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
Scale
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
