If you are searching for a truly irresistible crowd-pleaser, then this Baked Pimiento Cheese Dip Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This Southern-inspired classic brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with just the right zing of pimientos all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Whether it’s a game day snack, a party appetizer, or a cozy treat for your family, this dip delivers comforting flavors with an unbeatable creamy texture that will have everyone reaching for more. Trust me, once you make this dip, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples, each playing a crucial part in creating a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in the dip. From the sharp cheddar’s boldness to the smooth cream cheese base, every element brings something special to the table.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides bold flavor and a melty, gooey texture that’s key for that satisfying bite.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a creamy meltiness and subtle richness to balance the sharp cheddar.
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (softened): Creates the smooth, luscious foundation every great dip needs.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Enhances creaminess and helps bind all ingredients smoothly together.
- 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimientos (drained): Brings a pop of color and a mild, sweet pepper flavor that’s signature to this recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and a subtle earthy aroma that complements the cheeses.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Infuses a savory note without overpowering the blend.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Lends just a hint of heat to brighten the flavor profile.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors perfectly.
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch when serving.
How to Make Baked Pimiento Cheese Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and mix the base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), which allows it to reach an even temperature for perfect baking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you like a little spice. Mixing this base thoroughly until smooth sets the perfect creamy canvas to hold the cheeses and diced pimientos seamlessly together.
Step 2: Add cheese and pimientos
Next, fold in the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses along with the drained diced pimientos. The combination of these cheeses ensures your dip will be wonderfully gooey yet flavorful once baked, and the pimientos add bursts of sweetness and color. Taste the mixture and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. This step is crucial for building the dip’s signature Southern charm.
Step 3: Bake to bubbling, golden perfection
Transfer your cheesy mixture to a small baking dish or an oven-safe skillet, smoothing it out evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until you see the dip bubbling around the edges and the top is lightly golden. This transformation from creamy mix to hot, bubbly dip is where the magic truly happens, making it irresistible.
Step 4: Garnish and rest before serving
Once out of the oven, let your dip cool for a few minutes to thicken slightly—it will still be delightfully warm but easier to scoop. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley to add a fresh note and a splash of green that makes it as pretty as it is delicious.
How to Serve Baked Pimiento Cheese Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped green onions or parsley on top just before serving to add a pop of color and a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the rich cheeses beautifully. A drizzle of a smoky paprika or a few sliced jalapeños could also jazz up the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with an assortment of dippers. Crisp crackers and toasted baguette slices provide the perfect crunch, while fresh vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, and bell peppers offer a refreshing contrast. For a heartier snack, warm pita chips or pretzel bites are fantastic options too.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the dip right in the baking dish to keep things casual and rustic, letting everyone dig right in. Alternatively, for a more elegant spread, scoop the dip into a hollowed-out bread bowl. You could also portion it into individual mini ramekins for personalized servings at gatherings or parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool the leftover dip completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep nicely in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, warming it gently will bring back that delightful gooey texture.
Freezing
This Baked Pimiento Cheese Dip Recipe also freezes well. Just store the dip in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and keep it frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a microwave-safe dish at 50% power in short intervals, stirring intermittently, or warm it gently in a 300°F oven until heated through and bubbly again. Avoid overheating to preserve that creamy texture and prevent the cheese from separating.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in this Baked Pimiento Cheese Dip Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic, feel free to experiment with cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or smoked gouda for a deeper flavor. Just keep a good balance of meltability and taste.
Is it possible to make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated before baking. This is a great time-saver if you’re hosting, as you just need to bake it fresh before serving.
How spicy is this dip?
The recipe includes a small amount of cayenne pepper which is optional. You can omit it if you prefer a mild dip or add a pinch or two more if you like more heat. The pimientos themselves are mild and add sweetness rather than spice.
What are the best dippers for this cheesy delight?
Classic options like crackers, toasted baguette slices, fresh veggies, pita chips, and soft pretzels all complement the creamy dip beautifully. Choose your favorites or mix and match to keep things fun.
Can this dip be made vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on cheese and cream cheese, so it isn’t naturally vegan or dairy-free. However, you can experiment with plant-based cream cheeses and vegan shredded cheeses to create a similar flavor, though the texture and taste will differ.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Pimiento Cheese Dip Recipe truly embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality and comfort food at its best. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor in each warm, golden bite. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and watch it become a staple in your own kitchen. Whether for casual snacking or special occasions, this dip will bring people together and make any moment a little more delicious.
Print
Baked Pimiento Cheese Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Pimiento Cheese Dip is a creamy, cheesy Southern classic that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. Featuring a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses combined with cream cheese, mayonnaise, and flavorful diced pimientos, this warm dip is baked to bubbly perfection and served with crackers or fresh veggies for an irresistible appetizer.
Ingredients
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
Other Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimientos, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the dip.
- Mix the base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you choose to use it. Stir these together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add cheeses and pimientos: Gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, and drained diced pimientos. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Season the dip: Add salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring the dip has a balanced savory flavor.
- Transfer and spread: Spoon the mixture into a small baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Spread it evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Bake the dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and has a lightly golden top.
- Cool and garnish: Remove from the oven and let the dip cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired to add freshness and color.
- Serve: Serve the warm dip with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute different cheeses such as pepper jack or smoked gouda for extra flavor variations.
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving to save time.
