Craving a Kick? Make Our Insanely Delicious Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Dip!
Calling all cheese lovers and spice enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a recipe that will tantalize your taste buds and become your new favorite party appetizer: Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Dip!
This flavorful spread was born out of a simple craving. After sampling a similar dip at a charming bagel shop in Lake Tahoe, my wife was inspired to recreate the magic in our own kitchen. The result? This creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy dip that’s perfect for any occasion.
Serve this Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Dip with toasted bagel slices. The rich and tangy cheese mingles with the subtle sweetness of the pimentos and the zesty kick of the jalapeños, creating an irresistible flavor explosion in every bite.
But this dip isn’t just for bagels! It’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it with pita triangles or tortilla chips for a fun and festive appetizer, or spread it on crackers for a quick and satisfying snack.
Spicy Pimento Cheese Dip for All Occasions
Ready to whip up this delicious dip? Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/3 cup roasted red bell peppers, drained and finely chopped
- 2/3 cup pepper jack cheese, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1-2 dashes cayenne pepper (adjust to your desired spice level)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, stemmed and finely chopped
- 4 chives, chopped fine
- 4 ounces jarred pimentos, drained and chopped
- Minced fresh cilantro and sliced fresh jalapeños (for garnish)
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer (optional)
- Serving spoon
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of readily available ingredients to create this flavorful dip. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. Drain and chop the roasted red bell peppers, pimentos, and pickled jalapeños. Grate the pepper jack cheese and chop the onion and chives.
Step 2: The Mixing Magic
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped roasted red bell peppers, pepper jack cheese, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon, mix until well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Adding the Extras
Now comes the flavor customization! Gently fold in the chopped onion, pickled jalapeños, chives, and pimentos. Taste and adjust: Give the dip a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more cayenne pepper for a spicier kick or additional pimentos and jalapeños for a more pronounced flavor.
Step 4: Chunky or Smooth? The Choice is Yours!
This recipe offers a textural customization option. If you prefer a chunky dip, simply mix the ingredients by hand, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated. However, if you desire a smoother texture, transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse it a few times until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: The Grand Finale: Chill and Serve!
Once you’re happy with the flavor and texture, transfer the Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Dip to a serving dish. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to set slightly.
Serving Suggestions
- Spread the dip on toasted bagels for a delightful breakfast or snack.
- Serve it with pita triangles, tortilla chips, or crackers for an irresistible appetizer.
- Use it as a filling for celery sticks or mini bell peppers for a healthy and flavorful finger food.
Garnish with style! Before serving, sprinkle some minced fresh cilantro and sliced fresh jalapeños over the dip for a pop of color and an extra touch of flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeños and cayenne pepper to your personal spice preference. Start with less and add more to taste.
- Don’t have roasted red bell peppers? You can substitute them with diced sun-dried tomatoes for a slightly different flavor profile.
- For a richer flavor, swap the pepper jack cheese for sharp cheddar or smoked gouda.
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes
- Sciatt with Chicory Salad
- Venetian Cicchetti
- Italian Cheese Fondue
- Spicy Whipped Feta Dip
- Hot Bean Dip
- Smoked Salmon Dip
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Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Dip
Recipe by Jason Hill – CookingSessions.comIngredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/3 cup roasted red bell peppers drained well
- 2/3 cup pepper jack cheese grated
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1-2 dashes cayenne pepper or more to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños stemmed and drained well
- 4 chives chopped fine
- 4 ounces pimentos drained
- Minced cilantro and sliced fresh jalapenos for garnish
For serving
- Tortilla chips, toasted bagels or pita triangles for serving
Instructions
- Blend everything but chives and pimentos together by hand, or in a food processor.
- After done, stir in the pimentos and chives for texture. Add salt to taste.
- Serve warm with grilled white pita bread triangles, toasted bagels or tortilla chips.
