Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with these 18 creamy Welsh rarebit recipes that put a delicious spin on the classic! This beloved British dish, made famous by its rich, cheesy sauce and toasted bread, has been a staple for generations. But we’re not just talking about grandmas’ old recipe book here – we’ve gathered some of the most innovative and mouthwatering variations to take your taste buds on a wild ride.
From classic twists like beer-infused and smoky bacon additions, to bold flavors like truffle oil and jalapeño peppers, these recipes will have you questioning why you ever settled for boring old grilled cheese. And don’t even get us started on the variety of cheeses – from sharp cheddar to creamy brie, there’s something for everyone. So grab a glass of your favorite ale, settle in, and get ready to indulge in some seriously creamy Welsh rarebit goodness!
Classic Welsh Rarebit with Worcestershire Sauce
A rich and creamy cheese sauce infused with the savory flavors of Worcestershire sauce, served over toasted bread – a comforting twist on a classic British dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work best)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups whole milk
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add flour and whisk until smooth; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
7. Butter bread slices on both sides and place on a baking sheet.
8. Pour cheese sauce over bread, spreading evenly.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Beer-Infused Welsh Rarebit with Sharp Cheddar
Transform a classic Welsh rarebit into a savory delight infused with beer and sharp cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup beer (IPA or pale ale work well)
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the broiler.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add beer, whisking until smooth.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in milk, sharp cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the mixture over toasted bread (e.g., sourdough or baguette) and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Bacon and Welsh Rarebit Melt
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this rich and indulgent twist on a classic comfort food. Smoky bacon, melted cheddar, and a velvety Welsh rarebit sauce come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 4 oz smoked bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup Welsh rarebit sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with diced bacon, grated cheddar cheese, and Welsh rarebit sauce.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Ale Welsh Rarebit
Rich flavors meet savory goodness in this twist on the classic Welsh rarebit recipe. Caramelized onions and ale add depth to the traditional cheddar sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup ale (dark or pale, as preferred)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. In a separate saucepan, combine ale, cheese, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat over low heat, whisking until smooth.
4. Add cooked onions to the cheese mixture and stir to combine.
5. Butter bread slices and place on a baking sheet.
6. Spoon the onion-cheese mixture over the bread, dividing evenly among the slices.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Mustard and Gruyère Welsh Rarebit
A twist on the classic Welsh Rarebit recipe, this version adds a spicy kick from mustard and a rich creaminess from Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of toasted bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the mustard and stir until smooth.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking until the mixture is well combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the Gruyère cheese until melted.
6. Season with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Toast the bread slices and spoon the rarebit over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic and Herb Welsh Rarebit on Sourdough
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this rich and savory Welsh Rarebit recipe, perfectly toasted on a crusty sourdough bread. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy evening or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of sourdough bread
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups grated Emmental or Cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each sourdough slice.
3. Place two slices, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with cheddar and Gruyère cheese, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
5. Place remaining slices of bread, butter-side up, on top of filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bread is toasted and cheese is melted.
7. Sprinkle Emmental or Cheddar cheese on top and cook for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Stout and Blue Cheese Welsh Rarebit
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent twist on the classic Welsh rarebit recipe, featuring the bold flavors of stout beer and pungent blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Stilton)
– 1/2 cup stout beer (guinness or similar dark stout works well)
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in stout beer, Worcestershire sauce, and milk or heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and blue cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the rarebit mixture over toasted bread (such as sourdough or baguette) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Tomato and Basil Welsh Rarebit Toast
Elevate your brunch game with this flavorful twist on the classic Welsh rarebit recipe. Fresh tomatoes and basil add a pop of color and a burst of flavor to this creamy, cheesy toast.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the broiler.
