Pimento Cheese Dip | Creamy, Cheesy Southern Classic
1. Introduction
Few Southern dishes capture comfort and flavor like Pimento Cheese Dip — a creamy, tangy, and delightfully cheesy spread that has earned its nickname as “the caviar of the South.”
This simple dip combines sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and diced pimentos for a perfect balance of creamy, salty, and slightly sweet flavors. Whether you serve it chilled as a spread or warm and bubbly as a dip, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect homemade pimento cheese dip, along with flavor tips, serving suggestions, and easy variations to make it your own.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
1. Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, freshly shredded)
The backbone of the dip. Freshly shredded cheddar melts smoother and tastes sharper than pre-shredded cheese.
2. Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened)
Adds creaminess and helps bind everything together. Use full-fat for richness.
3. Mayonnaise (½ cup)
Gives a silky texture and light tang. Duke’s or Hellmann’s are classic Southern favorites.
4. Diced Pimentos (1 jar, about 4 oz, drained)
Sweet, mild red peppers that give color and signature flavor to the dip.
5. Garlic Powder (½ tsp)
Adds a subtle savory note without overpowering the cheese.
6. Onion Powder (½ tsp)
Gives depth and rounds out the flavors.
7. Cayenne Pepper or Hot Sauce (optional, to taste)
For a touch of spice — optional but highly recommended.
8. Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
Adjust seasoning depending on your cheese and mayo.
Optional Add-ins:
- Shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra melt and spice
- A dash of Worcestershire sauce for savory complexity
- Chopped jalapeños for heat
Substitutions & Dietary Options
- Lighter Version: Use light cream cheese and reduced-fat mayo.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute vegan cheese and dairy-free mayo.
- Keto-Friendly: Naturally low-carb; serve with celery sticks or cucumber slices.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Grate the cheddar cheese if using a block. Drain the pimentos thoroughly to avoid a watery dip.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and well blended using a hand mixer or spoon.
Step 3: Add Flavorings
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (or hot sauce), salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Fold in Cheese and Pimentos
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and diced pimentos. Fold gently until everything is evenly distributed and the mixture is creamy and cohesive.
Step 5: Chill or Serve Warm
- For cold dip: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to develop.
- For warm dip: Spread the mixture into an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warm and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the pimento cheese dip with crackers, toasted baguette slices, celery sticks, or pretzels.
4. Tips and Variations
Expert Tips:
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing.
- Shred your own cheese — pre-shredded blends contain anti-caking agents that prevent creamy texture.
- Adjust mayo gradually until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Let it chill — an hour in the fridge makes the flavors meld beautifully.
Flavor Variations:
- Spicy Pimento Cheese: Add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce.
- Smoky Version: Use smoked cheddar or add a touch of smoked paprika.
- Bacon Lovers: Stir in crisp bacon bits for a salty crunch.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in chopped chives or parsley for freshness.
5. Serving Suggestions
Perfect Pairings:
- Serve with Ritz crackers, tortilla chips, or crostini.
- Use as a spread for sandwiches or burgers.
- Pair with fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and celery for a lighter option.
- Add as a topping to baked potatoes or burgers for a gourmet twist.
Presentation Ideas:
- Garnish with a few extra diced pimentos and a sprinkle of paprika.
- Serve warm in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic look.
- Offer in a hollowed bread bowl for parties.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing:
- Not recommended — freezing changes the creamy texture.
Reheating (for warm dip):
- Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can be made ahead of time — flavors improve overnight.
- Best with freshly shredded cheese for texture and flavor.
- Serve chilled or warm, depending on preference.
- Easily doubled for parties or gatherings.
8. Nutrition Information (Per ¼ Cup Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Sodium | 310 mg |
| Cholesterol | 35 mg |
| Calcium | 180 mg |
| Iron | 0.2 mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Appetizer / Snack / Dip
Cuisine: Southern / American
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes (optional)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 oz jar diced pimentos, drained
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Dash of cayenne or hot sauce (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and seasoning.
- Fold in cheddar cheese and pimentos until evenly combined.
- Chill for 1 hour or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
- Serve with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.
🏷️ Diet Tags
- Low-Carb
- Gluten-Free
- Keto-Friendly
- Vegetarian
🌿 Health Benefits
- Provides calcium and protein from cheese.
- Low in carbohydrates.
- Can be made with light ingredients for a healthier option.
10. FAQs
1. Can I make pimento cheese dip ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after a few hours as the flavors blend.
2. Can I serve pimento cheese dip warm?
Definitely. Bake it until bubbly for a comforting, melted version.
3. What’s the best cheese for this dip?
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can mix in Monterey Jack for smoothness.
4. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 5 days in an airtight container.
5. Can I freeze it?
It’s not recommended — the texture becomes grainy after thawing.
11. Final Thoughts
Pimento Cheese Dip is the kind of dish that never goes out of style — creamy, cheesy, tangy, and nostalgic all at once. Whether you serve it cold as a spread or warm as a dip, it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that fits every occasion from casual gatherings to elegant parties.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a homemade version that’s miles better than anything store-bought.
Give this Southern classic a try and let me know in the comments how you served your pimento cheese dip — warm, cold, or with your favorite twist!