If you’ve never tried this Southern classic, let me introduce you to a real game changer: the Pimento Cheese Recipe. This delightfully creamy, cheesy spread packs a punch with its sharp cheddar and just the right zing of cayenne and garlic. Whether you’re looking for a flavorful appetizer, a sandwich upgrade, or simply a snack that feels like a warm hug, this recipe hits all the right notes. It’s one of those timeless dishes that feels like comfort food but with a touch of elegance, and I promise it’s addictive in the best way possible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Pimento Cheese Recipe so irresistible are the simple yet carefully balanced ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s in building the creamy base, adding texture, or layering the flavors.

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The star of the show, offering bold flavor and that irresistible melty texture.

1 cup cream cheese, softened: Provides a smooth, creamy foundation that binds everything together.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds moistness and a touch of tang, keeping the spread lush and spreadable.

1/2 cup diced pimentos, drained: These sweet red peppers bring a pop of color and a mild, zesty bite.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle savory note that complements the cheese perfectly.

1 teaspoon onion powder: Introduces a gentle sweetness and depth without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adjust this depending on your heat preference for a hint of warmth that wakes up the palate.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the overall flavor.

How to Make Pimento Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Create the Creamy Base

Begin by combining the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon to blend them together until you get a smooth and creamy consistency. This base is what makes the texture of your spread perfectly luscious.

Step 2: Mix in the Cheddar Cheese

Now, fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This is where the recipe gains its bold, cheesy character. Make sure to mix until the cheddar is well incorporated but still retains some texture so every bite has that delightful cheesy bite.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Pimentos

Next up, gently fold in the diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Be sure to distribute these ingredients evenly throughout the mixture to ensure every spoonful bursts with flavor and a tiny kick of heat.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Give your pimento cheese a quick taste test and adjust the seasoning if you feel it needs a little extra salt or cayenne pepper. This step personalizes the spread to your liking, balancing creaminess with spice.

Step 5: Chill to Meld Flavors

Transfer the pimento cheese to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling allows the flavors to marry beautifully and deepens the taste for a truly delicious finish.

How to Serve Pimento Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your pimento cheese, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley on top. A dash of smoked paprika or a few extra pimento pieces can add visual appeal and a flavor boost that makes the presentation pop.

Side Dishes

This spread pairs wonderfully with crisp vegetables like celery or cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch. It also works brilliantly alongside kettle-cooked chips, pickles, or as part of a Southern-inspired charcuterie board with cured meats and fruits.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t just settle for scooping it onto crackers. Use it as a sandwich filling paired with crisp bacon or ripe tomatoes, or stuff it inside jalapeños for a fiery snack. You can even warm it slightly and use it as a dip for warm pretzel bites or soft breadsticks. The Pimento Cheese Recipe is incredibly versatile and begs to be enjoyed in new, delicious ways.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, simply store your pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and flavorful for up to one week, making it convenient for quick snacks or last-minute gatherings.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t generally recommended for this recipe because the texture of cream cheese and mayonnaise can change upon thawing, potentially becoming a bit watery. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within the week.

Reheating

Since pimento cheese is traditionally served cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you want to warm it up, do so gently in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until just melted, keeping an eye to avoid it separating.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses in this Pimento Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, you can experiment with smoked cheddar, pepper jack for some heat, or even a blend of cheeses to create your unique spin. Just remember that the flavor and texture will vary with different cheeses.

How spicy is this recipe, and can I adjust the heat?

The recipe includes cayenne pepper, which adds a mild to moderate heat. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the cayenne or by adding a pinch of smoked paprika or hot sauce to suit your taste.

Is pimento cheese healthy?

Pimento cheese is rich and flavorful but also calorie-dense due to the cheeses and mayonnaise. It’s perfect in moderation as a treat or party food, but pairing it with veggies or whole-grain crackers can help balance things out.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

You can try substituting cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based alternatives, and use a vegan mayo to create a dairy-free version. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will differ, but it’s a great option for dietary needs.

What are some traditional Southern ways to use pimento cheese?

Besides spreading it on crackers or sandwiches, Southerners love using pimento cheese as a filling for deviled eggs, topping for burgers, or even as a layer in grilled cheese sandwiches. Its versatility makes it a staple in many Southern homes.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have this fantastic Pimento Cheese Recipe in your repertoire, get ready to delight your family and friends with every bite. This simple yet flavorful spread brings that perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness you’ll want to enjoy again and again. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll become your go-to for gatherings, snack time, and those moments when you just need a little comfort on a cracker.

Pimento Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 14 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Yield: Approximately 2 cups 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

Print Recipe

Description

A classic Southern-style pimento cheese recipe featuring sharp cheddar, creamy mayonnaise, and a hint of cayenne pepper for a slightly spicy kick. Perfect as a spread for crackers, sandwiches, or vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup diced pimentos, drained

Seasonings

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

Combine cream cheese and mayonnaise. In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise with an electric mixer or wooden spoon until smooth and creamy.
Add cheddar cheese. Mix in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until well incorporated.
Fold in pimentos and seasonings. Gently fold in the diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper, ensuring even distribution.

Taste and adjust seasoning. Sample the mixture and add more salt or cayenne pepper if a stronger flavor or more heat is desired.
Refrigerate to meld flavors. Transfer the pimento cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Serve and enjoy. Serve chilled with crackers, fresh vegetables, or as a sandwich spread.

Optional additions. Enhance the flavor by adding chopped green onions or a splash of hot sauce if preferred.
Storage. Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to one week.
Enjoy your homemade pimento cheese! Perfect for gatherings, snacks, or as a versatile condiment.

Notes

Adjust the cayenne pepper level to suit your spice preference.
Using sharp cheddar cheese gives the best flavor, but you can experiment with other cheese varieties.
Allowing the mixture to chill for at least an hour enhances the flavor melding.

Pimento cheese can be used in sandwiches, as a dip, or even melted in grilled cheese sandwiches.
Keep refrigerated and consume within a week for optimal freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Snack, Spread
Method: No-cook, Mixing

Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30g)
Calories: 110 kcal

Sugar: 0.5 g
Sodium: 180 mg
Fat: 10 g

Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0.1 g

Carbohydrates: 1 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 3 g

Cholesterol: 25 mg

Keywords: pimento cheese, Southern cheese spread, cheddar cheese recipe, snack spread, creamy cheese dip