“`html
If you’re looking for a deliciously cheesy snack that brings a burst of Southern warmth and charm to your table, you’ve got to try this Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe. These golden, crunchy crisps topped with rich, creamy pimento cheese make for an irresistible bite that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to fancy cocktail parties. The perfect balance of sharp cheddar, tangy pimentos, and just a hint of spice creates a flavor that’s truly unforgettable and sure to have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe comes from simple, high-quality ingredients that each play an essential role in achieving perfect taste, texture, and vibrant color. Let’s break down what you need and why:
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: This forms the crispy base and adds that signature, bold cheddar flavor you’ll love.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty depth and helps create a golden, crispy texture once baked.
- Flour (optional): A small addition that gives an extra crunch to the crisps for that perfect bite.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle savory note that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering it.
- Paprika (optional): Brings a hint of smoky warmth and gorgeous color to your crisps.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that balance out the cheese and elevate the flavor complexity.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the pimento cheese spread, adding richness and smoothness.
- Diced pimentos: Those little red gems add sweetness and a pop of color to the creamy topping.
- Cream cheese, softened: Adds a velvety texture and tangy dimension to the spread.
- Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle tang and a gentle kick that rounds out the flavor.
How to Make Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to ensure your crisps won’t stick and bake evenly into beautiful, golden discs.
Step 2: Create the Cheese Base
In a medium-size bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, optional flour, garlic powder, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until you have a cohesive mixture that’s ready to become those delightful crisps.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Crisps
Spoon out tablespoon-sized piles of your cheese mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart to allow for spreading. Gently flatten each mound into a disc shape. Pop them into the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the tops look bubbly. Let the crisps cool on the baking sheet for a moment before transferring them to a wire rack so that they crisp up perfectly.
Step 4: Whip Up the Pimento Cheese Spread
While the crisps are cooling, mix together the spread by combining shredded sharp cheddar cheese, creamy mayonnaise, diced and drained pimentos, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything until smooth and beautifully blended—this spread is the delicious heart of your Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once your crisps are completely cool and crisp, spoon a generous dollop of that luscious pimento cheese spread right on top of each one. These simple little bites are now ready to take center stage at your snack table.
How to Serve Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe
Garnishes
To give your pimento cheese crisps a little extra pop, try garnishing with finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a few halved cherry tomatoes on top not only brightens the plate but also adds lovely freshness that balances the richness of the cheese.
Side Dishes
These crisps pair wonderfully with light and fresh sides. Think crisp garden salads, crunchy pickles, or a zesty tomato-cucumber salsa. They also complement classic Southern staples like fried green tomatoes and deviled eggs, creating a well-rounded spread for any get-together.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve your Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe on a rustic wooden platter with a scattering of colorful veggies or nuts around them. You can also arrange them in little stacks, or serve alongside mini sandwiches or sliders for a fun party platter that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because these crisps disappear fast!), keep the cheese crisps and pimento cheese spread separate. Store the crisps in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve their crunch, and refrigerate the spread in a sealed jar or container.
Freezing
Freezing cheesy crisps can be tricky because moisture can make them soggy when thawed, so it’s best to freeze only the pimento cheese spread if needed. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To refresh leftover crisps, briefly warm them in a hot oven or toaster oven at 325°F (160°C) for a few minutes. This will bring back some crispness. Add the chilled pimento cheese spread fresh just before serving for the best flavor and texture experience.
FAQs
Can I make the crisps gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just skip the optional flour when mixing the cheese base, and you’ll still get wonderfully crispy and tasty crisps that fit gluten-free diets perfectly.
How long do the crisps stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the cheese crisps stay crisp and delicious for up to 2 days. Beyond that, they may begin to lose their crunch.
Can I use different cheeses for the crisps?
While sharp cheddar is classic here, feel free to experiment with other hard cheeses like Asiago or aged Gouda to change up the flavor profile. Just make sure they melt well and are not too moist.
Is the flour really necessary?
Flour is optional and adds a little extra crunch, but you can leave it out if you prefer a purer cheese flavor or need to avoid gluten. Your crisps will still turn out fantastic.
What’s the best way to dice pimentos?
Use jarred pimentos that are already diced to save time and ensure consistent texture. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid watering down the spread.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe that makes it stand out as both a comforting favorite and a unique delight. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or party bite, these crisps are guaranteed to bring smiles and maybe even a little happy conversation around your table. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and share the cheesiest goodness with your friends and family—you won’t regret it!
“`
Print
Pimento Cheese Crisps Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pimento Cheese Crisps are a delightful savory snack combining crispy baked cheese discs with a creamy, tangy pimento cheese spread. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, they offer a satisfying crunch paired with flavorful, cheesy goodness.
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 promote even baking.
- 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 all ingredients are evenly distributed. Spoon out small piles of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart. Flatten each pile gently into discs to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the crisps: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese crisps are golden in color and bubbly. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool briefly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. Let the crisps cool completely to achieve maximum crispness.
- Make the pimento cheese spread: In a separate bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring the flavors meld together.
- Assemble the pimento cheese crisps: Once the crisps are cool and crisp, place a dollop of the prepared pimento cheese spread on top of each crisp. Arrange them on a serving platter for an attractive presentation.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a savory snack or appetizer. These crisps are perfect for parties, gatherings, or a tasty bite anytime you crave cheesy indulgence.
Notes
- Flour in the crisps is optional but helps add extra crunch to the cheese discs.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mix or pimento cheese spread.
- Be sure to let the cheese crisps cool completely to achieve their signature crisp texture.
- These crisps are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days; the crispness may diminish over time.
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter spread.
