Pimento Cheese Recipe
Southern comfort food has a way of making every gathering feel a little more festive, and this Pimento Cheese Recipe is my go-to for creating that vibe in a snap! Creamy, tangy, and just a little bit spicy if you want it to be, this classic spread is as beloved at tailgates as it is at tea parties. Each bite is a burst of nostalgia, thanks to freshly shredded cheeses and those signature sweet pimentos. Whether you serve it with crunchy crackers, fresh veggies, or slathered between two slices of bread, this Pimento Cheese Recipe is sure to steal the spotlight on any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Pimento Cheese Recipe is how it transforms a handful of familiar ingredients into something truly crave-worthy. Each item brings its own flair—sharpness, creaminess, color, or just the right kick—making every spoonful irresistible.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, freshly shredded): This is the backbone of the recipe, providing bold flavor and that signature orange hue.
- Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup, freshly shredded): Adds a creamy, mellow balance to the sharp cheddar, giving the spread a luscious texture.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Binds everything together for a silky, spreadable consistency—Duke’s or Hellmann’s are classics, but your favorite will work!
- Diced Pimentos (1 jar, 4 oz, drained): The star ingredient, with a sweet, tangy flavor and pop of color that makes the spread instantly recognizable.
- Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle savory depth without overpowering the cheeses.
- Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a gentle sweetness and umami boost.
- Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For just the right amount of Southern heat—adjust to your liking, or leave it out if you prefer mild.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Grounds the flavors and adds a touch of warmth.
- Salt (to taste): Enhances every ingredient—just a pinch is often enough, since the cheeses bring plenty of flavor.
How to Make Pimento Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Shred the Cheeses
Start by shredding your sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses by hand. Trust me, freshly shredded cheese is a game-changer here. Pre-shredded versions often have additives that can affect the creaminess, but when you grate your own, you get that dreamy melt-in-your-mouth texture every true Pimento Cheese Recipe deserves.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine your mountain of cheddar and Monterey Jack with the mayonnaise. Stir until everything looks well-coated and creamy. The mayo is the silky glue holding this whole Southern masterpiece together, so don’t be shy with your spatula—get every bit blended!
Step 3: Add the Flavor Makers
Next, fold in the diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if you like a little kick), black pepper, and a pinch of salt. This is where the magic happens! The pimentos add color and tang, while the spices wake up the cheese and mayo with savory, slightly spicy notes. Give it all a good stir so the pimentos are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Spoon up a little taste and see if it’s just right. Want more heat? Sprinkle in a dash more cayenne. Need a punch of salt? Add another pinch. The beauty of this Pimento Cheese Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Once you’re happy, cover the bowl.
Step 5: Chill for Best Flavor
Let your mixture chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This not only gives the flavors time to meld, but also helps the spread firm up for perfect scooping and spreading. If you’re in a hurry, you can enjoy it right away, but a little patience really pays off here!
How to Serve Pimento Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Dress things up with a sprinkle of chopped chives, a little extra shredded cheese on top, or a dusting of smoked paprika for color and a touch of smoky flavor. Even a few extra diced pimentos make it look irresistible on the platter!
Side Dishes
This Pimento Cheese Recipe is a social butterfly—it pairs beautifully with crunchy crackers, sliced cucumbers, celery sticks, or even crisp apple slices. For heartier fare, try serving it with a basket of warm biscuits or alongside a bowl of tomato soup for a cozy lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the classic spread by stuffing it into mini bell peppers, using it as a grilled cheese filling, or dolloping it onto burgers. My personal favorite: slathered thickly on white bread for the ultimate Pimento Cheese Recipe sandwich. It’s also a hit as a melty dip for fries or tater tots at parties!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep them chilled in the fridge. This Pimento Cheese Recipe stays fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, making it perfect for snacking all week long or prepping ahead for parties.
Freezing
While you can technically freeze pimento cheese, I don’t recommend it—the texture can get a bit grainy once thawed. For the creamiest results, enjoy it fresh from the fridge and make a new batch when the craving strikes.
Reheating
This classic is best served cold or at room temperature, but if you’re using it in a hot dish (like in a grilled cheese), just spread and cook as usual. Otherwise, let it sit out for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to shine.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded cheese in this Pimento Cheese Recipe?
While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can make the spread less creamy. For the best texture and flavor, I highly recommend shredding your own cheese—it really makes a difference!
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Absolutely! You can use a light mayonnaise or even substitute part of the mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lower-fat version. Just keep in mind that the texture may be a bit different, but the Pimento Cheese Recipe still tastes great.
How can I make the Pimento Cheese Recipe spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to add extra cayenne pepper or even mix in a minced jalapeño. A splash of hot sauce can also wake things up with a bold Southern kick!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap the cheeses for your favorite vegan cheese shreds and use a vegan mayonnaise. The result will be a plant-based twist that still captures the creamy, tangy spirit of the original Pimento Cheese Recipe.
What’s the best way to use leftovers?
Leftover pimento cheese is incredibly versatile—spread it on sandwiches, melt it into scrambled eggs, or use it as a dip for pretzels. It even makes a fantastic burger topping or baked potato filling!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about whipping up a batch of homemade Pimento Cheese Recipe and sharing it with people you love. Whether you’re introducing friends to this Southern staple or keeping a stash in your fridge for spontaneous snacking, I hope this creamy, tangy spread becomes a favorite in your kitchen too. Give it a try and let the smiles (and compliments) roll in!
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Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 2 ½ cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Southern Pimento Cheese recipe combines sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with creamy mayonnaise and diced pimentos, seasoned perfectly with garlic and onion powders, cayenne, and black pepper. It’s a versatile, no-cook spread perfect for appetizers, sandwiches, or snacking.
Ingredients
Cheeses
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded
Other Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 (4 oz) jar diced pimentos, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Combine cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine the freshly shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, ensuring they are evenly mixed for the best texture.
- Add seasonings and mayo: Add the mayonnaise, drained diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if using, black pepper, and a pinch of salt into the bowl. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or cayenne pepper to suit your preference for spice and flavor balance.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers, fresh vegetables, or as a flavorful sandwich spread.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less cayenne pepper or mixing in chopped jalapeños for extra spice.
- Store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it keeps well for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
