This Irish Stout & Cheddar Toastie is the ultimate comfort-food upgrade to classic cheese on toast. A rich, velvety cheddar sauce—enhanced with a splash of Irish stout, a hint of mustard, and Worcestershire sauce—is spooned generously over toasted bread and grilled until bubbling and golden. Finished with fresh herbs for a touch of brightness, this indulgent toastie delivers deep savoury flavour and irresistible cheesy goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 thick slices crusty bread or soda bread
• 25 g butter
• 1 tbsp plain flour
• 100 ml milk
• 1 tsp Dijon or wholegrain mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp stout or ale, optional
• 125 g mature Irish cheddar, grated
• salt and black pepper
• a pinch of cayenne or paprika, optional
• chopped chives or parsley, for garnish

Method

1. Toast the bread
   Lightly toast the bread on both sides and set it on a baking tray.
2. Make the sauce
   Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
3. Add the liquid
   Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Stir in the mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and stout if using.
4. Add the cheese
   Lower the heat and stir in most of the cheddar, reserving a small handful for the top. Stir until melted and thick. Season with black pepper and a little salt if needed.
5. Top the bread
   Spoon the cheese mixture generously over the toasted bread. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar on top.
6. Grill
   Put under a hot grill for 2 to 4 minutes until bubbling and golden.
7. Finish
   Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and serve straight away.