If you love bold, creamy flavors with just the right amount of kick, this Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip Recipe is going to be your new obsession. Combining the rich, velvety texture of pimento cheese with the savory goodness of seasoned sausage and a hint of spicy tomatoes, this dip offers a perfect balance of comfort and excitement. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a casual get-together, or just craving something irresistibly tasty, this Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip Recipe brings a southern charm and hearty twist that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating that creamy, spicy, and savory dip we all crave. The simplicity of these ingredients means you can whip it up in no time, yet the flavors are anything but basic.
- Sausage (1 pound): A flavorful base, preferably Jimmy Dean or your favorite breakfast sausage, providing a hearty, meaty texture.
- Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (10 oz, undrained): Adds a zesty kick and juiciness that brightens up the dish.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, cut into pieces): Gives the dip a luxuriously smooth and creamy foundation that melts just right.
- Pimento cheese (8 oz container): The star of this recipe, offering sharp cheddar flavor with the sweet and tangy pop of pimentos.
How to Make Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding the sausage. Break it apart as it cooks, making sure it’s evenly browned and no longer pink. This step is key because the crumbled sausage creates the hearty texture and meaty flavor that anchors the dip.
Step 2: Combine the Cheeses and Tomatoes
Once the sausage is cooked, drain off any excess grease to keep the dip from getting too oily. Then, stir in the entire can of Rotel (undrained), the cream cheese pieces, and the pimento cheese. The magic happens here as you stir over the heat until the cheeses melt and blend seamlessly with the sausage and tomatoes, creating an irresistibly creamy, spicy mixture.
Step 3: Serve Warm
After everything is melted together and piping hot, it’s time to serve. This dip is best enjoyed fresh and warm straight from the skillet, ready to be scooped up with your favorite tortilla chips.
How to Serve Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this classic dip, think garnishes that add color and extra flavor bursts. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a fresh visual pop and a little bite. You can also add sliced jalapeños for heat if you like things spicy, or a dusting of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Crunchy tortilla chips are a no-brainer, but consider offering an assortment like pita chips, pretzel bites, or crunchy vegetable sticks such as celery, bell peppers, and carrots to balance the richness with some freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the dip in a rustic cast-iron skillet or a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and inviting presentation. You can also portion it into individual ramekins for a chic, elegant touch—perfect for dinner parties or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s usually gone fast), transfer the dip to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Before storing, make sure it has cooled slightly to maintain quality and freshness.
Freezing
This dip freezes reasonably well, making it a great make-ahead option. Freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat your Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip Recipe gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts. Stir frequently to help it re-melt evenly and keep that creamy, luscious texture without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage offers a leaner alternative and works great in this dip without sacrificing flavor. Just cook it the same way you would pork sausage.
Is there a way to make this dip vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the sausage for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture, and keep the rest of the recipe the same for a delicious vegetarian option.
Can I make this dip spicier?
Definitely! Adding extra diced jalapeños, using a spicy Rotel variety, or sprinkling in cayenne pepper will amp up the heat to your liking.
What’s the best chip to serve with Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip Recipe?
Tortilla chips are classic and perfect, but sturdy chips like pita or even sturdy crackers hold up well and offer different textures for dipping.
Can I prepare this dip in advance for a party?
Yes, you can make the dip a day ahead and reheat it before serving. This actually allows the flavors to meld nicely, making it taste even better.
Final Thoughts
This Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make but packs a ton of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a standout appetizer for a party or a cozy snack to enjoy at home, this recipe has you covered. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug — creamy, cheesy, a little spicy, and downright irresistible. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Print
Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pimento Cheese Sausage Dip is a warm, cheesy, and flavorful appetizer perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Combining savory cooked sausage with creamy pimento cheese and spicy Rotel tomatoes creates a rich and comforting dip that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound sausage (such as Jimmy Dean)
Cheeses and Dairy
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, cut into pieces
- 1 (8-oz) container of pimento cheese
Vegetables
- 1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the sausage. Cook the sausage until it is fully browned and crumbled, with no pink remaining. Drain any excess grease carefully to avoid excess fat in the dip.
- Add Cheeses and Rotel: To the cooked sausage in the skillet, add the undrained can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, the cubed cream cheese, and the container of pimento cheese. Stir the mixture continually until the cheeses have completely melted and the dip is smooth and well combined.
- Serve Warm: Once fully melted and blended, transfer the dip to a serving bowl if desired or serve directly from the skillet. Provide tortilla chips for dipping to enjoy this warm, cheesy appetizer.
Notes
- Use high-quality sausage like Jimmy Dean for best flavor.
- Drain the grease well to reduce excess fat and excess oiliness in the dip.
- Serve immediately while warm for the best texture and flavor.
- This dip is great for parties, game day, or casual snacks.
- Can be kept warm in a slow cooker or heated gently on the stovetop if made in advance.
