Description
These irresistible Pimento Cheese Bites are a delightful Southern-inspired snack that’s easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining. Featuring a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, cream cheese, spices, diced pimentos, and sharp cheddar cheese, all nestled in crispy phyllo cups, these bites are baked to golden perfection for a warm, cheesy treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Try flavored mayo for an extra kick.)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Replace with fresh garlic for a more robust flavor.)
- 1 tsp Paprika (Opt for smoked paprika for deeper flavor notes.)
- 1 tsp Old Bay Seasoning (Omit if unavailable or switch with Cajun seasoning.)
- 1/2 cup Jarred Pimentos (Finely diced roasted red peppers make a great substitute.)
- 1/4 cup Yellow Onion (Green onions can be swapped for a fresh taste.)
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Smoked gouda or pepper jack can create unique twists.)
- To taste Kosher Salt (Essential for seasoning.)
- To taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Essential for seasoning.)
Assembly
- 12 Phyllo Cups (Opt for homemade or store-bought for convenience.)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pimento cheese bites.
- Arrange Phyllo Cups: Place the phyllo cups evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure easy cleanup and even baking.
- Mix the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Fold in Additional Ingredients: Gently fold in the drained pimentos (reserve some juice if desired for moisture), the finely grated yellow onion, and the sharp cheddar cheese. Season the mixture well with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Fill the Phyllo Cups: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, evenly distribute the pimento cheese mixture into each phyllo cup, filling them generously.
- Bake the Bites: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the tops have turned an appealing golden brown color.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and allow the bites to cool slightly before serving to enhance flavors and prevent burns. Enjoy your warm, cheesy Southern snack!
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese for a lighter version.
- Try smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning for unique flavor twists.
- Fresh garlic can replace garlic powder for more robust flavor.
- Use homemade phyllo cups for a more artisanal touch or store-bought for convenience.
- Let the bites cool briefly after baking to avoid burning your mouth and to set the filling.
