Baked Pimento Cheese Dip: A Southern Delight

Recipe Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped pimentos, green onions, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown on top.
  5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
  6. Garnish with additional chopped green onions, if desired.
  7. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or veggies for dipping.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make Baked Pimento Cheese Dip, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Oven

Serving Suggestions

Baked Pimento Cheese Dip is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Serve it with an assortment of crackers, chips, and fresh veggies for dipping. For a Southern-inspired spread, consider adding some homemade biscuits or cornbread on the side. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, why not whip up a batch of fried green tomatoes or hush puppies to round out the meal?

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely, but hey, it happens!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply transfer the dip to a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and heated through.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends to suit your taste preferences. Sharp cheddar works great in this recipe, but you can also try using Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even gouda for a unique twist.

Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dip up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate until needed. Bake according to the recipe instructions when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze this dip? While you can technically freeze Baked Pimento Cheese Dip, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The cheese may become a bit grainy or separate from the other ingredients. For best results, I recommend enjoying this dip fresh or refrigerating any leftovers for later enjoyment.

Share the Love!

If you love cheesy, indulgent snacks, be sure to give this Baked Pimento Cheese Dip a try! And don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family. For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, be sure to subscribe to our blog. Happy dipping!