Fondue with Garlic and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Garlic and Thyme
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; 200 ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Crusty bread, for dipping; Fresh vegetables, for dipping

Highlighted under: Exotic Treats

I love making fondue at gatherings, and this Fondue with Garlic and Thyme has become a favorite in my repertoire. The aromatic infusion of garlic and fresh thyme elevates the rich, gooey cheese into something truly special. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe allows you to create a delightful communal dish that will have everyone coming back for more. Perfect for dipping crusty bread or fresh vegetables, it’s a fantastic way to share both flavors and conversation with friends and family.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:37:13.816Z

When I first tried adding garlic and thyme to my fondue, I was amazed at how these simple ingredients transformed the dish. The garlic adds a subtle, yet flavorful depth to the cheese, while the thyme introduces a fresh aroma that’s hard to resist. I remember my friends raving about it during our last get-together, which made me realize how important it is to use quality cheese and fresh herbs for the best flavor.

Another key to achieving the perfect fondue is to keep the heat low. This ensures the cheese melts evenly without clumping. I often mix in a splash of white wine to provide acidity, which really enhances the overall balance of flavors. Trust me, taking these extra steps makes a world of difference in the final result!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and aromatic flavor profile with garlic and thyme
Perfect for sharing with friends and family
Easy to make and fun to enjoy

The Role of Cheese

The key to a successful fondue lies in the cheese selection. Gruyère and Emmental provide a perfect blend of creaminess and nutty flavor. Gruyère melts beautifully, creating a smooth texture, while Emmental adds a mild sweetness. If you want to experiment, you could substitute half of the Gruyère with Fontina for a more robust flavor, or use a vegan cheese blend to cater to dietary restrictions. Just keep in mind that the melting characteristics may vary with non-dairy options.

Grating the cheese instead of cutting it into chunks helps it melt more evenly and quickly. I recommend using a box grater or food processor for efficiency. If the cheese clumps together during melting, simply lower the heat and continue stirring; this should help distribute the heat for a more gradual melt.

Infusing Flavor

Using fresh thyme and garlic not only adds depth to the flavor but also imparts a fragrant aroma that enhances the fondue experience. When rubbing the fondue pot with garlic, be thorough but quick, as too much garlic can overpower the dish. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can also sauté the garlic in olive oil first and then discard it before adding the wine.

Thyme complements the cheese wonderfully, but don’t hesitate to experiment with other herbs. A touch of rosemary or even a pinch of nutmeg could introduce interesting nuances to your fondue. Just remember, start with smaller amounts to avoid overpowering the cheese’s natural flavors.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to make the process smoother.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
200 ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Crusty bread, for dipping
Fresh vegetables, for dipping

Make sure to have some crusty bread and fresh vegetables ready for dipping!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious fondue experience.

Prep the Cheese

In a bowl, mix the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese with cornstarch. Set aside.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves. Discard the garlic afterward.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the pot and heat it gently over low heat.

Add the Cheese

Once the wine is warm, gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously until smooth.

Stir in Thyme

Once the cheese is melted, stir in the fresh thyme leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Keep the fondue warm and serve with crusty bread and fresh vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue experience with friends and family!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different types of cheese or add a splash of sherry for an additional flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to dipping, crusty bread is a classic choice, but consider adding variety with pretzel bites or even thinly sliced cured meats. Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli or bell peppers not only add color but also provide a nice textural contrast. To prevent the bread from becoming soggy too quickly, try toasting it lightly before serving.

You can also set up a fondue station with various dipping options, allowing guests to personalize their experience. Consider offering a selection of pickles, olives, or roasted garlic cloves for those who enjoy an extra burst of flavor. This communal aspect adds to the fun and encourages conversation around the fondue pot.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing fondue properly is key to maintaining its creamy texture. Allow it to cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat, adding a splash of white wine to help restore its silky consistency. Stir continuously to avoid scorching the cheese.

Fondue also offers a great opportunity for meal prep. You can prepare the cheese and herb mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator, combining it with the wine when you’re ready to enjoy. This makes hosting even easier, allowing you to focus more on your guests and less on the kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It's best to use block cheese and grate it yourself for a smoother melting consistency.

→ What if I don’t have a fondue pot?

You can use a heavy saucepan and transfer it to a heatproof bowl for serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this fondue vegan?

You can use vegan cheese alternatives, but the flavor and texture may vary.