If you have a soft spot for creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy spreads that capture the heart of Southern comfort food, this Pimento Cheese Recipe is going to become your new obsession. It is a luscious blend of sharp cheddar, creamy cheeses, and just the right touch of pimentos and spices that come together effortlessly to create a dip or spread that’s absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or just want a flavorful snack to brighten up your day, this classic Southern staple delivers big on taste with simple ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pimento Cheese Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen for the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. These staples work beautifully together to yield a spread that’s creamy, cheesy, and vibrant.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Sharp cheddar brings bold flavor and a satisfying bite that forms the base of the cheese spread.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds smoothness and moisture to keep the mixture luscious and easy to spread.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: This boosts creaminess and helps bind everything together for a rich texture.
- 1 (4 oz) jar diced pimentos, drained: They contribute sweet, tangy bursts of brightness and a lovely pop of red color.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of savory flavor without overpowering the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a gentle aromatic note to balance the cheese’s sharpness.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Offers a spicy kick for those who like a little heat in their spread.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Pimento Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Cream Cheese and Mayonnaise
Start with a medium mixing bowl where you’ll beat together the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until they are silky smooth and well-blended. This creates the creamy base that will make every bite indulgently soft and spreadable.
Step 2: Add Your Cheddar and Pimentos
Next, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the diced pimentos that have been drained to avoid any extra moisture. These ingredients provide texture and that signature tangy and sweet flavor burst that makes pimento cheese so addicting.
Step 3: Season It Up
Now is the moment to sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if you want some heat, plus salt and freshly ground black pepper. Give it all a good stir until evenly mixed, ensuring every forkful is full of well-rounded flavor.
Step 4: Chill and Meld Flavors
Cover your bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least one hour. This resting time is key because it allows the flavors to melt into one another creating a harmony of cheesy, spicy, and sweet notes that taste even more delicious after chilling.
How to Serve Pimento Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a few whole pimentos on top can add an inviting look to your pimento cheese. You can also add a few sprigs of fresh parsley or chives for a fresh herbal touch and pop of color.
Side Dishes
Pimento cheese is famously versatile. Serve it with classic accompaniments like crunchy celery sticks, buttery crackers, or crisp tortilla chips for dipping. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and cucumber or piled into sandwiches and sliders for a Southern twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Use this Pimento Cheese Recipe as a flavorful filling for deviled eggs, stuff it inside roasted jalapeño poppers, or spread it over warm toasted bread and broil for a quick cheesy appetizer. It’s also fantastic as a topping for burgers or baked potatoes, adding a rich burst of cheesy goodness wherever you serve it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pimento cheese keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s well sealed to maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavor so you can enjoy it again whenever cravings strike.
Freezing
While freezing pimento cheese isn’t generally recommended due to its creamy base—cream cheese and mayonnaise don’t always freeze well—if you must, freeze in small portions and thaw slowly in the fridge. Expect a slight change in texture, and be ready to stir it well before serving.
Reheating
This spread is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you want to warm it slightly, especially when using as a topping or dip, gently heat in the microwave or on the stovetop in short bursts, stirring often to keep it creamy and prevent separation.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Pimento Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, mixing in some sharp white cheddar or even a mild cheese like Monterey Jack can add delightful variation in flavor and creaminess.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe itself is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or vegetables if you’re avoiding gluten completely.
How spicy does the cayenne pepper make the spread?
The cayenne pepper adds just a gentle heat that complements the creamy cheese and tangy pimentos. You can adjust or omit it completely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I make this Pimento Cheese Recipe vegan?
This particular recipe relies heavily on dairy for its creaminess and flavor. For a vegan version, you’d need to substitute vegan cheese, vegan mayonnaise, and cream cheese alternatives, which can yield tasty but different results.
How do I get a smoother texture?
If you prefer a smoother pimento cheese, pulse the mixture briefly in a food processor after combining. This breaks down the cheeses and pimentos a bit more for a spread that’s silky and perfect for dipping.
Final Thoughts
This Pimento Cheese Recipe is a timeless Southern treasure that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. Its creamy texture, cheesy bite, and subtle tang make it a perfect companion to snacks, sandwiches, or party spreads. I can’t wait for you to whip up a batch, share it with your loved ones, and experience a little taste of Southern hospitality in every scoop. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to comfort food too.
Print
Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian,Gluten Free
Description
This classic Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe combines sharp cheddar cheese, creamy mayonnaise, and tangy diced pimentos to create a rich and flavorful cheese spread. Perfect as an appetizer, sandwich filling, or snack, this no-cook recipe is quick to prepare and delivers a creamy, slightly spicy, and savory taste that pairs wonderfully with crackers, celery sticks, or bread.
Ingredients
Cheese Base
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 (4 oz) jar diced pimentos, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Cream Cheese and Mayonnaise: In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Beat these together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps for a consistent base texture.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Season with salt and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the spread is uniform.
- Chill to Blend Flavors: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and improves the texture.
- Serve: Serve the chilled pimento cheese spread with crackers, celery sticks, or use it as a sandwich spread. It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, briefly pulse the mixture in a food processor before chilling.
- Use a blend of sharp white and yellow cheddar cheese to deepen the flavor complexity.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
