EASY CHEESY FONDUE

1 tbsp butter

1/4 cup finely chopped sweet onion
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 tbsp all-purpose or whole-wheat flour
3/4 cup low-fat milk
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 small pkg (3-oz) cream cheese, cut into small pieces
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
dash of ground red pepper
4 to 6 (depends on your heat quotient) drops hot sauce
Assorted fresh vegetables, crusty breads sticks or whole-grain crackers for dipping

In a slow cooker or crock-pot combine the butter, onion, garlic, flour, milk, all cheeses, red pepper, and hot sauce; stir to combine well.  Place lid on cooker and cook on low setting for 2 to 3 hours, stirring a couple of times during the cooking process.  Fondue is done when the cheeses are melted and smooth.  Increase the temperature to high and cook another 1 to 1 1/2-hours or until heated through. 

To serve, place fondue in a warmed bowl and serve with the vegetables, bread sticks, or crackers.

 File photo of this recipe.