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Quick Creamy Pimento Cheese Crostini Recipe for Easy Kentucky Derby Parties

quick creamy pimento cheese crostini - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for creamy pimento cheese spread served on toasted baguette slices, perfect for last-minute Kentucky Derby parties or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200g)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (120ml)
  • 4 ounces jarred diced pimentos, drained (115g)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (115g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 loaf baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch rounds, keeping them similar thickness for even toasting.
  2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast in the oven for 7-9 minutes or until golden and crisp around the edges. Watch closely after 6 minutes to avoid burning.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded sharp cheddar, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and drained diced pimentos.
  4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Start with a pinch and adjust after mixing.
  5. Using an electric mixer or hand whisk, blend the ingredients just until creamy but still slightly textured.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Optionally, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
  7. Once crostini are toasted and slightly cooled, spread a generous dollop of the creamy pimento cheese on each slice without overloading.
  8. Arrange on a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh chives or paprika for color and flavor.
  9. Serve immediately or cover loosely with foil and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving. If refrigerated, let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

If the cheese spread is too thick, stir in 1-2 teaspoons of milk or buttermilk to loosen. Drain pimentos well to avoid a runny spread. Toast baguette just before serving to keep crispness. Optionally add smoked paprika, jalapeños, or fresh herbs for variations. For dairy-free, substitute vegan cream cheese and mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: pimento cheese, crostini, Kentucky Derby, appetizer, party snack, creamy cheese spread, easy recipe