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Creamy, Smoky Pimento Dip

Creamy, Smoky Pimento Dip

Creamy, smoky pimento dip is a flavorful and indulgent snack combining velvety cream cheese, roasted pimentos, sharp cheddar, and smoky paprika. This easy-to-make dip offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and smoky warmth, ideal for dipping, spreading, or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Cream Cheese – 8 oz, softened
  • Mayonnaise – 1/4 cup
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese – 1/2 cup, shredded
  • Roasted Pimentos – 4 oz jarred, drained and chopped
  • Smoked Paprika – 1 teaspoon
  • Onion Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Garlic Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt – 1/4 teaspoon or to taste
  • Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon or to taste
  • Hot Sauce (optional) – 1 teaspoon or to taste

Instructions

  1. Soften the Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes until softened. This ensures a smooth blend with other ingredients for the dip’s creamy texture.
  2. Combine Base Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully incorporated, creating a rich and velvety base.
  3. Add the Pimentos and Seasonings: Fold in the chopped roasted pimentos, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently but thoroughly to evenly distribute the smoky, sweet flavors.
  4. Adjust the Flavor: Taste the dip and add hot sauce if desired. Fine-tune the salt and pepper to achieve your preferred flavor balance.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the dip for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and thicken the dip to ideal consistency. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use jarred roasted pimentos for consistent sweetness and soft texture.
  • Softened cream cheese and mayonnaise blend more smoothly, preventing lumps.
  • Use a hand mixer or food processor for an ultra-smooth dip if preferred.
  • Start with less smoked paprika and increase gradually to avoid overpowering smokiness.
  • Chill overnight to boost flavor depth and thicken consistency.
  • The dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing is possible but may alter texture; freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Serve cold or at room temperature; if warming, heat gently in short intervals to prevent separation.

Nutrition

Keywords: pimento dip, smoky dip, creamy dip, appetizer, snack, easy dip, pimento cheese dip