Tacky, tangy, and creamy Pimento Cheese is a traditional get together dip and unfold constructed from cheddar cheese and candy pimento peppers. This straightforward Southern appetizer is a must have on sport day. You’ll see why!
For those who’re studying this within the South, you already know what’s about to go down on this kitchen. In our home, it’s hardly a sport day or a gathering except there’s an enormous bowl of creamy pimento cheese on the desk. I figured it was excessive time that I shared my recipe with you.
Pimento cheese is a favourite Southern dip recipe that’s ultra-creamy, additional tacky, dippable, and spreadable. It’s proper up there with Spinach and Artichoke Dip as a must have appetizer. For those who’ve by no means tried it, put together to be obsessed!
Why You’ll Love This Simple Dip Concept
I can virtually assure that this traditional dip will change into a staple in your family. Right here’s why you’ll like it:
A great deal of taste. This mouthwatering cheese dip is just a little candy, just a little tangy, and it might probably even be just a little spicy relying on the way you prefer it.
Tremendous straightforward. Mix the elements, after which let your dip sit within the fridge till you’re able to dig in. That’s it!
Good for sport day. No soccer get together of ours is full with out do-it-yourself pimento cheese unfold over all the pieces from crackers to veggies. It’s good for dipping and topping.
What Is Pimento Cheese?
Pimento cheese is a traditional Southern appetizer that sees cheddar cheese and pimento peppers become a creamy dip (that doubles as a sandwich unfold). In some states, it’s often called Southern pâté. Unfold it over all the pieces from crostini to crackers, and use it as a tacky dip for veggies, and extra.
Are Pimento Peppers Sizzling?
Pimento peppers are one of many mildest sorts of chili peppers, with a taste that’s typically candy reasonably than spicy. In truth, pimentos are also called cherry peppers because of their sweetness and vibrant purple colour.
For those who like your dip spicy, take the warmth up a notch with jarred sizzling purple peppers rather than the delicate roasted purple peppers used on this recipe. You could possibly additionally add in finely diced jalapeños.
Components You’ll Want
Beneath is a fast overview of the brief record of elements you’ll have to make this well-known Southern pimento pepper dip. You should definitely scroll to the recipe card for the total recipe particulars.
Cheddar Cheese: Ensure that to make use of freshly grated cheddar and never the type that comes pre-shredded. I really like making this recipe with sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese.
Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese come to room temperature beforehand, in order that it’s simpler to combine.
Pimento Peppers: I really like the comfort of jarred pimentos or roasted purple peppers. Pat them dry and cube them up finely.
Mayonnaise: Including mayo makes the consistency of the dip much more wealthy and creamy.
Seasoning: Everybody has a distinct manner of seasoning their pimento cheese! I exploit a mix of cayenne pepper for kick, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to style.
The right way to Make Pimento Cheese
It couldn’t be simpler to make do-it-yourself pimento cheese. Merely toss all of the elements right into a bowl and provides it a superb stir. As soon as your dip is mixed, pop it into the fridge for not less than 2 hours. Chilling the cheese dip permits the flavors to come back collectively earlier than serving.
Can I Put together This Recipe Forward of Time?
Sure! As talked about, you wish to give this recipe sufficient time within the fridge. This makes pimento cheese very make-ahead pleasant. Put together the dip as directed a day or two prematurely, after which hold it coated within the fridge till you’re able to serve it.
Ideas for Success
Listed here are some further suggestions for the perfect pimento cheese:
Grate the cheese freshly by hand. Skip the baggage of cheese when making pimento cheese, as pre-shredded cheddar comes with a waxy coating that impacts the dip’s taste and texture.
For those who’re delicate to spice, omit the cayenne pepper within the recipe. Be happy to regulate the opposite seasonings to style, additionally.
Pace issues up along with your hand mixer. If I’m in a rush, I’ll use my electrical hand mixer to mix the dip elements. No matter you do, keep away from the meals processor as you continue to need the feel of this dip to remain good and fluffy.
Every time I’ve a batch within the fridge, I’ll smear this purple pepper dip over my morning bagel. This recipe additionally makes a terrific unfold on a pimento grilled cheese sandwich and a scrumptious, flavorful burger topping. Plus, it’s scrumptious so as to add to extra tacky recipes like my Stovetop Mac and Cheese!
Storing Leftovers
This straightforward appetizer recipe retains properly, so you’ll be able to take pleasure in leftovers for days afterward! Right here’s the best way to retailer your pimento cheese:
Fridge: This cheddar and purple pepper dip might be saved hermetic within the fridge for as much as 4-5 days.
Freezer: I don’t suggest freezing cheese-based dips as they have a tendency to show grainy after they’re thawed. Fortunate for you, this recipe is a breeze to whip up and hold within the fridge!
Creamy Pimento Cheese is a traditional Southern appetizer dip and unfold constructed from cheddar cheese and candy pimento peppers. It’s a must have on sport day!
2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese, not pre-grated
6 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1/3 cup finely diced roasted purple peppers, patted dry
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to style
Mix all of the elements in a big bowl and stir till mixed and creamy. Refrigerate for two hours to permit the flavors to mix.
Serve with crackers, pita chips, tortilla chips, or as a diffusion on sandwiches, as a burger topper, or on a bagel
