Take a nostalgic trip back to the 1970s with this classic holiday cheese dip. Combining bold flavors from pimento spread, deviled ham, and a touch of Worcestershire and Tabasco, this retro appetizer is perfect for parties or family gatherings. Whether served with crackers or chips, this dip’s creamy, savory goodness is sure to spark memories for some and create new ones for others. Chill it before serving for the best flavor and texture—trust us, it’s worth the wait!
Ingredients for Peggy’s Classic Holiday Cheese Dip
- 4 jars Kraft pimento spread (5 oz each) (140 grams each, total 560 grams) (If unavailable, check with your grocer or try a similar brand.)
- 1 can Underwood deviled ham spread (4.25 oz) (120 grams)
- 2-3 tablespoons mayonnaise (your choice; 30-45 grams)
- 3-4 dashes Lea & Perrins Worcestershire sauce (approximately 1 teaspoon or 5 milliliters)
- 1-2 dashes Tabasco sauce (optional, but recommended)
How to Make Peggy’s Classic Holiday Cheese Dip
Add the pimento spread
Scoop all four jars of pimento cheese spread into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Use a spatula to scrape the sides and bottom of the jars to get every bit.
Blend in the deviled ham
Add the can of deviled ham to the bowl. Use a fork to loosely mix it into the cheese spread, ensuring even distribution.
Incorporate the mayonnaise
Stir in the mayonnaise. For a sharper, firmer dip, use less mayo; for a creamier texture, add more. Two heaping tablespoons (about 30 grams) is a great starting point for a balanced consistency and flavor.
Season with Worcestershire
Add 3-4 dashes of Worcestershire sauce (approximately 1 teaspoon or 5 milliliters). Adjust to taste for a hint of savory tang.
Optional: Add Tabasco sauce
If you like a little heat, add 1-2 dashes of Tabasco sauce. This small touch gives the dip a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Blend thoroughly
Mix all the ingredients together until smooth. While a fork can work, a hand mixer makes it easier to blend the deviled ham fully into the dip. Mix for 2-3 minutes to achieve a creamy, uniform consistency.
Chill and serve
For the best flavor, chill the dip in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Pair it with potato chips, crackers, or veggie sticks, and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Retro Recipe
This classic cheese dip is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a unique blend of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors. The pimento spread provides a nostalgic processed cheese base, while the deviled ham adds a hint of smoky richness. The Worcestershire and Tabasco elevate the dip with subtle layers of depth, making it a versatile appetizer that feels just as relevant today as it did decades ago.
Peggy’s Classic Holiday Cheese Dip is more than just a recipe—it’s a piece of culinary history. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this dip is perfect for any festive gathering. Serve it chilled with your favorite dippers, and watch it disappear from the table in no time. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring a bite of nostalgia yourself, this dip is guaranteed to be a hit!
