Here’s a classic, crowd-pleasing Baked Pimento Cheese Dip—warm, creamy, and perfect with crackers or bread.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 (4 oz) jar pimentos, drained and chopped
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1–2 tbsp chopped pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Fold in cheddar cheese, pimentos, garlic, onion powder, cayenne, and pepper. Add optional heat if using.
- Transfer mixture to a small baking dish (8×8 or similar).
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve With
- Buttery crackers or pretzel thins
- Toasted baguette slices
- Celery sticks or bell pepper strips
Easy Variations
- Extra Cheesy: Add ½ cup Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
- Smoky: Mix in ½ tsp smoked paprika.
- Southern Style: Stir in 1 tsp Dijon mustard.
- Crunchy Top: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top before baking.
If you want, I can also give you a slow-cooker version, a lighter option, or a make-ahead party tip.
