Entree: United States – Southern United States – Pimento Cheese Dip (Creamy Southern spread made from sharp cheddar and chopped pimentos, used as a dip or sandwich filling)

Food safety reminder: Follow safe food-handling practices and use a food thermometer to verify safe internal cooking temperatures.

Serving Size: 6

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 0 min

Additional 30 min

Total 45 min

Ingredients

- 8 oz (225 g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
- 4 oz (115 g) jarred pimentos, drained and chopped
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) finely diced sweet onion
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) finely chopped pickled jalapeño or 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) hot sauce, optional
- 1 tsp (5 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp (4 g) kosher salt, adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp (0.6 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp (6 g) finely chopped chives or green onions
- 1/4 tsp (0.6 g) smoked paprika or cayenne for garnish, optional

Instructions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with the mayonnaise until smooth and well combined.
2. Stir in the shredded cheddar, chopped pimentos, diced onion, chopped jalapeño or hot sauce if using, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly distributed.
3. Fold in the chopped chives, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl, smooth the top, and refrigerate at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld; the dip can be made up to 24 hours ahead.
5. Before serving, sprinkle smoked paprika or cayenne over the top if desired and serve with crackers, toasted bread, celery sticks, or use as a sandwich spread.