This creamy Pimento Cheese Dip brings together sharp cheddar, zesty pimentos, and rich cream cheese in just 5 quick minutes. Perfect for game days, potlucks, or casual gatherings, this Southern-inspired spread packs a flavorful punch while keeping preparation effortless.
Each satisfying serving delivers the ideal balance of tangy and savory notes, making it an irresistible companion for crackers, vegetables, or sandwich spreads.
Ingredients Section
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup freshly shredded for best melting results
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup, use full-fat for richer texture
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, ensure it’s properly softened for smooth mixing
- Pimentos: 3 Tablespoons chopped, drained well from jar
- Onion: 2 Tablespoons grated, use fresh for optimal flavor
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper to taste
- For Serving: Your favorite crackers and fresh crisp vegetables
Instructions Section
- Preparation: Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier blending
- Mixing: Combine all ingredients using a hand mixer or food processor until well incorporated and nearly smooth
- Cold Serving Option: Serve immediately with crackers and vegetables, or use as a delicious spread for sandwiches and burgers
- Hot Serving Option: Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to one week
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pimento cheese is super versatile! Spread it thick on toasted bread for an amazing sandwich, or dollop it on your next burger for a Southern twist.
For a party spread, arrange it with buttery crackers and fresh, crisp veggies like celery sticks, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips. When served warm from the oven, it becomes an irresistible dip that’s perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Easy Variations
Want to switch things up? Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also try different cheese combinations – sharp cheddar adds more tang, while mild cheddar keeps things smooth and creamy. For extra texture, mix in some finely chopped pecans. If you’re watching calories, light cream cheese and mayo work great too!
Storage Tips
Keep your pimento cheese fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for up to a week, but the flavors actually get better after a day or two! Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving – this makes it easier to spread and brings out all those yummy flavors. Just remember to give it a quick stir before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
This dip is perfect for making ahead! Mix it up to 3 days before your party or gathering. The extra time lets all those flavors blend together beautifully. If you’re planning to serve it warm, you can prepare the mixture ahead and pop it in the oven just before guests arrive. The smell of warm, melty cheese will welcome everyone right in!
Pimento Cheese Dip
Equipment
- Hand mixer or food processor
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 3 tablespoons pimentos from a jar, chopped
- 2 tablespoons onion grated
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Use a hand mixer or food processor to mix all ingredients until well combined, and almost smooth.
- Serve cold with crackers, vegetables, or spread on a sandwich or burger.
- For hot pimento cheese dip, spread pimento cheese into a small baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes, or until hot.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
