The first time I tasted truly good pimento cheese, it was at a small Southern cafe, and I was instantly hooked. It wasn’t just cheese and pimentos; it was a symphony of creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy flavors that made me realize I’d been missing out. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to explore every delicious permutation of this Southern staple. This article isn’t just about making a basic pimento cheese spread; it’s about unlocking a world of possibilities, showcasing 10 incredible ways to transform that beloved spread into show-stopping dips. Get ready to elevate your snack game, because once you dive into these variations, your pimento cheese experience will never be the same.
Reasons to try it
Why just stick to one way of enjoying pimento cheese when you can have ten? This collection of pimento cheese dips isn’t just about versatility; it’s about unlocking maximum flavor and convenience. Whether you’re hosting a last-minute gathering, looking for a delicious potluck contribution, or simply want to spice up your weeknight munchies, these recipes offer something for everyone. They’re fantastic because pimento cheese itself is a crowd-pleaser – it’s rich, savory, and inherently comforting. By varying the add-ins and preparations, we’re taking that beloved base and turning it into everything from a smoky BBQ companion to a zesty fiesta dip. Plus, most of these come together relatively quickly, meaning less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying deliciousness.
> “I thought I knew pimento cheese, but these dip ideas blew me away! So many delicious ways to use my favorite spread.” – A Happy Home Cook
Preparing Your Pimento Cheese Dips
Before we dive into the specific ingredients for each of the 10 dips, let’s understand the core process for making pimento cheese spread. Once you have a fantastic base, adapting it for these different dip variations is surprisingly simple. Essentially, you’ll be grating cheese, draining pimentos, and then mixing everything with mayonnaise and seasonings until it reaches that perfect, creamy consistency. Some dips might require a quick sauté, a bake in the oven, or just a simple stir-in of extra ingredients, but the foundation remains the same. It’s all about creating that rich, flavorful canvas before you begin to paint with additional delicious elements.
What You’ll Need
To embark on your pimento cheese dip adventure, here are the core ingredients you’ll need for the base spread, plus some common additions you’ll see across the various dip recipes. Individual dip-specific ingredients will be detailed in the directions.
For the Classic Pimento Cheese Base:
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 16 oz (about 4 cups shredded), preferably a block that you grate yourself for best flavor and texture.
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 to 3/4 cup, a good quality brand makes a difference.
- Drained Pimentos: 4 oz jar, diced or chopped. Make sure they are well-drained to avoid a watery spread.
- Cream Cheese: 2 oz, softened (optional, but adds extra creaminess).
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Onion Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste, for a little kick)
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Hot Sauce: 1/2 teaspoon (like Tabasco, optional)
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: to taste
Directions to Follow
Here’s your guide to making the classic pimento cheese base, followed by 10 exciting dip variations. Start with the base, then pick your adventure!
Part 1: The Classic Pimento Cheese Spread Base
- Grate the Cheese: If using block cheddar, grate it yourself. This prevents a waxy texture often found in pre-shredded cheese.
- Soften Cream Cheese (if using): If adding cream cheese, make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, well-drained pimentos, softened cream cheese (if using), mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if desired).
- Mix Thoroughly: Using a sturdy spoon or a rubber spatula, mix all ingredients until well combined and creamy. Some prefer a chunkier texture, others a smoother one – adjust mixing time to your preference.
- Season to Taste: Taste the mixture and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust cayenne or hot sauce if you want more heat.
- Chill: For best flavor development, cover the bowl and refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least 30 minutes, or preferably an hour, before serving or transforming into a dip. This allows the flavors to meld.
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Part 2: 10 Best Pimento Cheese Spread Dips
Once you have your classic Pimento Cheese Spread Base ready, these variations are mostly simple stir-ins or quick additions!
Dip 1: Spicy Jalapeño Pimento Dip
- Add-ins: 2 tablespoons finely diced fresh or pickled jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat), 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro.
- Directions: Stir jalapeños and cilantro into 1.5 cups of the classic pimento cheese base. Chill before serving.
Dip 2: Smoky Bacon Pimento Dip
- Add-ins: 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled crispy bacon.
- Directions: Gently fold the crumbled bacon into 1.5 cups of the classic pimento cheese base. Serve immediately or chill.
Dip 3: Roasted Red Pepper Pimento Dip
- Add-ins: 1/4 cup finely chopped roasted red peppers (from a jar, drained well).
