Southern Pimento Cheese Dip is the perfect appetizer for your next party. Make your next party unforgettable with the ultimate appetizer, the Southern Pimento Cheese Dip. This crowd-pleasing recipe features the perfect combination of creamy, salty, and savory flavors. Using ingredients like pimentos, homemade mayonnaise, cream cheese, Cholula sauce, homemade gluten-free Worcestershire sauce, and a blend of shredded white cheddar and extra sharp cheddar, this dip is a guaranteed hit. Serve it with hamburgers, crackers, crudites, or corn chips, and watch your guests savor every bite.
Southern Pimento Cheese Dip
Whether you want a spread for your crackers or a flavorful sandwich topping, this recipe has got you covered. Make your next party unforgettable with the addictive, mouthwatering delight that is Southern Pimento, Cheese Dip. This undisputed champion of party appetizers is the perfect combination of creamy, salty, and savory flavors, guaranteed to have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds). So get ready to elevate your entertaining game as we take you on a flavorful journey through the origins, ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and even some exciting variations of this southern gem. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, a casual picnic, or a lively potluck, this recipe will be the star of the show. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the ultimate party appetizer: Southern Pimento Cheese Dip.
History Of The Dip:
Naturally, it has a rich history in the South. Born in the heart of the South, this beloved dish has deep roots in the culinary traditions of the region.
It all started with the humble pimento pepper, a vibrant and mildly sweet variety that became a staple in Southern cooking. These red beauties were carefully roasted, peeled, and diced, adding a burst of color and flavor to an array of dishes. But it wasn’t until they merged with another Southern favorite, cheese, that the magic truly began.
Combining their culinary ingenuity with a desire to create something truly indulgent, Southern cooks started blending shredded cheese with diced pimentos, mayonnaise, and a few secret ingredients. The result? A creamy, tangy, and utterly addictive dip that soon became a staple at social gatherings, from family picnics to church potlucks.
While the exact origins of the Southern Pimento Cheese Dip recipe remain somewhat mysterious, it quickly spread across the South, becoming a cherished part of regional cuisine. Generations of families passed down their own variations, each one adding a unique twist to the classic recipe.
As Southern culture has evolved, so has the popularity of this delectable dip. Once a humble homemade treat, it has now found its way onto the menus of trendy restaurants and upscale food stores, captivating taste buds far beyond its traditional boundaries.
Whether served with crunchy crackers, crisp vegetables or spread on a warm slice of bread, Southern Pimento Cheese Dip continues to embody the essence of Southern hospitality. Its simplicity and versatility make it the perfect accompaniment to any gathering, from casual backyard barbecues to elegant cocktail parties.
Ingredients for the Dip:
First and foremost, you’ll need a generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese. Opt for the highest quality cheese you can find, as it will greatly impact the overall flavor of your dip. Grating the cheese yourself will ensure a creamier and more flavorful result compared to pre-packaged shredded cheese.
Next, you’ll want to gather some cream cheese. This creamy and tangy ingredient adds a delightful richness to the dip, complementing the sharpness of the cheddar cheese. Make sure to let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before using it, as it will blend more easily with the other ingredients.
To lend a touch of heat and a distinctive Southern flavor, you’ll need some diced pimentos. These sweet and slightly spicy peppers provide a pop of color and a unique taste that truly sets this dip apart. Look for jars of diced pimentos in the condiment aisle of your grocery store, or you can even roast and dice fresh red bell peppers for an extra special touch.
Mayonnaise is another crucial ingredient in this recipe. It acts as a binder, bringing all the flavors together and creating a smooth and creamy texture. Therefore, I highly recommend my homemade mayonnaise.
To add a hint of tanginess, a splash of my Gluten-Free Worcestershire sauce is essential. This savory condiment balances the richness of the cheeses and adds depth of flavor to the dip. Just a small amount goes a long way, so use it sparingly.
Lastly, you’ll need some seasonings to enhance the overall taste of the dip. Garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper lend subtle yet crucial flavors that will elevate your dip from good to amazing. Adjust the seasonings to your personal preference, keeping in mind that a little goes a long way.
Directions To Make Southern Pimento Cheese Dip:
Begin by grating the sharp cheddar cheese into a large mixing bowl. The sharpness of the cheese is essential to balance the creaminess of the other ingredients, so opt for the sharpest variety available. Next, add the cream cheese to the bowl, along with the mayonnaise and diced pimentos. The cream cheese adds a smooth and velvety texture, while the pimentos infuse the dip with their signature tang and vibrant color.
To further enhance the flavors, sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. These seasonings bring depth and complexity to the dip, taking it from good to utterly amazing. Remember that a little goes a long way with these potent ingredients, so adjust the amounts according to your personal taste preferences.
