You can use Elixir with Docker by creating a Dockerfile to define your application's environment. Use multi-stage builds to optimize the image size and ensure proper dependencies are included.

Using Elixir with Docker streamlines the development and deployment process by providing a consistent environment across different stages of your application lifecycle. To get started, create a Dockerfile in your project directory that specifies the base image, dependencies, and build steps required to run your Elixir application. For example, you might begin with an Erlang or Elixir base image, then install your application dependencies using mix deps.get. Utilizing multi-stage builds can significantly optimize your image size by separating the build environment from the runtime environment. In the first stage, you compile your application and its dependencies, while the second stage only includes the necessary binaries and libraries for running the application. This results in a lean production image that includes only what is needed. Once your Dockerfile is set up, you can build your image with the docker build command and run it using docker run, ensuring to map ports and environment variables as needed. Additionally, consider using Docker Compose to define and manage multi-container applications, such as separating your Elixir app from a database service. By incorporating Docker into your Elixir workflow, you can enhance the consistency, scalability, and portability of your applications.