Description
This Pimento Cheese Shrimp Toast Appetizer is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish combining creamy whipped cream cheese with sharp cheddar, tender cooked shrimp, and roasted red peppers. Perfect as an appetizer, the mixture is spread on toasted baguette slices and broiled until golden and bubbly, delivering a delightful balance of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors with a crispy, savory crunch.
Ingredients
Pimento Cheese Mixture
- 4 ounces whipped cream cheese
- 1 ½ tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon dry mustard
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar, shredded (about 6 oz block)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, coarsely chopped
- ½ cup diced roasted red peppers (or jarred pimentos)
- ¼ cup scallions, diced, plus more for garnish
To Serve
- 1 loaf baguette, thinly sliced (16-20 slices) and lightly toasted
- Pickled red onions (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pimento Cheese Mixture: In the bowl of a small food processor, combine the whipped cream cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Blend until well combined and smooth. Transfer this mixture to a mixing bowl.
- Combine Cheese, Shrimp, and Vegetables: To the cream cheese base, add the shredded sharp cheddar, coarsely chopped cooked shrimp, diced roasted red peppers, and diced scallions. Stir everything together until thoroughly mixed.
- Chill and Adjust Seasoning: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Taste afterward and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Preheat Broiler and Prepare Baking Sheet: Position an oven rack about 5 inches from the broiler coil and preheat the broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Assemble and Broil Toasts: Scoop the chilled pimento cheese shrimp mixture onto each lightly toasted baguette slice, spreading evenly. Arrange the prepared toasts on the foil-lined baking sheet.
- Broil Until Golden: Broil the toasts for 2 to 3 minutes until the tops turn golden brown and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with additional diced scallions or chives, and serve immediately with pickled red onions on the side if desired.
- Alternative Serving Option: Alternatively, spoon the chilled mixture into an oven-safe serving dish and broil for 3 to 5 minutes until bubbly and browned. Garnish with scallions and serve alongside toasted baguette slices for dipping.
Notes
- If using block cream cheese instead of whipped, add extra mayonnaise or a splash of half and half to thin the mixture slightly for easier spreading.
- Roasted red peppers provide a sweet, smoky flavor, but jarred pimentos can be substituted based on preference.
- Keep a close eye under the broiler to prevent burning since cooking times are brief.
- Pickled red onions are optional but add a lovely tangy contrast to the rich appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American