Baked Pimento Cheese Dip

The Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Baked Pimento Cheese Dip, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, drained
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Baked Pimento Cheese Dip:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish (8×8 inch or similar size) with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, and mayonnaise. Stir until well combined. Add the diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the pimento cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly with a golden brown top. If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil the dip for 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or chives if desired. Serve warm with your choice of dippers.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make Baked Pimento Cheese Dip, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or mixing spoon
• 8×8 inch baking dish (or similar size)
• Grater (if shredding cheese yourself)

Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations

This recipe is easy to customize and adapt to your taste. Here are some tips and variations:

• Add Extra Flavor: For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the cheese mixture.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Pepper Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese for a tangy twist.
• Make it Spicy: If you like your dips with a kick, add more cayenne pepper, or mix in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
• Use Store-Bought Pimento Cheese: If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made pimento cheese from the store as a base. Simply mix it with the cream cheese and other seasonings before baking.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover Baked Pimento Cheese Dip, here’s how to store it:

• Refrigeration: Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm before serving again.
• Freezing: This dip can be frozen before baking. Prepare the dip and transfer it to the baking dish, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Food and Drink Pairings

Baked Pimento Cheese Dip is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of dippers and beverages:

• Dippers: Serve with crackers, tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, and bell peppers. For a Southern twist, try serving it with fried green tomatoes or pork rinds.
• Drink Pairings: This rich and cheesy dip pairs well with a cold beer, a glass of chilled white wine, or a refreshing cocktail like a margarita or mojito. For non-alcoholic options, try sweet tea or lemonade.