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This homemade Pimento Cheese Dip is an easy recipe that brings Southern charm to your table. A creamy blend of sharp cheddar, smooth cream cheese, and tangy pimento peppers creates a mild, flavorful dip perfect for crackers, veggies, or even sandwiches. This versatile classic is ideal for parties, potlucks, or everyday snacking, with flavors that develop beautifully when made ahead.
Why You'll Love This Dip
Pimento cheese is more than just a dip—it's a staple of Southern cuisine. Whether you're hosting a gathering or preparing a quick snack, this spread shines with its creamy texture, bold cheddar flavor, and a hint of Worcestershire depth. Its versatility extends far beyond a dip: use it as a sandwich filling, a topping for burgers, or even a creamy addition to baked dishes.
Ingredients for Pimento Cheese
- Cheese Base:
- 16 oz extra-sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Pimentos and Seasonings:
- 8 oz jar pimento peppers, drained and diced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Optional Add-ins:
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeños
- Extra grated cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base
- In large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until completely smooth. Add mayonnaise and Worcestershire sauce, mixing until well combined.
- Add Seasonings
- Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, salt, and pepper until thoroughly incorporated.
- Incorporate Cheese
- Fold in freshly grated cheddar cheese, ensuring even distribution throughout mixture.
- Add Pimentos
- Gently fold in drained and diced pimento peppers. For spicier version, add optional sriracha or jalapeños.
- Rest and Chill
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Pro Tips for Success
Use room temperature cream cheese for smoothest texture. Grate cheese by hand rather than using pre-shredded for better melding. Pat pimentos thoroughly dry to prevent excess moisture. Let dip sit at room temperature 30 minutes before serving for best spreadability. Adjust seasoning levels after chilling as flavors will intensify.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve with assorted crackers, celery sticks, or carrot strips. Use as spread for sandwiches or burgers. Stuff into cherry tomatoes or jalapeños for appetizers. Spread on bread for grilled cheese sandwiches. Top baked potatoes or mix into twice-baked potatoes. Perfect for party platters alongside other dips and spreads.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 1 week. Prepare 1-2 days ahead for best flavor development. Do not freeze as texture will become grainy. Bring to room temperature before serving for best consistency. For parties, divide into smaller portions to keep some refrigerated until needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why does the dip need to come to room temperature?
- The dip hardens when chilled, so letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes helps it return to a softer, more spreadable consistency.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make this dip ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator overnight. The flavors will actually develop more over time.
- → What's the best way to serve this?
- It's versatile - serve as a dip with crackers and vegetables, or use as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. Some people even use it to top burgers.
- → How long will this keep?
- Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, pimento cheese will keep for about a week.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness?
- Yes, add cayenne pepper for more heat, or reduce/omit the sriracha for a milder version. The recipe as written is relatively mild.