If you’re searching for a snack that’s both irresistibly cheesy and packed with Southern charm, look no further than this Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe. These crunchy, golden crisps topped with a creamy, tangy pimento cheese spread create the perfect balance of savory flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a comforting bite, this recipe offers a delightful twist on classic pimento cheese that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe lies in its straightforward, kitchen-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from adding depth and sharpness to the cheese blend to enhancing the crunch and flavor complexity. Below is everything you’ll need to bring this recipe to life.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the dish, bringing rich, tangy cheesiness vital for both the crisps and the spread.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the crisp’s taste.
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional): Helps give the crisps extra crunch and structure.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle, savory hint that rounds out the cheese’s flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional): Offers a gentle smoky note to enhance taste and add color.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly across the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick for complexity.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for spread): More cheese to ensure the spread is creamy and vibrant.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Gives the spread rich creaminess and helps blend all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained: Classic pimento bits bring sweetness and the iconic flavor punch.
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened: Adds a silky texture and a touch of tang to the spread.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Injects a mild sharpness that livens up the cheese spread.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To season the spread perfectly, tailored to your preference.
How to Make Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the crisps to golden perfection without burning. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. A well-prepped baking sheet means your crisps will slide right off without a fight.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture for Crisps
In a medium bowl, combine your sharp cheddar, Parmesan, flour (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until fully mixed, ensuring each crisp gets a balanced punch of flavor. This blend is what gives your crisps that amazing cheesy taste with a hint of spice that sets them apart.
Step 3: Form and Bake the Crisps
Spoon out small piles — about a tablespoon each — onto your baking sheet. Space them about two inches apart to allow room for spreading as they bake. Gently press each pile into a thin disc so they bake evenly and get that perfect crispiness. Bake in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes until your crisps are bubbling and beautifully golden. Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to ensure they crisp up fully.
Step 4: Mix Up the Pimento Cheese Spread
While your crisps are cooling, whip up the luscious pimento cheese spread. In a bowl, blend the shredded cheddar cheese with mayonnaise, diced pimentos, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is smooth and perfectly combined. This spread is creamy, tangy, and packed with the robust flavors that make pimento cheese so beloved.
Step 5: Assemble Your Pimento Cheese Crisps
Once your crisps have cooled completely and hardened into satisfying little rounds, top each one generously with a dollop of your homemade pimento cheese spread. The contrast between the crunchy base and the creamy topping is pure heaven in every bite.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these delightful crisps immediately to enjoy their optimal crunch and freshness. They’re an excellent snack or appetizer that’s sure to become a crowd favorite, offering irresistible Southern comfort with every mouthful.
How to Serve Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh chopped chives, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or thinly sliced green onions can add beautiful color and an extra punch of flavor. Adding a few small pickled jalapeños on top can also introduce a spicy kick that many love with this recipe.
Side Dishes
Pimento Cheese Crisps shine on their own, but pairing them with crunchy fresh veggies, a tangy coleslaw, or a chilled glass of sweet iced tea brings the whole experience to life. For a heartier spread, plate them alongside charcuterie or a fresh garden salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party-ready presentation, arrange crisps on a beautiful wooden board topped with ramekins of extra pimento cheese spread or crunchy pickles. You could also serve crisps layered with a slice of ripe tomato and a basil leaf for a creative twist that showcases fresh seasonal flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the crisp bases and pimento cheese spread separately to preserve texture. Keep the crisps in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge if your kitchen is warm, and refrigerate the spread in a sealed jar or bowl.
Freezing
While the crisps are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cheese base mixture in small portions before baking to save time. Defrost them in the fridge and bake fresh when ready. The pimento cheese spread doesn’t freeze well due to its mayonnaise content.
Reheating
Reheat the baked crisps briefly in a warm oven or toaster oven to restore their crisp texture, but avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. Always add the pimento cheese spread fresh after reheating for the best flavor and texture contrast.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Sharp cheddar is traditional for a reason, but feel free to experiment with smoked gouda or pepper jack for a fun twist. Just remember that these cheeses melt differently, which might impact crispiness.
Is there a way to make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply omit the flour or substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend. The crisps will still hold together nicely thanks to the cheeses’ natural binding properties.
How long do the crisps stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, the crisps maintain their best texture for up to two days. Beyond that, the crunch starts to fade.
Can I prepare the spread ahead of time?
Definitely. The pimento cheese spread tastes even better after flavors meld for a few hours. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bring it to room temperature before serving for optimal creaminess.
What can I serve instead of pimentos?
If you don’t have pimentos handy, roasted red peppers work beautifully as a substitute. They offer similar sweetness and color, keeping the character of the spread intact.
Final Thoughts
This Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines crunchy, cheesy goodness with that iconic Southern spread in one bite-sized delight. Once you try making these at home, they’ll quickly become a go-to snack for gatherings, game days, or whenever you want a little comfort with a kick. Give it a whirl—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Pimento Cheese Crisps are a delightful savory snack featuring crispy baked cheese discs topped with a creamy, tangy pimento cheese spread. These bite-sized crisps combine sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses baked until golden, paired with a smooth mixture of cheddar, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Perfect for entertaining or as a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Cheese Crisps
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for added crunch)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pimento Cheese Spread
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make the crisps: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, optional flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create an even cheese mixture. Spoon small piles, about 1 tablespoon each, onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each pile into thin discs to help them bake evenly and crisp up.
- Bake the crisps: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheese crisps are golden brown and bubbling. After baking, allow the crisps to cool slightly on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely and achieve maximum crispiness.
- Make the pimento cheese spread: In a clean bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly blended to create a creamy and flavorful spread.
- Assemble the pimento cheese crisps: Once the cheese crisps have fully cooled and become firm, top each crisp with a generous dollop of the pimento cheese spread, ensuring each bite has the perfect balance of crunchy and creamy textures.
- Serve: Serve the assembled pimento cheese crisps immediately as a savory appetizer or snack. Enjoy their bold flavors and satisfying crunch at parties, gatherings, or as a delightful treat anytime.
Notes
- For gluten-free option, omit the flour used in the cheese crisps or substitute with a gluten-free flour alternative.
- Make sure the crisps are completely cooled before adding the spread to preserve their crisp texture.
- The crisps can be baked a day ahead and stored in an airtight container; add the spread just before serving.
- Adjust seasoning in the spread according to taste, adding more or less garlic powder or mustard as preferred.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the paprika in the cheese crisps.
