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pimento cheese dip on the table

Pimento Cheese Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 3 Cups
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Vegetarian

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups  sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup  mild cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup  mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup  cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup  diced pimentos drained
  • 1/2 teaspoon  garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon  onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon  cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Shred both sharp and mild cheddar cheese using a box grater. Freshly shredded cheese melts and blends better than pre-packaged varieties. Drain the pimentos and dice them finely if needed.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and softened cream cheese. Stir until smooth and well blended. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using. You can also add 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce if you want. 
  3. Gradually fold in the shredded cheese, ensuring every piece gets coated with the creamy mixture. Add the diced pimentos and stir gently. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least one hour. This step allows the flavors to meld together, creating a richer taste. However, if time is short, serving immediately still delivers delicious results.
  5. Take the pimento cheese out of the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before serving. Pair it with crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted bread.

Notes

  • Add a smoky touch: Mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth.
  • Make it extra creamy: Increase the cream cheese for a smoother texture.
  • Turn up the heat: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Enhance the texture: Stir in crispy bacon bits or chopped pecans for crunch.