When comfort meets bold flavor, magic happens in the kitchen. And today, that magic is delivered in the form of a warm, creamy, garlic-packed pub cheese spread made even more irresistible with Watkins’ powerful lineup of organic spices. This easy vegetarian appetizer is perfect for parties, date nights, or any snack emergency that calls for something a little extra.

Oh, and did we mention there’s a cocktail involved? Pair your garlicky cheese goodness with a spicy lemon gin fizz to round out the flavor explosion. Let’s dive into this dreamy duo!

Why You’ll Love This Warm Garlic Pub Cheese Spread

This spread is:

• Creamy and melty

• Boldly flavored with garlic and cheddar

• Spiced to perfection with Watkins Organic Cayenne Pepper

• Totally vegetarian

• Ideal for spreading on bread, crackers, or even raw veggies

And it’s ready in minutes! That’s what we call a hosting win.

Key Ingredients: All About That Watkins Flavor

What takes this pub cheese over the top? Watkins, baby. We’re talking:

• Watkins Organic Garlic Powder: Deep, robust garlic flavor

• Watkins Organic Cayenne Pepper: A touch of heat

• Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt: Clean, balanced saltiness

• Watkins Organic Ground Black Pepper: Earthy and sharp to finish

These powerhouse seasonings bring out the best in the creamy cheese base. No bland dips here.

Warm Garlic Pub Cheese Spread Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4–6 as an appetizer

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)

• 1–2 tsp Watkins Organic Garlic Powder

• 1/4 tsp Watkins Organic Cayenne Pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 tsp Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt

• 1/4 tsp Watkins Organic Ground Black Pepper

• 1–2 tbsp milk or cream (for smooth blending)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp chopped chives or green onions

• 1 tsp lemon juice or a splash of beer for tang

Directions:

1. In a saucepan over low heat, combine cream cheese and a splash of milk. Stir until smooth.

2. Add the cheddar cheese and stir constantly until it is melted and creamy.

3. Stir in garlic powder, cayenne, sea salt, and black pepper.

4. Taste and adjust seasonings — make it yours!

5. Transfer to a ramekin or small bowl and serve warm, accompanied by toasted bread or crackers.

Cocktail Pairing: Spicy Lemon Gin Fizz

If cheese had a soulmate, this cocktail might be it. Citrusy, effervescent, and with a sneaky cayenne kick, it complements the spread beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin (or vodka)

• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• Pinch of Watkins Organic Cayenne Pepper

• Club soda, to top

• Garnish: Lemon wheel, rosemary sprig (optional)

Directions:

1. Shake gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and cayenne with ice.

2. Strain into a glass filled with ice.

3. Top with club soda.

4. Garnish and sip!

Tips for Hosting With This Pub Cheese

• Double the recipe for larger gatherings — it disappears fast!

• Serve with variety: toasted baguette slices, hearty crackers, raw veggies.

• Keep it warm in a mini crock or warming dish.

• Make ahead: Prep and store in the fridge, then reheat gently.

Final Thoughts: A Flavor-Packed Winner

This warm garlic pub cheese spread is what snack dreams are made of — indulgent, easy, and bursting with bold flavor thanks to Watkins Organic Garlic Powder, Cayenne Pepper, Sea Salt, and Ground Black Pepper. Whether you’re whipping it up for guests or treating yourself to something decadent, it’s a guaranteed hit.

And with that zesty Spicy Lemon Gin Fizz on the side? You’ve just unlocked next-level appetizer status.

So go on, light the candles, pour the fizz, and get dippin’! 🍸🧄🧀

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links through which, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.