If you love creamy, cheesy appetizers with plenty of Southern-inspired flavor, this Oven-Baked Pimento Cheese is a recipe you need to try. Warm, bubbly, rich, and incredibly easy to prepare, this baked cheese dip takes classic pimento cheese and turns it into an irresistible party appetizer.
Sharp cheddar cheese, creamy mayonnaise, tangy pimentos, and a little garlic are baked together until hot and golden around the edges. The result is a warm dip that’s perfect for spreading over crackers, toasted bread, crostini, or your favorite crunchy vegetables.
Unlike traditional chilled pimento cheese, this baked version is especially comforting and makes an excellent choice for game-day gatherings, holiday parties, potlucks, and casual family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Pimento Cheese
This easy appetizer comes together with simple ingredients and requires very little preparation.
- Creamy and cheesy
- Warm and comforting
- Easy to prepare
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Perfect for parties and gatherings
- Great with crackers, bread, and vegetables
- Easy to customize with your favorite flavors
If you’re looking for an easy party appetizer that can be prepared ahead of time, this baked pimento cheese is an excellent choice.
Ingredients
For approximately 8 servings, you’ll need:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 jar (4 ounces) diced pimentos, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
How to Make Oven-Baked Pimento Cheese
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a small 8-inch baking dish or similar oven-safe casserole dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
Place the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl.
Add the mayonnaise and mix until smooth and creamy.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
For the best flavor and texture, freshly shred the cheddar cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese.
Step 3: Add the Pimentos and Seasonings
Drain the pimentos thoroughly before adding them to the bowl.
Stir in the diced pimentos, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, salt, green onions, and fresh parsley.
Mix until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Step 4: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Spoon the pimento cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Spread it evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
The extra cheese creates a delicious golden, bubbly topping as the dip bakes.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven.
Bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the edges are bubbling.
For a more golden top, switch the oven to broil during the final 1 to 2 minutes. Watch it carefully because the cheese can brown quickly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the baked pimento cheese from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes.
Sprinkle the top with chopped green onions or fresh parsley.
Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, pita chips, celery sticks, carrots, or tortilla chips.
Tips for the Best Baked Pimento Cheese
Use sharp cheddar. Sharp cheddar provides a stronger flavor that balances the creamy ingredients.
Shred your own cheese. Freshly shredded cheese generally melts more smoothly than packaged shredded cheese.
Drain the pimentos well. Excess liquid can make the dip too watery.
Soften the cream cheese. Room-temperature cream cheese blends much more easily with the mayonnaise and cheese.
Don’t overbake. Bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Overbaking can cause the dip to become oily.
Easy Variations
For a spicy version, add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños.
For smoky pimento cheese, increase the smoked paprika to 1 teaspoon or add a few drops of your favorite hot sauce.
For a bacon version, stir in 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon before baking.
You can also replace part of the cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese for a different flavor and extra meltiness.
For a slightly tangy version, add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard to the mixture.
What to Serve with Baked Pimento Cheese
This creamy cheese dip pairs well with almost anything crunchy.
Try serving it with:
- Buttery crackers
- Toasted baguette slices
- Crostini
- Tortilla chips
- Pretzel crisps
- Celery sticks
- Carrot sticks
- Cucumber slices
- Bell pepper strips
- Toasted pita bread
For a party, arrange the warm dip in the center of a large serving board surrounded by crackers, vegetables, and toasted bread.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes. This is a convenient make-ahead appetizer recipe.
Prepare the cheese mixture and transfer it to the baking dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
When you’re ready to serve, remove the dish from the refrigerator while the oven preheats. Bake until the dip is hot, melted, and bubbling.
You may need to add several extra minutes to the baking time because the dip will be chilled.
How to Store Leftovers
Allow leftover baked pimento cheese to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days.
To reheat, place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring between each interval.
You can also reheat it in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pimento cheese?
Pimento cheese is a creamy Southern-style cheese spread traditionally made with cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. Additional seasonings and ingredients can be added according to personal preference.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheddar usually melts more smoothly and gives the dip a better texture.
Can I make baked pimento cheese spicy?
Absolutely. Jalapeños, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or pepper Jack cheese are all excellent ways to add heat.
What crackers are best with pimento cheese?
Buttery crackers, sturdy wheat crackers, pretzel crisps, and toasted baguette slices all work particularly well because they can hold the thick, creamy dip.
Can I serve this cold?
Yes. Traditional pimento cheese is often served cold, but this particular recipe is especially delicious when served warm and bubbly straight from the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Oven-Baked Pimento Cheese is an easy, creamy, and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. The combination of sharp cheddar, smooth cream cheese, tangy pimentos, and flavorful seasonings creates a warm dip that disappears quickly from the table.
Whether you’re preparing food for a holiday gathering, game-day party, potluck, or casual family night, this easy cheese dip recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser. Serve it with crunchy crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables for a simple appetizer that requires minimal effort.
If you love classic Southern flavors and easy homemade appetizers, this warm baked pimento cheese deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.
