If you’re looking for an easy and delicious appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests, look no further than Pimento Cheese Bites! These delightful little treats offer a perfect blend of creaminess, cheesy goodness, and a hint of spice – all encased in crispy phyllo cups. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, these mini bites are a fantastic option for parties, game days, or even a cozy gathering at home. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, smooth cream cheese, and zesty pimento creates a flavor explosion that both cheese lovers and casual snackers will adore.
Easy to make and even easier to eat, they offer a fabulous way to present a Southern classic in bite-sized portions. Whether served hot out of the oven or at room temperature, Pimento Cheese Bites are guaranteed to disappear fast from any platter. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity: with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a crowd-pleasing treat that showcases the delightful flavors of the South.
Why You’ll Love This Pimento Cheese Bites
- Super Quick to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes, these bites are perfect for last-minute gatherings!
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy and cheesy filling explodes with Southern flavor that guests will rave about.
- Versatile Appetizer: Serve them warm or at room temperature; they’re perfect for any occasion.
- Vegetarian Friendly: A great choice for vegetarians, making them an inclusive dish for any party.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare the filling a day ahead for a stress-free cooking experience!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking adventure, ensure your kitchen area is clear and your tools are ready. Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out to streamline the process. You’ll need a mixing bowl for combining the filling, a spoon or small cookie scoop for filling the phyllo cups, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Preheat your oven to 350°F, which ensures that your Pimento Cheese Bites will bake to perfection. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients, like sharp cheddar cheese and jarred pimentos, will elevate your dish significantly. Remember, proper preparation is key in cooking, so take your time to have everything in place!
Ingredients
- 2 packages (15 cups per package) phyllo cups
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 4 oz jarred pimentos, drained (reserve 1 tbsp juice)
- 2 tsp yellow onion, grated
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Phyllo Cups
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats, take out two packages of phyllo cups, ensuring you have 30 cups ready for filling. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each cup to allow for even baking. Preparing your phyllo cups this way will give you a perfectly crispy base for your savory filling!
Step 2: Create the Creamy Filling
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and Old Bay seasoning. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend everything smoothly to avoid any lumps. Once the mixture is creamy, gently fold in the jarred pimentos, the reserved juice for extra flavor, grated yellow onion, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s essential to season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Fill the Phyllo Cups
Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, carefully fill each phyllo cup with the cheesy pimento mixture. Be generous with the filling; you want each cup to be bubbling with cheesy goodness when they come out of the oven! Once filled, the cups are now ready to bake.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want to see the cheese melt and the tops become bubbly and lightly golden. Once ready, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. This brief cooling time allows the filling to settle, making it easier to enjoy without burning your mouth.
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham for a savory twist.
- Vegetables: Incorporate diced jalapeños for a bit of heat or chopped spinach for added freshness.
- Spices: Experiment with different seasoning blends to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Cooking Notes
- Always use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth mixture.
- The filling can be made one day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a quicker prep on the day of serving.
- Unbaked filled cups can also be frozen for later use. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- A microplane is perfect for grating onions finely, allowing them to meld easily with the filling.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these Pimento Cheese Bites with a chilled beverage for a delightful snack!
- Accompany them with fresh vegetable sticks or a light salad to balance out the richness.
Tips
- For the best results, avoid using pre-shredded cheese as it doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese.
- Feel free to adjust the levels of spices according to your taste preferences.
- Adding a drizzle of hot sauce on top before serving can surprise guests with an extra kick!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 95
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in the recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other varieties like pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda for unique flavors.
How do I store leftover Pimento Cheese Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the filling and fill the phyllo cups ahead of time. Bake just before your guests arrive for the freshest taste.
What can I serve with Pimento Cheese Bites?
They pair well with fresh veggies, crackers, or a light beverage. Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces for added flavor.
Conclusion
Pimento Cheese Bites are not only a simple and quick appetizer but also a delightfully cheesy treat that brings Southern comfort food to the forefront. Perfect for any occasion, from a casual get-together to a celebratory feast, they’re versatile, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Whether you follow the recipe to the letter or jazz it up with your signature twist, these bites are destined to be a hit! We encourage you to try this easy recipe, share your experience, and don’t hesitate to leave comments or suggestions. Your new favorite appetizer awaits!
Print
Pimento Cheese Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 30 servings 1x
Description
If you’re looking for an easy and delicious appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests, look no further than Pimento Cheese Bites!
Ingredients
- 2 packages (15 cups per package) phyllo cups
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 4 oz jarred pimentos, drained (reserve 1 tbsp juice)
- 2 tsp yellow onion, grated
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats, take out two packages of phyllo cups, ensuring you have 30 cups ready for filling. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each cup to allow for even baking.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and Old Bay seasoning. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend everything smoothly to avoid any lumps. Once the mixture is creamy, gently fold in the jarred pimentos, the reserved juice for extra flavor, grated yellow onion, and sharp cheddar cheese. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, carefully fill each phyllo cup with the cheesy pimento mixture. Be generous with the filling.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese melts and the tops become bubbly and lightly golden. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Notes
The filling can be made one day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a quicker prep on the day of serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 95 kcal
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Protein: 3 g