Description
A warm, creamy baked pimento cheese dip made with sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and diced pimentos. Perfect for parties, holidays, or casual snacking with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 (4 oz) jar diced pimentos, drained well
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Crackers, bread, chips, or vegetables, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, stir together cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Fold in shredded cheddar, pimentos, garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly around the edges.
- Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a lightly golden top.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest texture.
- Adjust cayenne pepper for more or less heat.
- Add cooked bacon or diced jalapeños for variation.
- Serve immediately for best flavor and consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes