Boilermaker
The quintessential American dive bar classic. This two-ingredient drink combines a crisp, cold lager with a smooth shot of American whiskey for a simple yet satisfying experience. No frills, no fuss, just a timeless pairing.
For 4 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Chill your pint glasses and shot glasses in the freezer for at least 15 minutes for an extra cold drink.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Pour 1.5 oz (45 ml) of American whiskey into each of the four chilled shot glasses.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Pour one 12 oz (355 ml) bottle of chilled lager beer into each of the four chilled pint glasses. Fill about three-quarters full to avoid overflow if you choose to drop the shot.
- 4
Serve each pint of beer with a shot of whiskey on the side
- a.Instruct guests to either sip them alternately or carefully drop the shot glass into the beer and drink immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic experience, use a classic American lager like Pabst Blue Ribbon, Miller High Life, or Budweiser.
- 2A smooth, no-frills bourbon like Jim Beam or a rye like Old Overholt are perfect choices and stay true to the drink's working-class roots.
- 3Always ensure both the beer and the whiskey are well-chilled before serving.
- 4If you drop the shot into the beer (a method called a 'Depth Charge'), use a sturdy, thick-walled pint glass (like a shaker pint) to prevent chipping.
- 5The traditional and arguably more flavorful way to enjoy a Boilermaker is to sip them side-by-side, allowing you to appreciate the distinct character of both the beer and the whiskey.
Adapt it for your goals.
Beer Swap
While lager is classic, you can experiment with other beer styles. A stout with a bourbon creates a rich, roasty combination, while an IPA can offer a hoppy contrast to the whiskey.
Spirit SwapSpirit Swap
Use Irish whiskey for an 'Irish Boilermaker', tequila for a 'Mexican Boilermaker', or even a Jägermeister for a 'Jägerbomb' style drink.
The ChaserThe Chaser
Reverse the order: take the shot of whiskey first and immediately follow it with a long sip of beer to 'chase' it. This is another common way to enjoy the pairing.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Stress Relief
In moderation, enjoying a drink like a Boilermaker can be a ritual that helps signal the end of a workday, promoting relaxation and helping to reduce stress.
Social Connection
This drink is often enjoyed in a social setting, which can foster conversation and connection with others, contributing to overall mental well-being.
Frequently asked questions
A typical Boilermaker, made with a 12 oz lager and a 1.5 oz shot of 80-proof whiskey, contains approximately 250-270 calories.