Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip 

Introduction

There’s something magical about a dish that brings people together, and this Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip is exactly that kind of recipe. Picture this: a bubbling, golden-brown dip packed with creamy, cheesy goodness, smoky sausage, and the unmistakable tang of pimentos. Whether it’s game day, a casual gathering, or just a cozy night in, this dip is destined to be the star of your table.

I first discovered the magic of pimento cheese when visiting a friend in the South. It’s a staple there, often spread on crackers or sandwiched between two slices of bread. But when you elevate it into a warm, melty dip and add savory sausage, it transforms into something truly next-level. My family now requests this dip for every celebration—it’s become a tradition that instantly sparks joy.

Let me walk you through this recipe step by step, sharing tips, tricks, and all the reasons you’re going to fall in love with this irresistible dip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip is packed with flavor, texture, and all-around deliciousness. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

Quick and easy: You only need about 15 minutes of prep time before popping it in the oven.

Crowd-pleasing: The bold flavors of cheese and sausage are universally loved, making this dip perfect for parties or gatherings.

Cheesy perfection: A mix of sharp cheddar, creamy cream cheese, and tangy pimentos creates a flavor-packed base that’s impossible to resist.

Smoky sausage goodness: The addition of sausage gives this dip a hearty, meaty twist. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and packed with protein.

Customizable: Want to add spice? Toss in jalapeños. Prefer it lighter? Use turkey sausage. It’s versatile and fits every palate.

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: 30 minutes

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Servings: Serves 8-10 as an appetizer

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this creamy, dreamy dip:

1 pound turkey sausage or chicken sausage: Cooked and crumbled for a smoky, savory flavor.

8 ounces cream cheese: Softened for easy mixing.

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese: Shredded. The sharper, the better for that bold cheesy taste.

1 cup mozzarella cheese: For meltiness and that gorgeous cheese pull.

1 jar (4 ounces) diced pimentos: Drained. These add a tangy, slightly sweet note.

1/4 cup mayonnaise: For creaminess and to tie everything together.

1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlicky kick.

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky depth of the dish.

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a little heat, if you like it spicy.

Salt and pepper: To taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1st Step: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). You’ll want it nice and hot to create that bubbling, golden crust on top of the dip.

2nd Step: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. Use a wooden spoon to break it into crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease and set aside. If you’re using turkey or chicken sausage, you’ll have less grease to worry about, which makes clean-up even easier.

3rd Step: Mix the Cheesy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella, mayonnaise, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated. Pro tip: If your cream cheese isn’t softened, microwave it for 15-20 seconds to make mixing a breeze.

4th Step: Add the Pimentos and Seasonings

Gently fold in the drained pimentos, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. The pimentos add a pop of color and a burst of tangy flavor that makes this dip so special. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

5th Step: Combine the Sausage and Cheese Mixture

Add the cooked sausage to the cheese mixture and stir until evenly distributed. At this point, you’ll start to see the magic come together—the smoky sausage, creamy cheese, and vibrant pimentos create a mixture that’s almost too tempting to wait for.

6th Step: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Spoon the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish (an 8×8-inch dish works perfectly). Smooth the top with a spatula for even cooking.

7th Step: Bake Until Bubbling

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbling around the edges. For an extra golden, crispy top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes—but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

How to Serve

This dip is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dippers:

Tortilla chips: The classic choice for scooping up all that cheesy goodness.

Veggies: Carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper strips for a lighter option.

Crackers: Choose sturdy ones that won’t break under the weight of the dip.

Toasted baguette slices: Perfect for a slightly fancier presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

Drain the Pimentos: Make sure to drain your pimentos well to avoid adding excess moisture to the dip.

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts. For the best texture, shred your cheese fresh.

Adjust the Spice Level: Not a fan of heat? Skip the cayenne. Love it spicy? Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the dip up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating Leftovers: Reheat leftover dip in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave in short bursts.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for a flavorful twist.

Low-Carb: Serve with cucumber slices or low-carb crackers for a keto-friendly snack.

Extra Smoky: Use smoked cheddar or add a splash of liquid smoke to the mixture.

Herby Touch: Stir in chopped fresh parsley or chives for added freshness.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: This dip freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

FAQ Section

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked sausage works perfectly and can save you time. Just crumble it into the cheese mixture as directed, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for every bite.

Can I make this dip dairy-free?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be dairy-free by substituting the cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives. Be sure to choose ones that melt well for the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat this dip?

Reheating is easy! You can warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly, or microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the dip up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven and bake until hot and bubbling.

What can I use instead of pimentos?

If you can’t find pimentos, roasted red peppers make an excellent substitute. Dice them finely, and they’ll provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor.

Is this dip freezer-friendly?

Yes! Once baked, let the dip cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Can I add other ingredients to customize it?

Absolutely! Some great additions include diced jalapeños for heat, crispy bacon crumbles for extra smokiness, or caramelized onions for a hint of sweetness.

Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?

Yes, doubling the recipe is a great idea for larger gatherings. Use a 9×13-inch baking dish, and you may need to increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s hot and bubbly all the way through.

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Conclusion

This Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration in itself. From its creamy, cheesy base to the savory sausage and tangy pimentos, every bite is a flavor-packed experience that will leave your guests raving.

Whether you’re hosting a game day party, bringing an appetizer to a potluck, or indulging in a cozy night at home, this dip is a guaranteed hit. The combination of rich textures, bold flavors, and easy preparation makes it one of those recipes you’ll return to time and time again.

And the best part? It’s versatile enough to be adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it a true crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make something magical.

I’d love to hear how your Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip turns out! Share your creations with me on social media or in the comments below. Let’s keep spreading the cheesy joy, one irresistible bite at a time.

Now, grab your favorite dippers and dig in—because life’s too short not to enjoy a little extra cheese.