If you’re looking to elevate your cheese game, this bold and smoky Pimento Cheese with crispy paprika breadcrumbs is an absolute must-try. It’s creamy, tangy, and has just the right amount of crunch to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it with crackers, spreading it on toast, or just grabbing a spoon (no judgment), this recipe is a flavor bomb waiting to happen.
Pimento Dip Recipe by Chef Gordon Ramsay
Ingredients
Crispy Paprika Breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- Kosher salt
Pimento Dip
- 1½ cup (6 oz) finely shredded cheddar
- 2 ounces (56g) cream cheese, at room temperature
- 4 ounce jar diced pimentos, drained (about 130g)
- ¼ cup (66g) mayonnaise (Duke’s if you can find)
- Cayenne pepper
- Smoked paprika
- Kosher salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Vinegar-based hot sauce
- Sliced scallions, for garnish
For Serving
- Saltines or other buttery flaky crackers
Instructions
Make the Crispy Paprika Breadcrumbs
- First, let’s create that irresistible crunch. Grab a small skillet and set it over low heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, a knob of butter, and a generous sprinkle of smoked paprika. Let them mingle over the heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the oil to soak up all that deep, smoky flavor.Now, toss in the panko breadcrumbs and give them a good stir with a spatula, making sure they get coated in all that buttery, paprika-infused goodness. Turn the heat up to medium and keep stirring—watch as they transform into a golden, crispy topping in just a couple of minutes.Once they’re beautifully toasted, transfer them to a plate and let them cool. (Resist the urge to snack on them... or don’t. They’re that good.)
Whip Up the Creamy Pimento Cheese
- In a medium mixing bowl, throw in:✔ Sharp cheddar cheese – for that bold, tangy bite✔ Cream cheese – for ultimate creaminess✔ Chopped pimentos – the star of the show, adding a mild sweetness✔ Mayonnaise – to tie it all togetherNow, mix everything with a spatula until it’s smooth and well combined. This is where the magic happens!To kick up the heat, add:✔ A pinch of cayenne pepper✔ A little extra smoked paprika for depth✔ A few dashes of your favorite hot sauceSeason with salt and pepper, give it another stir, and most importantly—taste. Want it spicier? Add more cayenne. Need extra tang? A splash of hot sauce will do the trick. This is your moment to make it perfect for your taste buds.
Bring It All Together
- Spoon the creamy pimento cheese into a serving dish and shower it with those crispy paprika breadcrumbs. Sprinkle some chopped chives over the top for a fresh pop of color and flavor.Serve it immediately with crackers, toasted bread, or even as a dip for veggies. If you somehow have leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
FInal Words
This isn’t just pimento cheese—it’s next-level pimento cheese. The contrast between the creamy, spicy spread and the crunchy, smoky breadcrumbs is unbelievably good. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, this is the kind of dish that disappears fast.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a spoon and dive in!