Skip to main content

Welsh Rabbit

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This classic Welsh rarebit is a sophisticated take on the traditional cheese on toast, offering a deep, savoury flavour that far surpasses the simple grilled snack. By creating a rich roux with sharp extra-mature Cheddar, a splash of dark ale, and a hint of mustard, you achieve a velvety sauce that coats the crisp baguette perfectly. It is an enduring British favourite for a reason, providing a satisfying balance of textures and a punchy, salty finish.

As a high-protein vegetarian option, this dish makes for an excellent quick lunch or a comforting supper when served alongside a crisp green salad. The use of a robust porter or ale adds an authentic bitterness that cuts through the richness of the cheese, while the egg yolk ensures a glossy, professional consistency. It is the ultimate homemade comfort food for any day of the week.

In this article:

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Welsh Rabbit

  • 16 (1/3-inch-thick) diagonal baguette slices

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 tablespoon plain flour

  • 120ml porter or ale

  • 60ml whole milk

  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard

  • 1/8 teaspoons black pepper

  • 170g extra-sharp Cheddar, coarsely grated (about 350ml )

  • 1 large egg yolk

How to make Welsh Rabbit

Preheat grill.

Spread one side of bread slices with 2 tablespoons butter (total), then arrange slices, buttered sides up, on a baking sheet. Grill 4 to 6 inches from heat until golden brown, 1 to 4 minutes.

Melt remaining tablespoon butter in a 1-quart heavy saucepan over low heat, then add flour and cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute. Add beer and milk in a stream, whisking, then whisk in mustard, pepper, and cheese. Bring to a simmer over moderately low heat, whisking, then simmer, whisking, until smooth, about 2 minutes.

Remove from heat and immediately whisk in yolk. Serve cheese sauce on toast.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.