- Directions: Stir the chopped roasted red peppers into 1.5 cups of the classic pimento cheese base.
Dip 4: Everything Bagel Pimento Dip
- Add-ins: 1 tablespoon Everything Bagel seasoning.
- Directions: Mix the Everything Bagel seasoning into 1.5 cups of the classic pimento cheese base. A great dip for mini bagels!
Dip 5: BBQ Ranch Pimento Dip
- Add-ins: 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce, 1 tablespoon ranch dressing.
- Directions: Combine BBQ sauce and ranch dressing with 1.5 cups of the classic pimento cheese base until well mixed.
Dip 6: Green Onion & Chive Pimento Dip
- Add-ins: 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions, 1 tablespoon fresh chives.
- Directions: Fold green onions and chives into 1.5 cups of the classic pimento cheese base.
Dip 7: Zesty Lemon-Herb Pimento Dip
- Add-ins: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon dried dill.
- Directions: Stir lemon juice, parsley, and dill into 1.5 cups of the classic pimento cheese base.
Dip 8: Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Pimento Dip
- Add-ins: 2 tablespoons finely chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained), 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil.
- Directions: Mix sun-dried tomatoes and basil into 1.5 cups of the classic pimento cheese base.
Dip 9: Loaded Baked Potato Pimento Dip (Warm Dip)
- Ingredients: 1.5 cups classic pimento cheese base, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 1/4 cup cooked & crumbled bacon, 1 tablespoon chopped green onions.
- Directions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In an oven-safe dish, combine pimento cheese base and sour cream. Top with bacon and green onions. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly golden. Serve warm.
Dip 10: Hot Pimento Cheese Artichoke Dip (Warm Dip)
- Ingredients: 1.5 cups classic pimento cheese base, 1/2 cup canned artichoke hearts (drained, chopped), 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Directions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix pimento cheese base, chopped artichoke hearts, and half of the Parmesan cheese in an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and lightly browned. Serve warm.
Best ways to enjoy it
Pimento cheese dips are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for almost any occasion. For the classic cold dips, think about serving them with an array of dippers:
- Crackers: Ritz, water crackers, or artisanal varieties.
- Vegetables: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, cucumber slices.
- Bread: Toasted baguette slices, pita chips, crostini.
- Pretzels: Hard pretzels or soft pretzel bites complement the creamy texture.
- Chips: Potato chips, tortilla chips (especially good with the spicier variations).
For the warm dips (like the Loaded Baked Potato or Hot Artichoke versions), serve them straight from the oven in their baking dish. They’re fantastic with sturdy dippers that can handle the warmth and richness, such as tortilla chips, robust crackers, or more toasted bread. Don’t forget that pimento cheese itself can be more than just a dip – spread it on sandwiches, melt it over burgers, or even dollop it onto baked potatoes for a hearty side!
How to store & freeze
Proper storage is key to enjoying your pimento cheese dips safely and keeping them tasting great.
Storage in the Refrigerator:
- Cold Dips: Any leftover cold pimento cheese dip should be transferred to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. While the flavor might develop further after a day, it’s best consumed within the first few days for optimal freshness.
- Warm Dips: If you have leftovers of the baked dips, transfer them to an airtight container once they’ve cooled completely. They will last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Reheating Warm Dips:
- To reheat baked pimento cheese dips, you can use the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, or reheat in an oven-safe dish at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if it seems too thick after refrigeration.
Freezing:
- While classic pimento cheese can be frozen, it’s not ideal for the best texture, especially with the added mayonnaise. Freezing and thawing can sometimes cause the mayonnaise to separate or the cheese to become crumbly.
- If you must freeze, place the dip in a freezer-safe, airtight container, leaving a little headspace. It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.
- To Thaw: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Stir thoroughly before serving, and you might need to beat it gently to re-emulsify if there’s any separation. It’s usually best to use thawed pimento cheese in a cooked application (like a grilled cheese or a warm dip) rather than a cold spread, as the texture may be slightly compromised.
Pro chef tips
Achieving truly stellar pimento cheese, and by extension, these incredible dips, comes down to a few key details that elevate it beyond the ordinary.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: This is perhaps the most crucial tip. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents (like cellulose) that prevent it from melting smoothly and can give your pimento cheese a slightly grainy or waxy texture. Grating a block of sharp cheddar yourself ensures a creamier, more luxurious spread.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For the cold dips, especially if you’re using cream cheese, make sure your cheese (if you’re grating ahead) and mayonnaise are at room temperature. This allows for easier mixing and a smoother, more homogenous blend, preventing lumps.
