Cheesy Bacon Fondue

While growing up, it was always a TRADITION to have fondue on Christmas Eve with my grandparents. As we all sat in a circle around the fondue pot, we'd take turns dipping big cubes of savory breads into the cheese. If somebody dropped a piece of bread in the pot, they'd have to KISS the person sitting to his or her left, or at least say something NICE about that person. It was a fun tradition, and one that makes my mouth WATER to this day. (P.S. This recipe also appears in my upcoming book, 101 Things To Do With Cheese!)

Cheesy Bacon Fondue
5 slices bacon, chopped
1 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, chopped
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup, condensed
1 cup milk
5 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dry mustard

Fry bacon until crisp. Add onion and garlic and saute until tender. Stir in condensed soup and milk and whisk until smooth. Add the cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and dry mustard. Blend thoroughly and keep warm in a fondue pot or slow cooker. Serve with French bread cubes. Makes 12 to 14 servings.

TIP: Try substituting different cheeses for a whole new range of flavors!