With all the ingredients combined, use a sturdy spoon or spatula to thoroughly mix everything together. Ensure that the cheeses are evenly distributed, forming a harmonious union. The dip should be creamy and slightly chunky, with the flavors melding together to create a delicious symphony.
Once the dip has been thoroughly mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and intensify. This chilling time is crucial for the dip to reach its full potential, as it allows the ingredients to marry and become even more mouthwatering.
Variations:
To begin with, you can experiment with different types of cheese to personalize your dip. While cheddar is traditional, you can also try using a combination of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even Gouda. This will add interesting layers of flavor and enhance the overall richness of the dip.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider incorporating additional ingredients to elevate the taste profile. Adding a touch of heat with some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can give your dip a spicy kick. You can also enhance its smoky undertones by mixing in some crumbled bacon or smoked paprika. These bold additions will bring a whole new dimension to the dish and leave your guests craving for more.
When it comes to serving your Southern Pimento Cheese Dip, the options are endless. Classic choices like crispy crackers or toasted baguette slices work wonderfully, but don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Consider serving it with vegetable crudités, such as carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper strips, for a refreshing and healthier option. Make your Southern Pimento Cheese Dip truly your own.
In Conclusion:
Now, it’s time for you to unleash your culinary skills and whip up this delicious dip. Experiment with variations and get creative with serving suggestions, from pairing it with crunchy crackers to spreading it on warm, toasted bread. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination. Create a memorable party where laughter, good food, and cherished moments intertwine.
Check out Gluten-Free Southern Recipes.
Southern Pimento Cheese Dip
Ingredients:
- 1 (4 oz.) jar of pimento ( drain and reserve 2 tbsp of juice)
- 1/2 cup Homemade Mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup of cream cheese
- 1 1/2 tbsp Cholula Sauce
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 3 tsp Gluten-Free AKA Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp grated onions
- 8 oz. shredded white cheddar
- 8 oz. shredded extra sharp cheddar
- 2 tbsp dill pickle juice
- 1 pinch of smoked paprika
Directions:
First, drain the pimentos reserving 1 tbsp. Second, combine the pimentos, mayonnaise, cream cheese, Worcestershire, onion powder, Cholula, garlic powder, and grated onions stir until combined. Next, stir in both shredded cheddar kinds of cheese. Serve with hamburgers, crackers, crudites, or corn chips.
Southern Pimento Cheese Dip
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 oz. Jar of Pimento's drain and reserve 2 tbsp of juice
- 1/2 cup Homemade Mayonnaise see the recipe on my blog
- 1/2 cup of cream cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 4 1/2 tsp Cholula sauce
- 3 tsp Gluten-Free Worcestershire Sauce See the recipe for this on my blog
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp grated onion
- 8 oz. shredded white cheddar
- 8 oz. shredded extra sharp cheddar
- 2 tbsp dill pickle juice
- 1 pinch of Smoked Paprika
Instructions
- First, drain the pimentos reserving 2 tbsp.4 oz. Jar of Pimento's
- Second, combine the pimentos, mayonnaise, cream cheese, sour cream, Worcestershire, onion powder, Cholula, garlic powder, grated onions, and a pinch of smoked paprika and stir until combined.1/2 cup Homemade Mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of cream cheese, 1/4 cup sour cream, 4 1/2 tsp Cholula sauce, 3 tsp Gluten-Free Worcestershire Sauce, 2 tsp onion powder, 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 2 tbsp grated onion, 8 oz. shredded white cheddar, 8 oz. shredded extra sharp cheddar, 2 tbsp dill pickle juice, 1 pinch of Smoked Paprika
- Next, stir in both shredded cheddar kinds of cheese.
- Serve with hamburgers, crackers, crudites, or corn chips.
- Use as a filling for grilled cheese or a sandwich.
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Servings 32.0 | |
| Amount Per Serving | |
| Calories 98 | |
| % Daily Value * | |
| Total Fat 9 g | 14 % |
| Saturated Fat 4 g | 21 % |
| Monounsaturated Fat 1 g | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2 g | |
| Trans Fat 0 g | |
| Cholesterol 22 mg | 7 % |
| Sodium 150 mg | 6 % |
| Potassium 23 mg | 1 % |
| Total Carbohydrate 1 g | 0 % |
| Dietary Fiber 0 g | 0 % |
| Sugars 0 g | |
| Protein 4 g | 7 % |
| Vitamin A | 6 % |
| Vitamin C | 5 % |
| Calcium | 11 % |
| Iron | 1 % |
| * The Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet, so your values may change depending on your calorie needs. The values here may not be 100% accurate because the recipes have not been professionally evaluated nor have they been evaluated by the U.S. FDA. | |
Nutrition
