Get ready to transform your appetizer game with this mouthwatering Tex-Mex Pimento Cheese that will have your guests begging for the recipe! In just 10 minutes, you'll create a creamy, spicy, and utterly irresistible dip that perfectly blends the richness of cream cheese, the sharpness of cheddar, and the zesty kick of hot sauce. Whether you're hosting a game day party, looking for a quick snack, or wanting to impress your friends with a restaurant-quality appetizer, this recipe is your ultimate culinary shortcut to deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced pimentos
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 ounces of cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of diced pimentos, 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of hot sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a medium mixing bowl, add the 8 ounces of cream cheese. If the cream cheese is too firm, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften it, making it easier to mix.
- Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. This will serve as the base for your pimento cheese.
- Next, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. You can use sharp, mild, or a blend of cheeses depending on your taste preference.
- Incorporate the 1/2 cup of diced pimentos into the mixture. If you prefer a stronger pimento flavor, you can add a bit more.
- Pour in 1/4 cup of mayonnaise. This will add creaminess to the mixture and help bind the ingredients together.
- Add 1 tablespoon of hot sauce for a kick of heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for added flavor. This will enhance the overall taste of the pimento cheese.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
- Using your mixer or spatula, blend all the ingredients together until they are well combined and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Taste the pimento cheese and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more hot sauce, salt, or pepper to suit your preference.
- Once everything is mixed well, transfer the Tex Mex pimento cheese to a serving bowl. You can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes if you prefer it cold, but it can also be served immediately.
- Serve the pimento cheese with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Tex Mex pimento cheese!
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Let your cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheese combinations - try a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for complex flavor.
- Spice Control: Adjust the hot sauce to your personal heat preference. Start with less and add more gradually.
- Chill for Intensity: While you can serve immediately, letting the dip chill for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Serving Suggestions: Beyond chips, try this as a spread on sandwiches, a topping for burgers, or a dip for fresh vegetables.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a perfect make-ahead appetizer.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
