This warm Baked Pimento Cheese Dip is cheesy, creamy, and oh-so-delicious. It’s packed with flavors from pimentos and melty cheese, making it a perfect party treat!
Honestly, it’s hard to resist this dip! I like to serve it with crispy crackers or fresh veggies. Just be ready to share… or not! 😉
Making it is a breeze—I just mix everything together, bake it until bubbly, and enjoy! It’s a crowd-pleaser every time, and I always go back for more!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great tangy flavor. If you prefer, try using Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses like Gouda for a different taste.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the dip. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese works too!
Mayonnaise: It helps keep the dip creamy. You can substitute it with plain yogurt or sour cream for a lighter twist.
Pimentos: The star of the dish! If you can’t find pimentos, roasted red peppers work nicely as a substitute.
Green Onions: They add freshness. You might also use chives or finely chopped red onions if you have them on hand.
How Do I Make Sure My Dip is Creamy and Smooth?
Creating a smooth dip starts with the right mixing technique. When combining the cream cheese and mayonnaise, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature—it makes it easier to mix. Use a mixer or a sturdy spatula to blend until creamy before adding other ingredients.
- Combine cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Fold in the rest of the ingredients gently to maintain fluffiness.
- Bake until the top is golden to enhance flavor and texture. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
Baked Pimento Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 ounces diced pimentos, drained
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Baked Pimento Cheese Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake, giving you a total of about 35 minutes. A quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for gatherings or snack time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the dip cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden top.
2. Mix Your Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to blend them together until the mixture is nice and smooth. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy dip!
3. Combine the Flavorful Ingredients:
Once your cream cheese and mayo are smooth, stir in shredded cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, chopped green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Bake the Dip:
Transfer the mixture to a greased or ovenproof dish. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks uniformly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the top to be golden brown and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color. Serve it warm with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh veggie sticks. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Cheeses in This Dip?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even pepper jack for a kick. Just make sure to maintain the total amount of cheese similar for best consistency.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture. You could also substitute part of the cheddar with pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist!
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes and then bake as directed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
