Creamy Southern Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe: Party-Perfect Joy

Southern kitchens have long celebrated this creamy pimento cheese dip as a cherished culinary treasure.

Comfort and nostalgia blend seamlessly in every spoonful of this classic spread.

Sharp cheddar melts into smooth cream cheese, creating a velvety texture that beckons hungry guests.

Peppers add a delightful kick, transforming an ordinary appetizer into something extraordinary.

Crisp vegetable sticks or toasted bread become irresistible companions to this zesty mixture.

Quick and simple ingredients come together in minutes, making this dip a perfect last-minute crowd-pleaser.

You’ll want to savor every bite of this Southern comfort classic.

Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe Details

• The perfect blend of sharp cheddar, tangy cream cheese, and zesty pimentos creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Enjoy as a quick appetizer, party dip, or game day favorite that pairs perfectly with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables for a crowd-pleasing treat.
• Prepare in advance and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator, making it an ideal stress-free option for spontaneous gatherings or last-minute entertaining.

Ingredients for Pimento Cheese Dip

• Cream Cheese: A smooth and rich base that provides creamy texture to the dip.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that adds bold flavor and classic cheese taste.
• Pimentos: Sweet red peppers that bring bright color and mild pepper flavor.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Aromatic spices that enhance the overall savory profile.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and elevate the cheese flavors.
• Cayenne Pepper: Optional spice that adds a subtle heat kick to the dip.

• Mayonnaise: Creamy condiment that helps blend and smooth out the cheese mixture.

How to Prepare Pimento Cheese Dip

Step 1: Blend Creamy Cheese Mixture

Grab a medium mixing bowl and toss in softened cream cheese.

Add shredded cheddar cheese to create a rich, tangy base.

Stir in creamy mayonnaise and vibrant chopped pimentos.

Use a spatula or whisk to combine all ingredients until they form a smooth, dreamy mixture.

Step 2: Spark Up the Flavor

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk everything together until the seasonings are completely incorporated, creating a bold and exciting dip that’ll make taste buds dance.

Step 3: Chill and Let Flavors Mingle

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.

Pop it in the refrigerator and let the flavors get to know each other for at least an hour.

This resting time allows the seasonings to blend and intensify, making your dip even more delicious.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Pull out your chilled dip and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

• Crispy crackers
• Crunchy potato chips
• Fresh vegetable sticks
• Toasted bread slices

Scoop, dip, and savor the creamy, zesty goodness of your homemade pimento cheese dip!

Tips for Perfect Pimento Cheese Dip

• Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure smooth, lump-free blending.
• Adjust cayenne pepper to match your heat preference, starting with a pinch and gradually increasing for desired kick.
• Use freshly shredded cheddar instead of pre-shredded for better melting and richer flavor texture.
• Store in an airtight container up to 5 days, allowing flavors to develop and intensify in the refrigerator.
• Rotate between cold and room temperature serving to discover which temperature brings out the most delicious taste profile.

Storing and Reheating Pimento Cheese Dip

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep the dip chilled at the back of the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent flavor loss.
• Not recommended due to mayo and cream cheese separation, which can make the texture grainy and unappetizing when thawed.
• Warm gently in 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval to prevent uneven heating. Stop when the dip reaches room temperature.
• Let the dip sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften and enhance its creamy texture. Consume within 2 hours for food safety.

Pairing Ideas for Pimento Cheese Dip

• Pair Spicy Craft Beer: Choose a hoppy IPA or pale ale to complement the creamy, tangy pimento cheese dip, cutting through its richness with crisp carbonation and bitter notes.
• Match Southern-Style Appetizers: Serve alongside buttermilk biscuits, fried green tomatoes, or deviled eggs to create a classic Southern-inspired spread that highlights the dip's regional charm.
• Select Fresh Veggie Companions: Arrange crisp cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, celery sticks, and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing, crunchy contrast to the rich, creamy cheese mixture.
• Embrace Rustic Charcuterie Elements: Add smoked salami, prosciutto, or country ham to create delightful flavor combinations that enhance the dip's savory profile and provide textural variety.

Variations on Pimento Cheese Dip

• Vegan Pimento Cheese: Swap cream cheese and cheddar with cashew-based vegan cheese alternatives, using nutritional yeast for extra flavor and plant-based mayo.
• Low-Sodium Version: Eliminate added salt, use reduced-sodium cheese varieties, and replace traditional mayo with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
• Spicy Jalapeño Kick: Add finely diced fresh jalapeños or increase cayenne pepper for those who love extra heat, creating a zestier dip experience.
• Herb-Infused Edition: Mix in fresh chopped herbs like chives, dill, or parsley to elevate the flavor profile and add a fresh, aromatic dimension.

FAQs

• What are pimentos and where do they come from?

Pimentos are sweet, bright red peppers originally from Spain, typically smaller and sweeter than regular red bell peppers. They’re often sold diced in small jars and add a mild, slightly tangy flavor to dishes.

• Can I make pimento cheese dip without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or cream cheese for a different texture and taste. Each alternative will slightly change the dip’s richness and tanginess.

• How long can pimento cheese dip stay fresh in the refrigerator?

Pimento cheese dip can typically stay fresh for 5-7 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.

• Is pimento cheese dip a Southern United States specialty?

Yes, pimento cheese is deeply rooted in Southern cuisine and is often called the “caviar of the South.” It’s a beloved staple at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings throughout the Southern states.

Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe

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4.9 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy Southern Pimento Cheese Dip whisks cheese lovers into a nostalgic culinary journey through comfort food classics. Smooth cheddar, zesty peppers, and tangy mayo blend into an irresistible spread you’ll crave at every gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Cheese Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened

Seasoning and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Binding and Additional Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup chopped pimentos, drained

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Instructions

1. In a spacious mixing vessel, thoroughly blend cream cheese, sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and vibrant pimentos until achieving a uniform consistency.
2. Introduce aromatic garlic powder, zesty onion powder, fiery cayenne pepper, and seasoning essentials, whisking meticulously to create a harmonious mixture.
3. Transfer the dip into a sealed container, allowing flavors to meld and intensify during a minimum 60-minute refrigeration period.
4. Accompany the chilled spread with an array of crisp crackers, rustic tortilla chips, or garden-fresh vegetable crudités for an irresistible appetizer experience.

Notes

• Cream cheese temperature matters hugely; ensure it’s genuinely softened at room temperature for smooth, creamy consistency without lumps.
• Experiment with cheese varieties like sharp white cheddar or smoked gouda to customize flavor profile and add unexpected depth.
• For lower-fat version, substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise and use reduced-fat cream cheese without sacrificing taste.
• Elevate presentation by garnishing with chopped chives, cracked black pepper, or a sprinkle of paprika before serving to add visual appeal and extra flavor dimension.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg