Baked Pimento Cheese Dip

The South is known for its comfort food, and few recipes feel as distinctly Southern as pimento cheese. Also called Carolina caviar or Southern pate, this spread is traditionally made with pimento peppers, cheddar cheese, and mayo. You typically see it made into sandwiches or served with crackers. While I didn’t grow up eating pimento cheese, I’ve grown quite fond of this savory spread over the years. I recently got to thinking that it would be incredible baked up as a hot dip… and boy was I right. This Baked Pimento Cheese Dip is everything I wanted it to be and more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of classic Southern flavors, you’ll adore this Baked Pimento Cheese Dip. It’s creamy, cheesy, and has just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting. The combination of cheeses with pimentos and a hint of cayenne makes it a warm, inviting dish perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. It’s simple to make yet delivers a complex flavor profile that will impress your guests.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 8×8-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or spoon for mixing
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup mayo
• 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 oz shredded colby jack cheese
• ½ cup drained roasted red peppers, chopped
• 2 (4 oz) jars diced pimientos, drained
• 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Chips or crackers for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. Add cream cheese, mayo, cheddar, and colby jack to a large mixing bowl and mix until fully combined.
3. Add red peppers, pimentos, Tabasco, Worcestershire, salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake for 22-24 minutes or until bubbling and golden on top.
5. Serve warm with chips, crackers, or toasted bread.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
• Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
• Keep an eye on the dip as it bakes to prevent burning. It should be golden and bubbly when done.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to experiment with the spice level by adjusting the cayenne pepper and Tabasco sauce amounts. You can also add cooked bacon bits for an extra savory touch or use pepper jack cheese for even more spice.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dip is rich in calcium and protein thanks to the cheese but also contains a moderate amount of calories, so enjoy it in moderation. Exact nutritional values will vary based on the portion size and specific brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving for the best results.

How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I freeze this dip? It’s not recommended to freeze this dip as the texture may change upon thawing.

Conclusion

This Baked Pimento Cheese Dip is a delightful twist on a classic Southern favorite. Its creamy texture and flavorful kick make it a perfect addition to any gathering. I hope you give this recipe a try and share your experiences with me. Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!