This creamy pimento dip is packed with sharp cheddar, tangy pimentos, and a touch of spice. The crispy paprika breadcrumbs add a crunchy topping, making it perfect for serving with crackers. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor!
Ingredients Needed:
Crispy Paprika Breadcrumbs:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- Kosher salt
Pimento Dip:
- 1½ cup (6 oz) finely shredded cheddar
- 2 ounces (56g) of cream cheese, at room temperature
- 4-ounce jar of diced pimentos, drained (about 130g)
- ¼ cup (66g) mayonnaise (Duke’s if you can find it)
- Cayenne pepper
- Smoked paprika
- Kosher salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Vinegar-based hot sauce
- Sliced scallions, for garnish
For Serving:
- Saltines or other buttery flaky crackers
How To Make Pimento Dip?
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: Heat olive oil, butter, and smoked paprika in a small skillet over low heat for 5 minutes. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs and cook over medium heat until golden brown and crispy, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.
- Mix the Dip: In a medium bowl, combine cheddar, cream cheese, pimentos, and mayonnaise. Add cayenne, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and hot sauce. Stir everything together until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the dip into a serving bowl, sprinkle with crispy breadcrumbs and sliced scallions, and serve with crackers.
Recipe Tips:
- Shred Your Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has added starches that can make the dip less creamy. For the best texture, grate a block of sharp cheddar yourself.
- Drain the Pimentos Well: Extra liquid from the pimentos can make the dip watery. After draining, pat them dry with a paper towel before mixing them in.
- Use Soft Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese won’t mix well and can leave lumps. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using it for a smooth dip.
- Crisp the Breadcrumbs Properly: Cook the breadcrumbs until they turn golden brown. If they are too pale, they won’t add the crunchy texture that makes this dip special.
- Adjust the Spice to Taste: Start with a little cayenne and hot sauce, then add more if you like it spicier. Mixing in small amounts at a time helps you avoid making it too hot.
How To Store Leftovers?
Let the leftover Pimento Dip cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Keep the crispy breadcrumbs separate to prevent them from getting soggy.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Potassium: 45mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g
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