If you love the rich, creamy tang of pimento cheese paired with a satisfyingly crunchy bite, you are absolutely going to adore this Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe. These delightful little crisps combine sharp cheddar and Parmesan baked to golden perfection, topped with a luscious homemade pimento cheese spread bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just craving a snack that hits all the right notes, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to pull together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that come together to deliver incredible flavor, texture, and a beautiful vibrant color in every bite. Each item plays a crucial role, from the sharp cheeses that provide depth to the creamy and tangy pimento spread topping the crisps.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The backbone of this recipe, bringing bold, melty goodness and a bright orange hue.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor and contributes to a crispier texture when baked.
- Flour (optional): Helps give the crisps an extra crunch without overpowering the cheese flavors.
- Garlic powder: A subtle hint of savory warmth that enhances the cheesy richness.
- Paprika (optional): For a gentle smoky sweetness and appeal of color.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate all the flavors.
- Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and smoothness in the pimento cheese spread.
- Diced pimentos: Sweet and tangy peppers that brighten the spread and add a pop of color.
- Cream cheese: Elevates the spread by adding richness and silky texture.
- Dijon mustard: Introduces a gentle tang and subtle kick marrying perfectly with the cheese.
How to Make Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your crisps won’t stick and will bake evenly to a perfect golden brown. Having the oven ready upfront makes the whole process smoother and quicker.
Step 2: Make the cheese crisps
In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded sharp cheddar, Parmesan cheese, optional flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Combining these dry ingredients first helps develop a well-balanced flavor and ensures the seasoning is evenly distributed. Then, spoon out about one tablespoon sized piles onto your baking sheet, spacing them at least two inches apart so they don’t merge while baking. Flatten each pile slightly to create uniform discs that will bake evenly.
Step 3: Bake the crisps
Place the prepared sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn golden and the cheese looks bubbly and crisp. Let them cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This cooling step is key to allowing them to harden properly and achieve that irresistible crunch.
Step 4: Prepare the pimento cheese spread
While the crisps are baking and cooling, whip up the decadent pimento cheese spread. In a bowl, combine shredded cheddar, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the spread is creamy and smooth, with all the flavors perfectly blended.
Step 5: Assemble the pimento cheese crisps
Once the crisps are completely cool and crunchy, dollop a generous spoonful of the pimento cheese spread on top of each one. The contrast of the crispy base and the creamy, flavorful topping is what makes this Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe so incredibly special.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Serve the crisps right away as an irresistible snack or party appetizer. Their bold but balanced flavor and delightful texture make them an instant favorite wherever they appear.
How to Serve Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes can elevate your presentation and flavor. Fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or a tiny sprinkle of smoked paprika on top add freshness and a pop of color. You can also consider a light drizzle of hot sauce for those who enjoy a little kick alongside their creamy crisps.
Side Dishes
Pimento Cheese Crisps pair beautifully with fresh veggies, like crunchy celery sticks or crisp cucumber slices, to balance the richness. A fresh green salad or a small bowl of pickled jalapeños can add zing and contrast to the creamy, cheesy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching appetizer platter, arrange the crisps on a wooden board surrounded by colorful veggies, olives, and cured meats. Alternatively, serve the pimento cheese spread in a small bowl alongside plain crackers so guests can build their own bites. You might also try layering the spread between two crisps for bite-sized sandwiches that are perfect for snacking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover pimento cheese crisps, store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep the crispness intact for up to two days. Refrigerating the crisps can make them lose their crunch, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh.
Freezing
Because these crisps rely on their crisp texture, freezing is not recommended as it tends to make them soggy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the pimento cheese spread separately in a sealed container for up to one month and thaw it in the fridge when ready to use.
Reheating
To revive slightly softened crisps, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 3-5 minutes. This helps restore some crunch without melting the cheese spread topping if you add it after warming.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you skip the optional flour or make sure to use a gluten-free flour alternative. The crisps themselves consist primarily of cheese, so they fit perfectly into a gluten-free diet when prepared thoughtfully.
What kind of cheese works best for the crisps?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor and melting properties, complemented by salty Parmesan which adds crispiness and depth. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses with additives that might affect texture—grating fresh cheese yields the best results.
Can I prepare the pimento cheese spread in advance?
Definitely! The spread can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld more deeply, making the spread even tastier when served atop the crisps.
How do I keep the crisps from sticking to the baking sheet?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat. These non-stick surfaces ensure the crisps bake evenly and release easily without breaking apart.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
100%! The Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe is a fantastic appetizer for gatherings because it’s easy to eat, packed with flavor, and visually appealing. It’s sure to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
This Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe is a total game-changer when it comes to sharing that classic Southern favorite with a fun, crispy twist. It’s quick to make, irresistibly tasty, and perfect for any occasion where good food and good company come together. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that delicious crunch with creamy pimento cheese topping for yourself!
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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: Southern American
Description
Pimento Cheese Crisps are a delightful, savory snack featuring crispy baked cheese discs topped with a creamy pimento cheese spread. Perfect as an appetizer or party bite, these crisps combine sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and a flavorful blend of seasonings for the crisps, paired with a creamy, tangy pimento cheese topping made with mayonnaise, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, they offer a satisfying crunch and rich cheesy flavor.
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 ensure the crisps don’t stick and bake evenly.
- Make the crisps: In a medium bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, optional flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended. Spoon small piles (about 1 tablespoon each) of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each pile slightly into discs to promote even baking.
- Bake the crisps: Bake the cheese discs in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let the crisps cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely and crisp up further.
- Make the pimento cheese spread: In a separate bowl, mix together shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined to create a creamy spread.
- Assemble the pimento cheese crisps: Once the cheese crisps are fully cooled and crisp, top each crisp with a dollop of the prepared pimento cheese spread, ensuring each bite is flavorful and creamy.
- Serve: Serve the pimento cheese crisps immediately as a tasty, savory snack or appetizer, perfect for gatherings or casual nibbling.
Notes
- Flour in the cheese crisps is optional but helps add extra crunch.
- Ensure the cheese crisps are fully cooled before adding the spread to keep them crisp.
- Adjust seasoning in the pimento cheese spread according to taste.
- For a spicier twist, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the spread.
- Store any leftover spread separately in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days.
