Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this baked pimento dip will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Ready in under 30 minutes.
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Creamy and cheesy. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves cheese dip.
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Budget-friendly. Cream cheese, mayonnaise, and cheddar are inexpensive.
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Perfect for parties, holidays, and gatherings.
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Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
Servings: 8
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened
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1 cup mayonnaise
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1 jar (4 ounces) diced pimentos, drained
Ingredient Notes
Cream cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese. Soften it to room temperature.
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess.
Cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor.
Pimentos: Use diced pimentos. Drain them well.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a small cast iron skillet or 1-quart baking dish.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, and drained pimentos until evenly combined.
Step 3: Transfer to the Skillet
Spoon the mixture into the prepared skillet and spread it into an even layer.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until hot and bubbly around the edges and lightly golden on top.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the dip rest for 5 minutes before serving so it stays creamy but is easier to scoop. Serve warm with crackers.
How to Serve Baked Pimento Dip
This creamy, cheesy dip is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Crackers: Serve with buttery crackers or pita chips.
With Vegetables: Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips.
With Bread: Serve with sliced baguette or toast points.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
With a Salad: Add to a party platter.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Pepper Jack: Use pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
Make It with Green Chiles: Add diced green chiles.
Make It with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon.
Make It with Jalapeños: Add diced jalapeños.
Make It with Onion: Add finely chopped onion.
Make It with Garlic: Add garlic powder.
Make It with Paprika: Sprinkle with smoked paprika.
Make It Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Soften the cream cheese. This ensures a smooth dip.
Drain the pimentos well. Excess liquid can thin the dip.
Do not overbake. The dip should be hot and bubbly, not dry.
Let the dip rest before serving. This allows it to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Monterey Jack or pepper jack can be used.
Can I use a different mayonnaise?
Yes. Any mayonnaise works.
Can I use a different pimento?
Yes. Roasted red peppers can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dip?
Freezing is not recommended. The texture may change.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my dip runny?
The pimentos were not drained well. Drain thoroughly.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Use up to 3 cups.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours.
The Beauty of Southern Dips
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, creamy, cheesy dip that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This baked pimento dip is a celebration of all those things.
Keep cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar, and pimentos in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 to 25 minutes
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings