1/4 cup butter OR margarine
1/4 cup flour
2 1/2 cups milk
1 cup beer OR water
2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups (8 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
garlic OR herbed croutons, optional

in a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter; stir in flour. cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. stir in milk, beer, worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. bring to a boil, stirring frequently. reduce heat; simmer 10 minutes. stirring frequently. stir in cheese until melted. serve with croutons if desired.

4 servings