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
Scale
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
