Fondue with Fontina and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Fontina and Thyme
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Fontina cheese, grated; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; Crusty bread, cut into bite-sized pieces; Blanched vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots); Cooked meats (e.g., chicken, sausage)

Highlighted under: Exotic Treats

When I think about the ultimate comfort food, fondue immediately comes to mind. The moment I dip a crusty piece of bread into the rich, melted Fontina cheese, I’m transported to a cozy ski lodge. This recipe is special because it uses fresh thyme, which adds a delightful herbal note to the creamy cheese. Using high-quality Fontina is key, as it melts beautifully and provides that creamy texture we all crave. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this fondue is sure to impress!

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:40:08.991Z

Creating the perfect fondue is an art, and I’ve spent many evenings experimenting until I found the right balance of flavors. The Fontina cheese, known for its meltability, blends beautifully with white wine and a hint of garlic. I prefer to use fresh thyme because it elevates the flavor profile without overpowering the cheese. You can serve this fondue with a variety of dippers like vegetables, bread, or even cooked meats!

One tip I learned along the way is to continuously stir the mixture while it melts. This ensures that the cheese blends smoothly with the wine and garlic, preventing any clumps. Don't forget to keep the heat low; a gentle simmer will prevent the cheese from seizing up. Enjoy the process of dipping and sharing this delightful dish with friends and family!

Why You'll Love This Fondue
Creamy, decadent cheese that melts beautifully
The aromatic touch of fresh thyme enhances the flavor
Perfect for sharing with friends or a romantic evening

Perfecting Your Fondue Technique

When preparing your fondue, the key is to slowly incorporate the cheese into the wine mixture. Adding the cheese too quickly can result in clumping, preventing that desired smooth texture. I recommend using a fork or a whisk to stir vigorously, ensuring that the cheese melts evenly. This process should take around 5 to 7 minutes, just until the mixture is glossy and creamy without any lumps.

Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for fondue success. If the heat is too high, the cheese may separate, while too low may result in a less than ideal melting experience. Aim for a gentle simmer; you can adjust the heat as needed to keep the fondue bubbling lightly. I find that a fondue pot with a temperature control feature is incredibly helpful for maintaining consistent heat.

Choosing Your Ingredients Wisely

The choice of cheese is paramount in achieving the perfect fondue. While Fontina and Gruyère are classic options that offer excellent melting properties, consider experimenting with variations like aged cheddar for a sharp note or even smoked Gouda for a unique twist. Just remember that mixing different cheeses can affect the melting behavior, so keep ratios balanced to maintain creaminess.

Fresh thyme brings a refreshing herbal note to the fondue, elevating the cheese's natural flavors. If you can’t find fresh thyme, you can use dried thyme, but use it sparingly as its flavor is more concentrated. For a different take, experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano, keeping in mind that they will change the overall taste profile.

Ingredients

For the Fondue

200g Fontina cheese, grated
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

For Dipping

Crusty bread, cut into bite-sized pieces
Blanched vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots)
Cooked meats (e.g., chicken, sausage)

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready for dipping!

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese

In a large bowl, combine the grated Fontina and Gruyère cheese. Set aside.

Infuse the Wine

In a fondue pot or a heavy-bottom saucepan, rub the inside with the halved garlic clove. Add the white wine and heat over medium flame until simmering.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine while stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Season the Fondue

Add fresh thyme leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.

Serve

Transfer the fondue to a heated fondue pot and serve immediately with the prepared dippers.

Enjoy your fondue while it’s warm for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For a thorough flavor experience, pair your fondue with a crisp white wine that matches the one used in the recipe. Always keep the flame low to prevent the cheese from burning.

Dipping Delights

Besides crusty bread, there are plenty of delicious options for dipping into your fondue. Vegetables like blanched asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini can add a refreshing crunch and help balance the richness of the cheese. Consider lightly tossing the vegetables with olive oil and a pinch of salt before blanching to enhance their flavor.

For those who enjoy a heartier option, cooked meats such as chicken or sausage can turn your fondue into a robust meal. Ensure the meats are cooked through before dipping; you can even slice them into bite-sized pieces for easier handling. Leftover meats can be used up in a fun and interactive way while enjoying the fondue.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you're looking to prep ahead, you can prepare the cheese mixture and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply bring it to room temperature and reheat with the white wine until melted. This makes entertaining much easier, as you avoid last-minute preparation stress.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, although the texture may change slightly. To reheat, add a splash of white wine or milk to restore some creaminess and gently warm on low heat while stirring. You may not achieve the same silky texture as when freshly made, but it will still be delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can mix and match cheeses, but make sure to include some melt-friendly varieties like Emmental or Havarti.

→ What can I dip into the fondue?

Bread, blanched vegetables, cooked meats, and even fruits like apples can be delicious with this fondue!

→ Can I make this fondue ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead and reheat it gently when ready to serve.

→ What wine should I use?

A dry white wine is best, like Sauvignon Blanc or a nice Chardonnay, to complement the cheese flavors.