The Ultimate Warm Pimiento Cheese Dip: A Beloved Southern Comfort

There’s nothing quite like a warm, gooey, and flavorful dip to kick off a gathering or simply elevate a cozy night in. This Warm Pimiento Cheese Dip takes all the beloved, classic flavors of traditional pimiento cheese and transforms them into an irresistibly melty, baked delight. It’s a true celebration of Southern comfort food, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

A Culinary Accident That Created a Southern Star

Like many of the best recipes, this warm pimiento cheese dip was born out of a moment of improvisation in the kitchen. I was planning to whip up a batch of my classic pimiento cheese spread, a staple in any Southern home, when I realized I was short on the sharp cheddar I typically use. My mayonnaise and seasonings were already mixed, and I didn’t want to waste them or abandon my pimiento cheese craving. So, I grabbed a block of softened cream cheese, added a touch more mayonnaise, folded in the shredded cheese I did have on hand, and thought, “Why not try to bake it into a dip?” The result was nothing short of amazing! It was a revelation – a warm, bubbly, and profoundly satisfying dip that immediately earned a permanent spot in my recipe repertoire. This happy accident proved that sometimes, the best culinary creations come from unexpected turns.

Understanding Pimiento Cheese: A Southern Tradition

Before diving into the warm version, it’s worth appreciating the roots of pimiento cheese. Often called “the pâté of the South” or “Southern caviar,” pimiento cheese is more than just a spread; it’s a cultural icon. At its core, it’s a simple blend of grated cheddar cheese, diced pimientos, and mayonnaise, typically seasoned with various spices. The beauty of pimiento cheese lies in its versatility and rich, savory flavor. From humble beginnings as a thrifty, homemade spread, it has graced countless Southern tables, finding its way into sandwiches, on crackers, as a topping for burgers, and even in gourmet dishes. This warm rendition respects that tradition while adding a comforting, indulgent twist that makes it perfect for appetizers and special occasions.

Why This Warm Pimiento Cheese Dip Will Be Your New Favorite Appetizer

If you love the classic pimiento cheese spread, prepare to fall head over heels for its warm, baked counterpart. This dip delivers an incredible depth of flavor with a texture that is simply irresistible. The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack (or your favorite cheeses) melts into a luxuriously smooth consistency, punctuated by the sweet, subtle tang of pimientos and a hint of spice. It’s incredibly easy to make, yet it feels wonderfully gourmet, making it an ideal choice for holiday parties, game days, or any time you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer that practically makes itself. The golden, crispy cracker topping adds a delightful contrast to the rich, cheesy interior, creating a harmonious bite every time.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Pimiento Cheese Dip

Creating this irresistible warm dip requires a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and creamy texture that make this recipe so special. The full detailed recipe with exact measurements can be found at the bottom of this post, but here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This is the backbone of any good pimiento cheese. The sharp flavor provides a wonderful tang and depth, which is essential for that classic taste. Using freshly shredded cheese is highly recommended for a smoother melt.
• Cream Cheese: The secret ingredient that transforms traditional pimiento cheese into a luscious, warm dip. Softened cream cheese provides unparalleled creaminess and helps achieve that irresistible gooey texture when baked.
• Mayonnaise: A crucial binder and flavor enhancer. Mayonnaise adds a rich, tangy creaminess that is characteristic of authentic Southern pimiento cheese.
• Diced Pimientos: These sweet, mild red peppers are non-negotiable for pimiento cheese. They provide a beautiful color and a subtle, sweet flavor that balances the sharpness of the cheese. Ensure they are well-drained to prevent a watery dip.
• Green Onions: Finely chopped green onions (scallions) add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a touch of vibrant green, enhancing both taste and appearance.
• Dry Mustard: A small amount of dry ground mustard powder works wonders to amplify the cheese flavor without making the dip taste distinctly like mustard. It’s a classic secret ingredient in many cheese-based dishes.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Just a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce adds a deep, savory, umami note that rounds out the flavors and adds complexity.
• Hot Sauce (optional): For those who enjoy a little kick, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can add a fantastic layer of warmth and spice. Adjust to your preference.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Always taste and adjust to ensure the dip is perfectly balanced.
• Crushed Ritz Crackers: The ultimate topping for this dip! When baked, they create a buttery, crispy, golden-brown crust that provides a delightful textural contrast to the creamy dip underneath.

Tips for Making the Best Warm Pimiento Cheese Dip

Achieving the perfect warm pimiento cheese dip is incredibly straightforward, but a few key tips can elevate your results from good to absolutely amazing:

• Always Shred Your Own Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melt and texture of your dip, sometimes making it gritty. For the smoothest, creamiest, and most flavorful dip, take the extra minute to shred your own blocks of cheese. You’ll notice a significant difference!
• Experiment with Cheese Combinations: I’ve found that a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack works beautifully, offering both robust flavor and excellent meltability. However, don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite cheeses! Colby Jack, Gruyere, or even a smoked cheddar could add interesting nuances to the dip.
• Thoroughly Drain Pimientos: Pimientos are usually packed in water or brine. Excess liquid can make your dip watery and dilute the flavors. Be sure to drain them very well, even pressing them gently with a paper towel, before adding them to the mixture.
• Softened Cream Cheese is Key: For a smooth, lump-free dip, ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This allows it to blend seamlessly with the mayonnaise, creating a uniform base.
• Topping Options: While crushed Ritz crackers offer a signature buttery crunch, you can substitute them with panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier texture, or even a mix of both. For an extra touch, consider mixing in a tablespoon of melted butter with your topping crumbs before sprinkling.
• Don’t Overbake: The goal is a warm, bubbly dip with a golden topping, not a dried-out one. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking. It should be gently bubbling around the edges.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the dip mixture (without the cracker topping) ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then add the topping and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s still cold.

