Smoky Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe

Transforming humble ingredients into a delightful dish is my forte, and this smoky pimento cheese dip is the ultimate party companion that’s bound to steal the spotlight.

This Smoky Pimento Cheese Dip has a wonderful mix of flavors. Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses provide the base, and smoked paprika and cayenne pepper bring a delicious depth and a touch of smoke.

This dip is not only tasty, but it’s also super easy to make. Ingredients: 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese; 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese; 1/4 cup finely chopped roasted red peppers.

Directions: 1. Put the cream cheese and mayonnaise in a large mixing bowl.

2. With a hand mixer, mix on low speed until combined and then on medium speed until smooth.

3. Add the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper; mix to combine.

Smoky Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe Ingredients

• Sharp cheddar cheese: Rich in calcium and protein, provides a tangy flavor.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy texture adds smoothness and mild taste.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creamy richness, with healthy fats and flavor.
• Smoked paprika: Brings depth and smokiness, with a vibrant red color.
• Cayenne pepper: Provides heat, boosts metabolism, adds a spicy kick.

Smoky Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup diced pimentos, drained
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make this Smoky Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe

1. In a big mixing bowl, mix together the sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, both in large shreds.

2. In a bowl, add softened cream cheese and mix until smooth. You can use an electric mixer or a hand mixer to make the job easier and get a better result.

3. Incorporate the mayonnaise, ensuring a creamy uniformity throughout the mixture.

4. Incorporate the diced pimentos, ensuring they are evenly dispersed.

5. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and, if using, cayenne pepper, and mix well.

6. Taste the dip and adjust salt, pepper, and other spices as necessary.

7. Move the mixture to a dish from which you can serve it. Smooth the top with a spatula so that the appearance is as good as it can be. And that’s it for now.

8. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to meld the flavors.

9. Prior to serving, stir the dip thoroughly and modify the seasoning as needed.

10. Chill the smoky pimento cheese dip and serve it with crackers, sticks of vegetable, or as a spread for sandwiches. Enjoy!

Smoky Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Big mixing bowl
2. Medium mixing bowl
3. Electric mixer or hand mixer
4. Spatula
5. Measuring cups and spoons
6. Plastic wrap
7. Serving dish

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of cheese?Certainly! You can replace sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack with Colby or Pepper Jack, or other similar cheeses, for a different flavor experience.
• How long will this dip stay fresh?The dip can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for almost a week. The five-day mark is what I’ve seen in most places, but unless your goal is to supercharge your immune system with the raw garlic (more on that later), I think there’s little chance of it going bad before Day 5.
• Can I make this dip in advance?Indeed, preparing it a day in advance permits the flavors to blend. Simply stir it well before you serve.
• Is there a substitute for smoked paprika?Smoked paprika gives a dish a nice depth of flavor and, in this case, complements the beans very well. If you have it, use it.

  If you don’t have it, no problem.

  You can have your beans and eat them too.

• Can I make this dip spicier?To increase the heat, up the cayenne pepper or fold in some diced jalapeños.
• What do I serve this dip with?This dip goes well with fresh vegetable sticks such as celery and carrots, crackers, and pretzels.
• Is there a dairy-free version?You may play around with substitutes for cheese and mayonnaise that are free from dairy, but you might find that the texture and taste are different.

Smoky Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe Substitutions and Variations

For shredded sharp cheddar cheese, substitute with shredded extra sharp cheddar or a smoked cheddar for added depth.
For shredded Monterey Jack cheese, use Pepper Jack cheese for additional spice or use mozzarella for a more muted flavor.
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option, or sour cream for a tangy alternative.
If you can’t find pimentos, use roasted red peppers instead.
If you lack smoked paprika, use chipotle powder or regular paprika instead.

Pro Tips

1. Grate Your Cheese Properly For the best texture, grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of your dip.

2. Elevate the Flavor For an added depth of flavor, consider lightly toasting the smoked paprika in a dry pan before adding it to the mixture. This can enhance the smokiness and add a subtle richness to the dip.

3. Enhance the Creaminess Ensure that the cream cheese is completely softened before mixing. You can soften it quickly by cutting it into small cubes and letting it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

4. Balance the Heat If you’re sensitive to spice, add the cayenne pepper gradually, tasting as you go. For a unique twist, try adding a hint of fresh jalapeño or chipotle in adobo sauce for a different type of heat.

5. Make Ahead This dip tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Consider preparing it a day in advance for maximum flavor impact.