Cast Iron Cheesy Beer Bread (Easy Skillet Recipe)

Homemade Cheesy Beer Bread in Cast Iron

If you’re a fan of cozy kitchens, savory bakes, and the smell of hot bread, this cast iron cheesy beer bread is about to become your new favorite. It’s one of those old-fashioned, crowd-pleasing recipes that brings everyone running to the table before it’s even cool enough to slice.

There’s just something magical about baking bread in a cast iron skillet—it comes out with a golden, crisp crust and an impossibly tender, cheesy center. My family always loved when I’d serve this alongside chili, soups, or just with a slather of butter for a quick snack. It’s so easy, you don’t even need yeast or fancy tools—just one bowl, your trusty skillet, and a cold can of beer!

If you’ve never made beer bread before, prepare to be amazed. The beer adds lift and flavor (don’t worry, it doesn’t taste “beery”!), and the cheddar cheese melts into every bite. I bet you’ll be asked for the recipe before the pan is empty!

Why You’ll Love This Cast Iron Cheesy Beer Bread

No Kneading, No Yeast! Quick-mix and bake—ready in under 40 minutes.
Perfect for Beginners: Foolproof, even for first-time bread bakers.
Customizable: Use any cheese or add-ins you like.
Pairs with Anything: Great with chili, stew, or a big pot of soup!

Golden, fluffy cast iron cheesy beer bread cooling on a wooden cutting board – easy skillet beer bread recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons canola oil (for greasing skillet)
2½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons dried parsley
2 tablespoons sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
1½ teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded (or any cheese you like)
1 (12 oz) beer (Michelob Ultra or your favorite)
3 tablespoons butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Skillet Beer Bread

Prep the Skillet:
Pour oil into a 10-inch cast iron skillet. Place skillet in a cold oven, then preheat to 450°F. This helps create a sizzling hot surface for your bread.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, parsley, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt.
Add the Beer:
Pour beer into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. The dough will be thick and sticky—don’t over-mix!
Add the Cheese:
Fold in the shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
Bake:
When the oven is fully preheated, carefully remove the hot skillet (use oven mitts!). Spread the bread batter evenly in the skillet and smooth the top. Pour melted butter over the batter.
Bake Until Golden:
Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Cool & Serve:
Let bread cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Brush with a little more melted butter and a sprinkle of garlic powder if you’re feeling fancy!

Golden cheesy beer bread just out of the oven in a cast iron skillet – fluffy, easy, and full of cheddar cheese

Tips & Variations

Any Beer Works: Use whatever you have on hand—lager, light beer, or even non-alcoholic beer!
Cheese Choices: Swap cheddar for Colby Jack, pepper jack, or even Swiss.
Herby Twist: Try adding fresh chives, dill, or Italian herbs.
Extra Cheesy: Sprinkle a handful of cheese on top before baking for an even more golden, cheesy crust.
Butter Up: Brush with garlic butter right after baking for irresistible flavor.

What to Serve with Cast Iron Cheesy Beer Bread

This bread is amazing with Best Homemade Chili for Burgers and Hotdogs or dunked into Comforting Chicken and Wild Rice Soup.

Storage

Room Temp: Store wrapped or in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freeze: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven.

FAQ

Q: Can I use self-rising flour instead?
A: Yes, just reduce the baking powder to 1 teaspoon and omit the salt.

Q: What’s the best type of beer for beer bread?
A: Light beers (like Michelob Ultra) work great, but darker ales will add more flavor.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use a GF beer.

Let’s Chat!

Do you remember the first time you had homemade beer bread?
Share your favorite pairings, cheesy additions, or secret family twists in the comments! And don’t forget to pin this recipe or share it on Facebook—let’s spread the comfort food love.