Baked Pimento Cheese Dip: A Creamy, Cheesy Southern-Inspired Appetizer

Baked Pimento Cheese Dip is a warm, creamy, and flavorful appetizer made with rich cheeses, sweet pimentos, creamy dressing ingredients, and a touch of seasoning. Once baked, the mixture becomes irresistibly smooth and bubbly, with a golden cheesy top that makes it perfect for dipping.

Inspired by the classic Southern pimento cheese spread, this baked version takes the traditional recipe to another level by transforming it into a hot party dip. It is ideal for game nights, holiday gatherings, family celebrations, potlucks, or a cozy snack at home.

The best part about this dip is its simplicity. A few basic ingredients come together to create a dish that feels comforting, indulgent, and restaurant-quality.

What Is Pimento Cheese Dip?

Pimento cheese is a popular Southern American spread traditionally made with shredded cheese, pimentos (small sweet red peppers), mayonnaise, and seasonings.

When baked, the ingredients melt together into a warm, creamy dip with a rich cheese flavor, a slight sweetness from the peppers, and a savory kick from the seasonings.

The perfect baked pimento cheese dip should be:

• Creamy and smooth inside
• Slightly golden and bubbly on top
• Cheesy with a rich flavor
• Easy to scoop with crackers, bread, or vegetables

Ingredients

For the Cheese Dip

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Crispy bacon pieces
• Fresh chopped parsley
• Sliced green onions
• Crushed crackers
• A sprinkle of paprika

For Serving

Serve with:

• Crackers
• Toasted baguette slices
• Tortilla chips
• Pretzels
• Celery sticks
• Carrot sticks
• Cucumber slices

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to:

375°F (190°C)

Lightly grease a small baking dish, such as an 8×8 inch dish or a similar-sized oven-safe bowl.

Greasing the dish helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier.

A shallow baking dish works best because it allows more surface area for the cheese to become golden and bubbly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Base

Place the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl.

Using a hand mixer or a spoon, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Softening the cream cheese beforehand is important because cold cream cheese can create lumps and make mixing difficult.

The cream cheese creates the rich, thick texture that holds the dip together.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Ingredients

Add the mayonnaise and sour cream to the cream cheese.

Mix until everything is fully combined and smooth.

The mayonnaise adds richness, while the sour cream gives the dip a slight tang that balances the heaviness of the cheese.

The mixture should look creamy and silky before adding the other ingredients.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese.

Mix gently until the cheese is evenly distributed.

Sharp cheddar provides a strong, classic cheese flavor, while Monterey Jack melts beautifully and creates a smoother texture.

For the best results, shred cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.

Step 5: Add the Pimentos and Seasonings

Drain the pimentos well and add them to the bowl.

Then add:

• Garlic
• Green onions
• Dijon mustard
• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Cayenne pepper (if using)
• Salt and black pepper

Stir everything together until evenly mixed.

The pimentos add small bursts of sweetness and color throughout the dip.

The smoked paprika gives a warm, slightly smoky flavor that makes the cheese taste richer.

Step 6: Transfer the Dip to the Baking Dish

Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Spread the top evenly with a spatula.

If desired, sprinkle extra shredded cheese over the top for an extra golden, cheesy crust.

You can also add bacon pieces or a little paprika before baking for extra flavor.

Please Head On keep  on Reading  (>)