If you love cozy, comforting dishes that bring a unique twist to traditional cheese fondue, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Smoked Sausage and Endive Fondue Recipe. It’s a beautiful balance of savory smoked sausage, tender caramelized endives, and a luscious blend of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, all melted into a creamy, dreamy sauce perfect for dipping crusty bread. This recipe turns fondue into a hearty, flavorful meal that feels special but is surprisingly straightforward to make. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just craving something indulgent, this dish hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Smoked Sausage and Endive Fondue Recipe plays a vital role in building the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the smoky richness of the sausage to the subtle bitterness of the endives and the nutty, melty cheeses, these essentials come together to create an unforgettable dish.
- Endives (4, sliced lengthwise): Their slightly bitter and crisp texture softens beautifully when sautéed, balancing the richness of the cheese.
- Smoked sausages (4): Adds smoky depth and a hearty meaty bite that makes this fondue truly satisfying.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Provides the smooth, creamy base that binds everything perfectly.
- Gruyère cheese (1 cup, grated): Known for its sweet, slightly salty flavor, essential for that classic fondue taste.
- Emmental cheese (1 cup, grated): Melts smoothly and adds a subtle nuttiness to the sauce.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing and making the roux, giving a rich, silky mouthfeel.
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the cheese sauce without clumps.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Infuses a fragrant warmth into the dish.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- Freshly grated nutmeg (to taste): A little touch of spice that gives complexity to the fondue.
- Sliced baguette or bread: For dipping, the perfect vessel for soaking up all that cheesy goodness.
How to Make Smoked Sausage and Endive Fondue Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Endives and Garlic
Start off by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced endives and minced garlic, cooking them slowly until the endives become tender and take on a lovely golden hue from gentle caramelization. This process usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg – this little touch elevates the flavors beautifully. Once softened, set the endives aside to rest while you move on to the next steps.
Step 2: Create the Cheese Sauce
This is where the magic truly happens. In a medium saucepan, melt more butter and whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth roux. Let it cook just enough to turn a golden color, which helps eliminate that raw flour taste. Then very slowly, whisk in the heavy cream. Keep stirring so you avoid any lumps and allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Gradually add your grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, stirring until everything melts into a velvety, luscious fondue base. Add salt, pepper, and another sprinkle of nutmeg to taste. This sauce is the heart of your Smoked Sausage and Endive Fondue Recipe.
Step 3: Cook the Smoked Sausages
While your cheese sauce simmers, cook the smoked sausages in a separate skillet over medium heat. Turn them occasionally to achieve a beautiful even browning on all sides, which takes about 7 to 8 minutes. This step intensifies the smoky flavor and adds a satisfying texture that contrasts perfectly with the creamy fondue.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Now for the fun part: transfer the caramelized endives to a fondue pot or a serving dish, pour the warm cheese sauce over them, and arrange the browned smoked sausages on top or alongside. Serve immediately with a basket of sliced baguette or your favorite crusty bread for dipping into the sumptuous sauce. Watching everyone gather around and dip is one of the best dining experiences you can have!
How to Serve Smoked Sausage and Endive Fondue Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives can add a burst of color and a fresh note that cuts through the richness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a few crunchy toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans on top can add an exciting contrast.
Side Dishes
This fondue is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, helping to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables or even some pickled onions on the side provide a nice tang and texture contrast as well.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the fondue in mini cast iron skillets at each place setting for an intimate touch. For a rustic vibe, use a wooden board, layering the components separately and letting guests build their own bites. You can also experiment by swapping the baguette for crunchy crackers, apple slices, or even roasted baby potatoes for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover fondue can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate the sausages from the cheese sauce and endives if possible to maintain texture and flavor when reheating.
Freezing
While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cheese sauce portion (without the sausages and endives) in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help restore the smooth texture. Warm the sausages separately in a skillet or microwave.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this fondue?
Absolutely! While Gruyère and Emmental are traditional and provide that classic fondue flavor, you can mix in cheeses like Comté, Fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a different twist. Just aim for good melting cheeses.
What can I substitute for smoked sausage?
If you don’t have smoked sausage on hand, kielbasa, chorizo, or even a good quality cooked bratwurst work well. You can also try a vegetarian sausage for a meat-free version.
Is it necessary to use nutmeg in the fondue?
Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and complexity that heightens the flavors, but if you’re not a fan or don’t have any, it can be omitted without sacrificing too much. A pinch of paprika or cayenne can offer a different type of warmth.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping when making the sauce?
Make sure to add cheese gradually and keep stirring constantly on low to medium heat. Also, adding cheese off the heat or at low temperature can prevent it from overheating and separating. Using freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.
Can this fondue be made vegan or dairy-free?
To adapt this Smoked Sausage and Endive Fondue Recipe for a vegan or dairy-free diet, try plant-based cheeses that melt well along with coconut or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Substitute smoked sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This Smoked Sausage and Endive Fondue Recipe is a brilliant way to bring something extra special to your table while keeping things cozy and approachable. The balance of smoky, creamy, and slightly bitter ingredients makes every bite a celebration of flavor and comfort. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a new favorite for gatherings or a satisfying solo dinner. Trust me, once you do, you’ll find yourself reaching for that baguette again and again!
Print
Smoked Sausage and Endive Fondue Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Description
This Smoked Sausage and Endive Fondue is a warm, comforting dish perfect for sharing. Tender caramelized endives are combined with a rich, creamy Gruyère and Emmental cheese sauce, accompanied by flavorful smoked sausages. Served with crusty sliced baguette, it’s an ideal blend of savory and cheesy goodness for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or casual meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 endives, sliced lengthwise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Meat
- 4 smoked sausages
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup grated Emmental cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Pantry
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste
Serving
- Sliced baguette or bread for dipping
Instructions
- Sauté Endives and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced endives and minced garlic, sautéing until the endives are softened and slightly caramelized, approximately 8-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden and smooth. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, and simmer for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens. Slowly add the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
- Cook Smoked Sausages: In a separate skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked sausages, turning occasionally, until browned and heated through, about 7-8 minutes.
- Assemble and Serve: Transfer the sautéed endives to a serving dish or fondue pot. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the endives and arrange the cooked smoked sausages on top or alongside. Serve immediately with sliced baguette or bread for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- Use a mix of Gruyère and Emmental for optimal melting and flavor balance in the fondue.
- Ensure the flour is cooked properly to avoid a raw taste in the roux.
- The fondue can be kept warm in a fondue pot or slow cooker if serving over time.
- Endives can be substituted with Belgian endives or escarole if preferred.