- Drain Pimentos Thoroughly: Excess liquid from the pimentos can make your spread watery. Press them between paper towels or in a fine-mesh sieve to remove as much moisture as possible.
- Balance Flavors: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust. Pimento cheese relies on a balance of sharp cheddar, tangy mayo, and savory seasonings. Salt, fresh black pepper, a touch of acid (like Worcestershire or hot sauce), and a hint of spice (cayenne or smoked paprika) are essential. Add a little, taste, and then add more if needed.
- Chill Time is Your Friend: While you can serve pimento cheese dips immediately, letting them chill for at least 30 minutes (or even a few hours) allows the flavors to truly meld and deepen. It makes a significant difference.
- Don’t Overmix (Cold Dips): Especially if you like a chunkier pimento cheese, mix until just combined. Overmixing can sometimes make the cheese too “pastry” and lose some of its desirable texture.
- Embrace Fresh Herbs: For a vibrant finish, garnish cold dips with fresh chives, parsley, or green onions right before serving.
Creative twists
Beyond our 10 dip recipes, pimento cheese is a playground for culinary creativity! Here are some ideas to inspire even more variations:
- Pesto Pimento: Swirl in a tablespoon or two of basil pesto for an herbaceous, Italian-inspired twist. Great with toasted focaccia.
- Caramelized Onion Pimento: Sauté some onions slowly until deeply caramelized, then fold them into your base for a sweet and savory depth.
- Beer Cheese Pimento: Add a tablespoon of your favorite amber ale or stout to the mix, along with a pinch of dry mustard, for a pub-style dip.
- Mediterranean Pimento: Combine crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, and a touch of oregano with the pimento cheese base. Delicious with pita!
- Blue Cheese Pimento: For a bolder flavor, swap out a quarter of the cheddar for crumbled blue cheese. Perfect for a football game spread.
- Spicy Maple Pimento: Drizzle in a touch of maple syrup and extra hot sauce for a sweet and fiery contrast. This sounds odd but is surprisingly good!
- Everything Bagel Seasoning (Inside & Out): Not just for sprinkling, mix some into the cheese spread itself for an intense flavor, then sprinkle more on top for texture.
- Smoked Pimento Cheese: If you have a smoker, you can cold smoke your cheddar cheese before making the spread for an incredibly deep, smoky flavor. Or, use a drop or two of liquid smoke.
Common questions
Q1: Can I make pimento cheese without mayonnaise?
A1: While mayonnaise is a cornerstone of classic pimento cheese, if you’re looking for an alternative, you can try using a blend of Greek yogurt and a small amount of olive oil, or even sour cream. However, the flavor and texture will be different from the traditional version, which relies on the richness and tang of mayo. You might need to adjust seasonings accordingly.
Q2: What kind of cheddar cheese is best for pimento cheese?
A2: Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese is generally considered the best. Its robust flavor stands up well to the other ingredients. Avoid mild cheddar as its flavor can get lost. Some people also like to use a blend, incorporating a bit of Monterey Jack or even a smoked cheddar for added complexity. Always grate your own cheese from a block for superior texture.
Q3: How long does homemade pimento cheese dip last in the refrigerator?
A3: Homemade pimento cheese dip, stored in an airtight container, will typically last for 5-7 days in the refrigerator. The flavors often deepen and meld even better after a day or two. If you’ve made a warm dip like the baked artichoke version, it’s best consumed within 3-4 days.
Q4: My pimento cheese spread is too thick/thin. How can I fix it?
A4: If your spread is too thick, gradually add a little more mayonnaise (or a tiny splash of milk or cream for the baked dips) and stir until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, it might be due to undrained pimentos or too much mayo. You can sometimes thicken it by adding a bit more freshly grated cheese, which will absorb some of the excess moisture. Chilling the spread thoroughly can also help it firm up.
Smokey Bacon & Chive Pimento Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the grated cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, drained pimentos, crumbled bacon, and fresh chives.
- Optionally, add liquid smoke for an extra smoky flavor.
- Mix thoroughly with a spatula or spoon until all ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking, then taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.