Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Pimento cheese is a beloved Southern classic that’s creamy, tangy, and packed with cheesy goodness. Perfect as a spread, dip, or sandwich filling, this easy recipe brings a touch of Southern charm to any table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated
- 4 ounces (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 (4-ounce) jar of pimentos, drained and finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, optional
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl, then mix in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Step 2: Add the mayonnaise, pimentos, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix until the cheese spread is smooth, uniform in color, and the pimentos are evenly distributed.
- Step 3: Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
- Step 4: Serve your pimento cheese immediately or cover and chill for about an hour. Enjoy it as a sandwich filling, on crackers, or as a party dip.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoother texture, blend the mixture in a food processor briefly before chilling.
- Try adding chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use sharp white cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Mix in a little hot sauce for added depth and heat.
- Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Storage
Store pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, bring it to room temperature and stir well. It can be enjoyed cold or slightly warmed for a softer texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time?
Yes, making it a few hours or even a day ahead lets the flavors meld beautifully. Just cover it tightly and keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
What are the best ways to serve pimento cheese?
Pimento cheese is versatile — serve it as a sandwich spread, on crackers, as a dip with veggies, or even stuffed into celery sticks for a tasty snack.
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Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups (serves 6–8 as a spread) 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A classic Southern pimento cheese recipe featuring a creamy blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese combined with mayo and flavorful seasonings. Perfect as a sandwich spread, cracker topping, or party dip.
Ingredients
Cheeses
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated
- 4 ounces (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened
Other Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 (4-ounce) jar of pimentos, drained and finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and free of lumps. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure an even texture, then add the freshly shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, mixing well to combine.
- Add Flavorings and Mix: Incorporate the mayonnaise, drained and finely chopped pimentos, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Mix thoroughly until the cheese mixture becomes smooth, uniform in color, and the pimentos are evenly distributed throughout.
- Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Sample the pimento cheese mixture and tweak the seasoning as needed for salt, pepper, or spice levels according to your preference.
- Chill and Serve: You can serve southern pimento cheese immediately or cover it and chill in the refrigerator for up to an hour to let the flavors meld. Use it as a sandwich filling, spread it on crackers, or offer it as a tasty party dip.
Notes
- For best texture, use freshly grated cheeses rather than pre-shredded, as they melt and mix better.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference; omit if you want a milder spread.
- Chilling the mixture for an hour allows the flavors to develop more fully.
- This cheese spread keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted bread for delicious snacks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
Keywords: pimento cheese, southern cheese spread, appetizer, cheese dip, party dip, cheese sandwich spread
