Pimento Cheese Bites Recipe

Introduction

Pimento cheese bites are a delightful, cheesy appetizer that combines creamy pimento cheese with crispy phyllo cups. Perfect for parties or casual snacking, these bite-sized treats deliver bold flavor in every crunchy mouthful.

Ingredients

• 2 packages (15 cups per package) phyllo cups
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 4 oz jarred pimentos, drained (reserve 1 tablespoon of the juice)
• 2 teaspoons yellow onion, grated
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the phyllo cups on it, spacing them 1–2 inches apart.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, blend together the mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and Old Bay seasoning until smooth.
3. Step 3: Stir in the drained pimentos along with 1 tablespoon of the reserved juice, grated yellow onion, and sharp cheddar cheese. Season the mixture with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Spoon the pimento cheese mixture into each phyllo cup. Using a small cookie scoop can help distribute the filling evenly.
5. Step 5: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the filling is bubbly.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and serve warm as a flavorful appetizer.

Tips & Variations

• For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
• Use different cheeses like pepper jack or smoked gouda for unique flavor twists.
• If you can’t find phyllo cups, mini tart shells or wonton wrappers work well as substitutes.

Storage

Store any leftover pimento cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the pimento cheese mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pimento cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated and stir well before filling the cups.

Can I use fresh pimentos instead of jarred?

Fresh pimentos can be used if available. Roast and dice them before adding, but keep in mind the flavor and moisture level may vary slightly.

Pimento Cheese Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 147 reviews

Pimento Cheese Bites are a delicious and savory appetizer featuring crispy phyllo cups filled with a creamy, tangy pimento cheese mixture. With a blend of sharp cheddar, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning, these bites offer a perfect balance of creamy texture and bold flavor, baked until bubbly and golden brown.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 30 bites 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American Southern

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Phyllo Cups

• 2 packages (15 cups per package) phyllo cups

Pimento Cheese Filling

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 4 oz jarred pimentos, drained (reserve 1 tablespoon of the juice)
• 2 teaspoons yellow onion, grated
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the phyllo cups on it, spacing them at least 1–2 inches apart to ensure even baking.
2. Mix the Base: In a medium bowl, blend together the mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and Old Bay seasoning until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Add the Flavors: Stir in the drained pimentos along with 1 tablespoon of the reserved pimento juice, grated yellow onion, and sharp cheddar cheese. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste, mixing thoroughly.
4. Fill the Cups: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, evenly fill each phyllo cup with the prepared pimento cheese mixture, ensuring each cup is generously stuffed but not overflowing.
5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese melts fully and the filling becomes bubbly and heated through.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly, then serve these warm, cheesy bites as a perfect savory appetizer for any gathering or party.

Notes

• Phyllo cups can be found in the frozen section of most grocery stores; thaw them before use if frozen.
• If you prefer a spicier bite, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
• For extra crispiness, broil the filled cups for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
• Leftover pimento cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Use freshly grated sharp cheddar for the best flavor and texture.

Keywords: pimento cheese bites, phyllo cups appetizer, cheesy appetizers, bite-sized snacks, party appetizers, baked pimento cheese