2. Butter each slice of bread on one side.
3. Top each slice with a spoonful of diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Place the slices under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove from the oven and top each slice with a dollop of grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Truffle Oil and Aged Cheddar Welsh Rarebit
Elevate the classic Welsh Rarebit with the luxurious addition of truffle oil and aged cheddar. This rich and creamy sauce is perfect for topping toasted bread, vegetables, or even using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated aged cheddar cheese (at least 6 months old)
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add in the grated cheddar cheese, whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in the truffle oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Jalapeño and Pepper Jack Welsh Rarebit
This recipe adds a bold kick to the traditional Welsh Rarebit with the addition of jalapeños and pepper jack cheese. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated pepper jack cheese
– 1-2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat broiler.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in cheddar and pepper jack cheese until melted and smooth. Add sliced jalapeños and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place bread slices under the broiler and toast until golden brown.
6. Spoon the cheese sauce over toasted bread and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple and Cider Welsh Rarebit
Transform your toasted bread into a warm, comforting, and flavorful dish with this easy-to-make Apple and Cider Welsh Rarebit.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup apple cider or juice
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large apple, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Butter the bread slices on one side.
3. Place the bread, buttered side down, in a baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the grated cheese, apple cider or juice, and diced apple.
5. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over the bread slices.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread is toasted.
7. Remove from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pancetta and Sage Welsh Rarebit
This rich and savory twist on a classic Welsh Rarebit recipe combines the deep flavors of pancetta and sage with melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 slices pancetta, diced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the broiler.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add pancetta and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove pancetta from skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave drippings in the skillet.
4. Add chopped sage to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk together milk, mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cool slightly.
6. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine pancetta, sage mixture, and cheese sauce in the skillet. Toss until well coated.
8. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until top is golden brown.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Welsh Rarebit
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, and slightly smoky twist on the classic Welsh rarebit. Roasting red peppers adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with tangy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
4. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the crumbled goat cheese and stir until melted.
5. Add the grated cheddar cheese and milk to the saucepan. Stir until smooth and heated through.
6. Butter the bread slices and place them on a baking sheet. Top each slice with roasted red pepper, then spoon the goat cheese mixture over the peppers.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple-Glazed Welsh Rarebit with Smoked Gouda
This classic British dish gets a boost of flavor with the addition of maple syrup and smoked Gouda cheese. The result is a rich, velvety sauce that’s perfect for serving over toasted bread or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (or Welsh Rarebit mix)
– 1/4 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
2. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and smoked Gouda cheese until melted.
6. Stir in maple syrup and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm over toasted bread or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chive and Cream Cheese Welsh Rarebit
A comforting, creamy twist on the classic Welsh rarebit recipe, featuring the pungency of chives and a rich cream cheese sauce. Perfect for a cozy evening or a brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butter the bread slices on both sides.
3. In a bowl, mix together grated cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and chopped chives.
4. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture onto each bread slice, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Sprinkle the cheese-garlic-chive mixture evenly over the top of each bread slice.
6. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Portobello Mushroom and Thyme Welsh Rarebit
This creamy, cheesy Welsh rarebit is elevated by the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms and the subtle hint of thyme. A perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and mustard. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in grated cheese and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked mushroom mixture and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey-Drizzled Welsh Rarebit with Brie
This sweet and savory take on traditional Welsh rarebit combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the floral notes of honey. Perfect for a cozy evening or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/2 cup grated Brie cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the broiler.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place the bread slices, buttered side down, on a baking sheet.
4. Top each bread slice with a layer of Brie cheese, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
5. Drizzle 1/2 tablespoon of honey over each slice.
6. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Welsh Rarebit
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, and herby twist on a classic Welsh rarebit. The combination of pesto and sun-dried tomatoes adds a bright and savory flavor profile that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of white bread (preferably toasted)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange toasted bread slices in a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the bread, making sure each slice is coated.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with these 18 creamy Welsh rarebit recipes! From classic combinations to unique twists, this collection offers something for everyone. Enjoy the rich flavors of beer-infused and stout-based variations, or try one of the many cheese-centric options featuring sharp cheddar, gruyère, or brie. Add some spice with jalapeño and pepper jack or go sweet with apple and cider. Whether you’re a fan of smoky bacon, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers, there’s a Welsh rarebit recipe to satisfy your cravings.