Pimento Cheese Bites

Bring a Southern classic to your party table with these Pimento Cheese Bites—mini, buttery pastry cups filled with rich, tangy pimento cheese and baked until golden and gooey. They’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for everything from brunches and baby showers to tailgates and holiday spreads.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic Southern Flavor – The bold, cheesy bite of pimento cheese, served warm and toasty.
Easy to Prep – Just mix, fill, and bake—done in under 30 minutes.
Party-Perfect – Ideal for passing, popping, and sharing.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep the filling or even freeze before baking.
Versatile – Use pie crust, phyllo shells, or puff pastry depending on your style.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pimento Cheese:

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup diced pimentos, drained
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Pastry Bites:

• 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust or puff pastry (thawed)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mini muffin tin
• Rolling pin
• Round cookie cutter or glass (2½-inch)
• Piping bag or spoon
• Mixing bowl and spatula
• Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pimento Cheese
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and mayonnaise.
Mix until creamy, then fold in diced pimentos, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
Refrigerate while you prep the pastry for easier scooping.

Step 2: Prepare the Crusts
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Unroll the pie crust or puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
Use a round cutter or glass to cut out circles.
Press each round gently into a mini muffin tin to create little cups.

Step 3: Fill & Bake
Spoon or pipe about 1 tablespoon of the pimento cheese mixture into each pastry cup.
Brush the edges with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake for 14–17 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Let cool slightly before removing from the tin.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature on a party platter.

Tips for the Best Pimento Cheese Bites
Use Sharp Cheddar – The bold flavor cuts through the creamy base.
Drain Pimentos Well – Avoid a watery filling by patting them dry.
Chill the Filling – Cold filling is easier to pipe or scoop cleanly.
Don’t Overfill – Keep the filling just below the rim so it doesn’t spill over.
Make a Double Batch – These go fast!

Serving Suggestions
Brunch Appetizer – Add to a brunch spread with fruit, mini quiches, and mimosas.
Game Day Snack – Pair with chips, sliders, and cold drinks.
Southern Grazing Board – Serve alongside deviled eggs, fried pickles, and cornbread bites.
Holiday Appetizer – Add festive garnish like red pepper jelly for a holiday twist.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigerate:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat:
Oven – Bake at 325°F for 8–10 minutes until warmed through.
Air Fryer – Crisp them at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
Microwave – Use 20-second intervals (texture may soften slightly).

Freeze Before Baking:
Assemble bites and freeze unbaked in the tin. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag.
Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes to bake time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pimento cheese?
Yes! Choose a thick, spreadable one—not runny—for the best baking results.

2. What’s the best crust to use?
Pie crust gives a buttery bite, while puff pastry adds a flakier, airy texture. Phyllo cups are also a quick option.

3. Can I add extra ingredients?
Definitely! Stir in cooked bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or chopped scallions for variation.

4. Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes—just use a gluten-free pastry or crust.

5. Can I serve these cold?
They’re best warm, but still tasty at room temperature. You can chill leftovers and reheat when needed.

Final Thoughts
These Pimento Cheese Bites are everything you want in a party snack—rich, creamy, cheesy, and just a little bit Southern. Whether you serve them at a gathering or enjoy a few with your lunch, they’re the perfect combination of comfort and convenience.
Simple to make and sure to please, they’ll become a go-to recipe for every occasion.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Southern-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Bite, Approx.):
Calories: 125 | Protein: 3g | Carbs: 6g | Fat: 10g | Sugar: 1g | Sodium: 180mg

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