How to Make Warm Pimiento Cheese Dip: Step-by-Step

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is incredibly simple, making it perfect for both seasoned chefs and beginner cooks. Follow these straightforward steps to create a truly unforgettable warm pimiento cheese dip.

First, begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This will ensure your delicious dip doesn’t stick and makes for easier cleanup later. Next, take the time to shred all your cheese. As mentioned in our tips, freshly shredded cheese melts much more smoothly and contributes to a superior texture.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. For the smoothest and most thoroughly combined base, I highly recommend using an electric mixer. Beat these two ingredients together until they are light, fluffy, and completely smooth, with no lumps of cream cheese remaining. This creamy foundation is essential for the dip’s luxurious texture.

Next, it’s time to prepare your pimientos. Ensure they are exceptionally well drained. Pimientos are typically packed in water, and you absolutely do not want any excess moisture to thin out your dip or make it watery. Use a fine-mesh strainer and press gently to remove as much liquid as possible.

Once your pimientos are dry, add them into the cream cheese and mayonnaise mixture. Also, incorporate the chopped green onions, dry ground mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of hot sauce if you’re using it. Stir everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the creamy base. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Now, it’s time for the star of the show: the shredded cheese! Gently fold in all of your freshly shredded cheddar (and Monterey Jack, if using) into the mixture. Stir carefully until the cheese is just combined and evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing, as this can sometimes lead to a tougher texture.

Give the entire mixture one final stir to ensure everything is perfectly combined. At this point, I like to do a quick taste test. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. Once satisfied, spread the creamy pimiento cheese mixture evenly into your prepared 2-quart baking dish. Make sure it’s spread from edge to edge for even baking.

Finally, sprinkle the top of the dip evenly with the crushed Ritz crackers. This layer will bake into a golden-brown, buttery crust that adds an irresistible crunch to every bite. Place the baking dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven.

Bake for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until the topping is slightly golden brown and the dip is gently bubbling around the edges. Be careful not to overcook it, as you want the cheese to remain melty and gooey. Once baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Then, dig in with your favorite buttery crackers, fresh vegetables, or crusty bread!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Warm Pimiento Cheese Dip is incredibly versatile. Serve it hot with a variety of dippers such as classic buttery crackers, crusty baguette slices, pita chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, or even sturdy tortilla chips. For a heartier option, spoon it over baked potatoes or use it as a decadent spread for grilled cheese sandwiches. To customize the dip, consider adding cooked crumbled bacon, a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat, or even a different herb like chives or parsley for a fresh touch. It’s a fantastic appetizer for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant holiday parties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Warm Pimiento Cheese Dip

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying this delicious dip:

• Can I make this dip in a slow cooker? Yes, you can! Combine all ingredients (except the cracker topping) in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until hot and bubbly. Add the cracker topping during the last 15-20 minutes, or toast them separately and sprinkle on top just before serving.
• What are pimientos? Pimientos (also spelled pimentos) are a type of large, heart-shaped red pepper, similar to a bell pepper but sweeter and more aromatic with very little heat. They are commonly found jarred, diced, in the condiment aisle.
• How long does warm pimiento cheese dip last? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Can I reheat leftovers? Absolutely! Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through and bubbly, or gently in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Add a fresh sprinkle of crackers if desired for texture.
• Is this dip spicy? The base recipe is quite mild. The hot sauce is optional and can be adjusted to your preferred level of spice.

Craving More Southern-Inspired Recipes?

• Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Spread
• Pimiento Cheese Macaroni Salad
• Pimiento Cheese Sausage Dip
• Irresistible Crack Chicken Dip
• Easy Skillet Refried Bean Dip
• Cheesy Pizza Skillet Dip
• Creamy Taco Dip
• Warm Taco Bean Dip
• Zesty Jalapeno Popper Dip
• Decadent Million Dollar Dip
• Smoky Crock Pot Queso Dip

Warm Pimento Cheese Dip

This Warm Pimiento Cheese Dip is a creamy and flavorful dip that has all the flavors of pimiento cheese in a warm and gooey dip!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 8

Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

• 2 (8 ounce) blocks of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 7 ounce jar diced pimientos, well drained
• ½ cup chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon dry ground mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Dash of hot sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use an electric mixer for the easiest and smoothest blending.
3. Add in drained pimientos, chopped green onions, dry ground mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of hot sauce (if desired). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
4. Finally, add in the freshly shredded cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is evenly combined with the creamy mixture.
5. Spread the dip mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with the crushed Ritz crackers.
6. Bake for about 18-20 minutes on the middle rack. Do not overcook; the dip should be gently bubbling around the edges, and the cracker topping should be golden brown and crisp.
7. Remove from oven and let stand for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with your favorite crackers, fresh vegetables, or crusty bread.

Video

Notes

• Serve this warm pimiento cheese dip with your favorite buttery crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or slices of toasted baguette.
• For an extra crispy topping, you can lightly toast the crushed Ritz crackers in a dry pan for a few minutes before sprinkling them on top.

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Nutrition (Estimated Per Serving)

Calories: 464kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 41g | Sodium: 608mg | Sugar: 2g

Nutritional Disclaimer: “The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

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