Description
This Best Ever Pimento Cheese Dip is incredibly creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly addictive. Made with a blend of sharp and mild cheddar cheeses, cream cheese, and a medley of flavorful seasonings, this dip is perfect for parties, snacks, or as a spread. It’s quick to prepare and can be customized with optional heat additions like jalapeños or hot sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 6 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat works best)
Cheese
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
Flavorings
- ½ cup diced pimentos (drained well)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt (to taste)
Optional Additions
- 1–2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños (finely chopped)
- A pinch of cayenne for heat
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese and mayonnaise: Add the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise to a mixing bowl. Stir until completely smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Incorporate cheddar cheeses: Gently fold in the freshly grated sharp and mild cheddar cheeses until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Add seasonings and pimentos: Mix in the diced pimentos, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- Combine thoroughly: Stir everything gently until the mixture is fully combined, creamy yet with a bit of texture from the cheese and pimentos.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the dip and add salt or optional heat ingredients (jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce) as desired.
- Chill: Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop depth before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, use freshly grated cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded.
- Letting the dip chill for longer intensifies its flavor.
- Adjust the heat levels with jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce according to your preference.
- This dip pairs perfectly with crackers, celery sticks, or toasted bread.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
