Description
This Spicy Bacon Pimento Cheese is a creamy, cheesy spread with a perfect kick of heat and smoky bacon flavor, ideal for appetizers, sandwiches, or snack dips. It combines sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheeses with cream cheese, mayonnaise, and spices, finished off with bits of crisp bacon and sweet pimentos for a satisfying, flavorful treat ready in minutes.
Ingredients
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (extra sharp)
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese (extra sharp)
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
Base & Seasonings
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Add-ins
- 4 pieces cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 1 4-ounce jar pimentos (drained)
To Taste
- Sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place all the shredded cheeses, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and onion powder together in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Bacon and Pimentos: Stir in the crumbled cooked bacon pieces and drained pimentos to the cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
- Season and Mix: Season the mixture with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then mix thoroughly until the spread is smooth and well combined.
- Serve or Chill: Serve immediately as a spread or dip, or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- This recipe can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Use extra sharp cheddar for maximum flavor impact.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level to your liking.
- For a smoother spread, pulse in a food processor briefly.
- Serve with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
