Description
This incredible Ultimate Pimento Cheese Dip is a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy Southern classic made with sharp cheddar, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. Perfect as an appetizer or party dip, it’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, ideal for serving with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Base
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Other Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup pimentos, diced and drained
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated sharp cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese to create a creamy base for the dip.
- Add Mayonnaise: Stir in the mayonnaise thoroughly until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
- Incorporate Pimentos: Gently fold in the diced and drained pimentos, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
- Season the Dip: Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if using, plus salt and black pepper to taste. Mix fully until all seasonings are incorporated.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample the dip and adjust seasoning as needed to suit your personal preference.
- Chill for Flavor: Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
- Serve: Serve chilled with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping, making it an irresistible appetizer for any occasion.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Use sharp cheddar for best flavor contrast with cream cheese.
- Make sure to drain pimentos well to avoid excess moisture in the dip.
- Can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Pairs well with an assortment of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or crunchy vegetables like celery and carrot sticks.
