Baked Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe
If you love cheesy, comforting dips that bring people together, you are going to adore this Baked Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe. It takes classic pimento cheese to a whole new level by baking it until irresistibly warm and bubbly, creating a luscious, creamy texture that’s perfect for any gathering. The blend of sharp cheddar, creamy cream cheese, tangy sour cream, and just the right kick from roasted red peppers makes this dip an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting game day, a casual get-together, or simply craving a cozy snack, this dip will quickly become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Baked Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe just right is all about balancing simple, fresh ingredients that bring out incredible flavor and perfect texture. Each component plays its part, from creaminess to tang to a hint of spice, making the dip truly unforgettable.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): This provides the smooth, creamy base that holds everything together and adds rich flavor.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): Adds moisture and a mild tang that keeps the dip luscious and velvety.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Brings a subtle tartness that enhances depth and balance.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (3 cups): The star ingredient, lending sharpness and gooey meltiness.
- Shredded parmesan cheese (1 cup): Adds a savory, salty complexity to the cheesy mix.
- Roasted red peppers (12 oz jar, drained): Provides sweet, smoky flavor with a beautiful pop of color.
- Garlic salt (¾ tsp): Boosts savory notes and adds a subtle garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp): Infuses a deep umami richness for extra flavor dimension.
- Hot sauce (½ tsp): Just enough heat to keep things exciting and lively.
How to Make Baked Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350ºF and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures your dip won’t stick and makes cleanup easier after you’ve enjoyed every last bite.
Step 2: Chop the Roasted Red Peppers
Drain the roasted red peppers thoroughly to avoid adding unnecessary liquid to your dip. Then, chop them into small pieces so they blend nicely throughout the cheesy mixture.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded cheddar, shredded parmesan, chopped red peppers, garlic salt, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Stir everything until just combined—make sure those ingredients are evenly distributed because that’s how every bite gets a perfect flavor boost.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish and pop it in the oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and has a lovely golden top. The warm cheese melds beautifully, making it wonderfully creamy and irresistible.
How to Serve Baked Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little garnish can elevate your presentation and add freshness. Try topping your warm dip with a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or parsley for a burst of color and mild oniony flavor that brightens every scoop.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with crunchy options like toasted baguette slices, sturdy crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks such as celery, carrots, and bell peppers. The crisp texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, cheesy dip, creating an addictive combination.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Baked Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe inside a hollowed-out bread bowl or alongside a platter of smoked meats and pickles. Turning it into a party centerpiece invites guests to dig in and makes your gathering feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare but possible), store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 4 days, giving you plenty of opportunities to enjoy those cheesy, creamy flavors again.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked pimento cheese dip if you want to prepare ahead of time. Transfer it into a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your dip gently in the oven at 325ºF for about 15 minutes or until warmed through, stirring once halfway to bring back that melt-in-your-mouth creaminess. Avoid microwaving, which can cause uneven heating or separation.
FAQs
Can I use fresh roasted red peppers instead of jarred?
Absolutely! Fresh roasted red peppers add a brighter, more vibrant flavor, but just make sure to drain them well and chop finely to maintain the dip’s texture.
Is this dip spicy?
The hot sauce adds a gentle heat that balances the creaminess without being overpowering. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or omit it for a milder version.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Cheddar and parmesan create a great base for flavor and texture, but you can experiment with smoked gouda or mozzarella for variations. Just keep the total amount the same to ensure proper melting.
How long can I prepare the dip ahead before baking?
You can mix the ingredients and assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered tightly in the fridge and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best way to serve this for a party?
This dip is fantastic warm right out of the oven—serve it in the baking dish with plenty of dippers on the side. For an elegant touch, add fresh herbs and arrange on a platter with colorful veggies and crackers.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe is a true comfort food treasure that never fails to impress guests and satisfy snack cravings alike. Its rich flavors, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness make it an effortless crowd-pleaser you’ll want to bake again and again. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become your favorite go-to dip for every occasion.
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Baked Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This creamy and flavorful Baked Pimento Cheese Dip is the perfect crowd-pleaser for parties and gatherings. Combining the sharpness of cheddar and parmesan cheeses with the tang of mayonnaise, sour cream, and roasted red peppers, then baked until bubbly, it offers a warm, delicious dip that pairs wonderfully with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 (12-oz) jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
- ¾ tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Red Peppers: Drain the jar of roasted red peppers thoroughly and chop them into small pieces.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded cheddar and parmesan cheeses, chopped roasted red peppers, garlic salt, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Stir well until everything is evenly blended.
- Spread and Bake: Spread the cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and heated through.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a dash more hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños.
- This dip can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; bake just before serving.
- Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks.
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American