This warm and cheesy baked pimento dip is a crowd-pleaser! It’s creamy, with a bit of a kick from the pimentos and a touch of garlic, perfect for spreading on crackers or bread.
Whenever I make this dip, my friends can’t get enough. It’s funny how something so simple can make you the life of the party! Just pop it in the oven, and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This is the star of the dip! I always use sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use medium cheddar or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives the dip its creamy texture. For a lighter option, try using low-fat cream cheese or Neufchâtel cheese. You can also blend in some Greek yogurt for added creaminess and a bit of tang!
Mayonnaise: This adds richness. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try using Greek yogurt instead. It’ll give you a nice creamy feel without the extra calories.
Pimentos: These add the unique flavor! If you can’t find pimentos, try jarred roasted red peppers chopped fine for a similar effect.
Spices: Cayenne adds heat; adjust based on your heat preference. If you don’t have cayenne, a pinch of chili powder can work too. Smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky flavor, but regular paprika is just fine if you don’t have it.
How Can I Make My Dip Creamy and Smooth?
Getting the right creamy texture is key to a great baked pimento cheese dip. Start by ensuring your cream cheese is softened. This helps it blend easily without lumps.
- Mix the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth before adding any other ingredients.
- Toss in the shredded cheese gradually. Mixing each component helps maintain a nice texture.
- Using a hand mixer can help achieve an even creamier consistency if you’re up for it!
Remember not to overbake the dip. You want it bubbly and warm but not dried out. Enjoy your dip with some crispy bread or crunchy crackers!
Baked Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dip Components:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup diced pimentos, drained
- 1 tablespoon minced onion or onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or hot sauce (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chopped pimentos
Serving Suggestions:
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes before you can dig into this cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the dip. This will ensure your dip bakes evenly and gets bubbly!
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend until it’s nice and smooth. You want a creamy texture without lumps, so mix well!
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Now it’s time to spice things up! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, minced onion (or onion powder), garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Make sure everything is combined thoroughly for a burst of flavor in every bite!
4. Spice It Up!
If you like a bit of heat, this is the moment to add some cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. Mix it in to get that perfect zesty flavor that adds a kick to your dip!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the cheesy mixture into an oven-safe baking dish and spread it out evenly. Make sure it’s in an even layer, so it cooks nicely!
6. Bake It:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the dip to be hot and bubbly with a lightly browned top. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overbake!
7. Garnish & Serve:
Once it’s done, carefully take the dip out of the oven. Let it cool slightly, then sprinkle with fresh parsley and some extra chopped pimentos for a pop of color and extra flavor!
8. Enjoy!
Serve the dip immediately alongside toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers. Dive in while it’s still warm and enjoy the creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy goodness of your baked pimento cheese dip!
This dip is perfect for parties or a cozy night in! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Replace the Sharp Cheddar Cheese with Another Type?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds great flavor, you can use medium cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for a milder taste. Just keep the proportions the same for the best texture.
Is It Possible to Make This Dip Spicier?
Yes, if you like more heat, you can add additional cayenne pepper or hot sauce. You could also include some diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can prepare the dip a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven to heat it through, adding a few extra minutes to bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating without drying it out.
