Homemade Beer Cheese Spread for a Crowd

This recipe for beer cheese spread from an old Southern Living makes a ton.  Don't let that stop you from making it - it will keep in the freezer for a month (in the refrigerator for 2 weeks).

Beer Cheese Spread

1 (2 lb) block sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
1 small onion, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced (or 2 heaping tsp minced garlic from a jar)
1/2 tsp hot sauce
1/4 tsp ground red (cayenne) pepper
1 (12 oz) bottle amber beer at room temperature
salt and pepper to taste

Beat together first 5 ingredients at low speed with a heavy duty electric stand mixer until blended.  Gradually add beer, beating until blended after each addition.  Beat a medium high speed 1 minute or until blended and creamy.  Season dip with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and chill 2 hours.  Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer up to 1 month.