiskey for an extra kick.
• Slowly add the cheese to the simmering liquid, a handful at a time, whisking or stirring continuously until each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Ensure the mixture remains hot but does not reach a boil.
• Once the cheese is fully melted and combined, add the shallot, thyme, salt, pepper, and mustard. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Add the cooked pasta to the fondue mixture, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
• Transfer the fondue macaroni and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese.
• Place the baking dish under the broiler for about 3 minutes, or until the top is browned and bubbling. Keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.
• Serve immediately, garnished with your choice of fresh herbs.

Tips and Variations

• If using gluten-free pasta, opt for the best quality you can find to ensure it holds up well under the weight of the cheese sauce.
• For a more authentic Swiss fondue experience, include Kirsch, a delicious colorless cherry brandy, in your recipe.
• If you prefer a stronger cheese flavour, you can experiment with different combinations of cheeses, such as Gruyere, cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Havarti.
• To make the dish more indulgent, add a crunchy breadcrumb topping, similar to the traditional macaroni and cheese.
• While this dish is best served fresh, any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently. However, be aware that the pasta may break down and the sauce may separate upon reheating.

Fondue as a Dip

Fondue is a great dish to serve at a party or get-together, but what do you do with any leftovers? Well, the good news is that there are plenty of ways to use up leftover cheese fondue, and they don't involve throwing it out. Here are some ideas for how to use leftover fondue as a dip:

Reheating Fondue

Fondue can be reheated in a microwave or on the hob over a low heat. You can also add a little milk or wine to the fondue and stir until it is smooth and hot, but be careful not to let it boil as it may split.

As a Dip

• Heat up your leftover fondue and serve it as a dip for veggies or chips. You can also add some herbs like basil, thyme, or chives for extra flavour.
• Use it as a dip for breadsticks at parties.
• As a dipping sauce for crudites or chips. You can add some seasonings like black pepper, cayenne, garlic powder, or onion powder to give it a bit of a kick.
• As a dip for French fries.
• As a dipping sauce for chicken wings. You can add some lemon juice and garlic powder to give it an Asian flair.

Other Ways to Use Leftover Fondue

You can also use leftover fondue in a variety of other ways, such as:

• Adding it to scrambled eggs, oatmeal, or pasta for an extra boost of protein.
• Using it as a sauce for pizza or lasagna, or mixing it into macaroni and cheese.
• Making grilled cheese sandwiches.
• As a topping for grilled vegetables.
• Using it as a salad dressing by mixing it with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
• As a filling for breakfast burritos.
• Freezing it and using it later.

Fondue in Other Dishes

Fondue is a great dish to make for a get-together with friends or family, but sometimes there are leftovers. Luckily, there are many ways to use leftover fondue in other dishes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Hash Brown Casserole: Mix leftover fondue with frozen, shredded hash browns and cream of chicken soup. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes until golden brown.
• Topping for Grilled Meats: Brush your favourite meats with oil and cook over medium-high heat. In the final two minutes of cooking, top with fondue and let it melt.
• Mac and Cheese: Stir leftover fondue into your favourite mac and cheese recipe for an extra cheesy dish.
• Cheese Sandwich: Take a toasted slice of bread and brush it with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic. Top with slices of provolone or other leftover cheeses. For an extra kick, add some pickled peppers.
• Scrambled Eggs, Oatmeal, or Pasta: Add leftover fondue to scrambled eggs, oatmeal, or pasta for an extra boost of protein and flavour.
• Pizza or Lasagna Sauce: Mix leftover fondue with marinara sauce and spread over pizza crust or lasagna before adding the rest of your ingredients.
• Vegetable Sauce: Use leftover fondue as a sauce for vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower. Simply melt the fondue and drizzle it over steamed or roasted veggies.
• Dessert: Cut open an extra-long bread loaf and fill it with leftover fondue. Cut into churro-sized pieces, cover in cinnamon and sugar, and deep fry until golden brown.
• Dip: Combine leftover fondue with mayonnaise, ketchup, or other dipping sauces such as barbecue or buffalo sauce. Serve with french fries, pretzels, breadsticks, or vegetable sticks.
• Breakfast Toast: Mix leftover fondue with honey and cinnamon and spread on toast. Top with fresh fruit, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for a sweet and crunchy topping.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Take two slices of bread, butter one side of each slice, and place them together with leftover cheese in between. Melt the fondue and brush it over the top of the sandwich. Cook in a pan over medium heat until golden brown on both sides.
• Quesadillas: Spread leftover fondue over a tortilla, fold it in half, and grill in a pan until golden brown. Serve with salsa.
• Chili or Baked Potato Topping: Add leftover fondue to chili or spread it over baked potatoes before baking for a hearty and filling dish.
• Soup: Throw some leftover fondue into your favourite soup to make it creamier. It works especially well with creamy soups like broccoli cheddar or potato soup.
• Dipping Sauce: Use leftover fondue as a dipping sauce for crudites or chips. Add some seasonings like black pepper, cayenne, garlic powder, or onion powder for extra flavour.

There are endless possibilities for using leftover cheese fondue in other dishes. Get creative and enjoy your fondue in new and exciting ways!

Frequently asked questions