Preheat the oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or a small foil pan.
Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise together until smooth and uniform.
Season: Stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
Fold the cheese and mix-ins: Fold in 1 cup of the sharp cheddar, all of the white cheddar, the drained pimentos, and two-thirds of the chopped bacon. Stir until evenly distributed.
Assemble: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining sharp cheddar and the rest of the chopped bacon.
Bake: Bake uncovered at 375°F for 20 minutes until the edges are golden and bubbling throughout.
Broil (optional): Switch the oven to high broil for 1–2 minutes to get deeply browned cheese spots on top. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Rest and serve: Cool for 5 minutes before serving warm with butter crackers, kettle chips, or crusty baguette slices
