This baked pimento cheese dip is creamy, cheesy, and simply irresistible! Made with sharp cheddar cheese, pimento peppers, and a hint of spice, it’s perfect for sharing at parties.
Trust me, once you start dipping, it’s hard to stop! I love serving it warm with crunchy chips or fresh veggies. It’s a crowd-pleaser that always gets smiles! 🧀😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds a bold taste to the dip. If you prefer a milder flavor, use medium cheddar. For a twist, try pepper jack for extra spice.
Cream Cheese: It gives the dip its creamy texture. Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter alternative if you’re looking to reduce fat.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise keeps the dip rich and smooth. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for a healthier option without sacrificing creaminess.
Pimentos: These add a nice color and subtle sweetness. You could swap them with roasted red peppers for a more intense flavor.
Bacon: I love the smokiness it adds! If you want a vegetarian version, you can skip bacon entirely or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Pimento Cheese Dip is Perfectly Creamy?
The key to a creamy pimento cheese dip is properly softening your cream cheese. Make sure it’s at room temperature before mixing. Here’s how:
- Take the cream cheese out of the fridge for about 30 minutes before you start.
- If you’re short on time, you can microwave it for 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to melt it!
- Mix the cream cheese with mayonnaise until smooth before adding other ingredients. This helps create a uniform mixture that’s less likely to clump.
And remember, bake it just long enough so it’s hot and bubbly, but don’t overcook it to keep that creamy dreaminess!
How to Make Baked Pimento Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 4 oz diced pimentos, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon, plus extra for topping
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (for garnish)
- Baguette slices or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s an easy and quick dip to whip up for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps your dip cook evenly.
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a strong spoon to mix until the blend is nice and smooth. This is what makes the dip creamy!
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined so each bite is packed with flavor!
4. Incorporate the Bacon:
Now, gently stir in the cooked and crumbled bacon. Remember to save a little bit of bacon for topping the dip later—this gives it an extra crispy and delicious touch!
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into a small baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks well throughout.
6. Top with Bacon:
Sprinkle the reserved bacon evenly over the top of the dip. This will create a tasty crust as it bakes!
7. Bake the Dip:
Place the dip in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the dip is hot and bubbly and the top is starting to brown. Yum!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions for a pop of color. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices or crunchy crackers.
Your warm, cheesy pimento dip is ready to be enjoyed at parties or cozy gatherings. Dive in and watch it disappear!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly. When you’re ready, spread it in the baking dish and bake it as directed, adding an extra few minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Yes! While sharp cheddar is traditional, feel free to mix it up. A combination of pepper jack and gouda or mozzarella can add unique flavors. Just ensure you use a cheese that melts well for that creamy dip texture!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. You can add a splash of mayonnaise if it seems too dry after reheating.
What Can I Serve With This Dip?
This dip pairs well with a variety of items! Classic options include toasted baguette slices, crackers, and veggie sticks like carrots or celery. You can also serve it with nacho chips or pretzels for a fun twist!
