The Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe That’s Crowd-Pleasing

Southern kitchens buzz with excitement when a creamy pimento cheese recipe hits the table.

This Southern staple blends sharp cheddar with tangy cream cheese and vibrant pimentos.

Generations of home cooks have perfected this classic spread that sparks memories of summer picnics and lazy afternoon gatherings.

Each bite carries a rich, velvety texture that melts hearts faster than butter on hot cornbread.

The simple combination of ingredients creates a magical mixture that elevates any gathering from ordinary to extraordinary.

Fresh ingredients make all the difference in crafting this beloved Southern comfort classic.

You’ll want to serve this irresistible spread with crackers, as a sandwich filling, or straight from the bowl with a spoon.

Why Pimento Cheese Is Always a Hit

• Toss everything in a bowl and mix with a hand mixer, making this recipe super simple for busy home cooks.
• Easily adjust spice levels by adding more cayenne or jalapeños to match your heat preference, perfect for personalized flavor.
• Versatile spread works great for parties, game days, or casual gatherings, guaranteed to impress guests with minimal effort.
• Classic Southern recipe that brings nostalgic comfort food vibes to any table, connecting you with traditional home cooking.

Pimento Cheese Ingredient List

• Cheddar Cheese: A sharp and tangy cheese that provides the primary flavor base for the pimento cheese.
• Cream Cheese: Adds a smooth and creamy texture to the spread.
• Pimentos: Soft, sweet red peppers that give a mild, slightly sweet flavor and vibrant color.
• Mayonnaise: Creates a rich and creamy binding for the cheese mixture.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Adds depth and aromatic flavor to the cheese spread.
• Cayenne Pepper: Provides a subtle heat and spicy kick.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Enhances and balances the overall flavor profile.

• Jalapeño Pepper: Brings an extra layer of heat and zesty flavor for those who enjoy spicier pimento cheese.

Tools for Pimento Cheese Prep

• Mixing Bowl: Large, sturdy bowl for combining all ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: Hand or stand mixer for smooth, creamy texture.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements for spices and ingredients.
• Rubber Spatula: Helps scrape sides of bowl and ensure everything is mixed well.
• Serving Bowl: Clean bowl for presenting the finished pimento cheese.

Easy Steps for Pimento Cheese

Step 1: Gather Creamy Cheese Components

Grab sharp cheddar cheese, smooth cream cheese, vibrant pimentos, and tangy mayonnaise from your refrigerator.

Step 2: Blend Cheesy Base

Drop cheese ingredients into a spacious mixing bowl and start combining them with a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon until they begin to merge smoothly.

Step 3: Sprinkle Flavor Enhancers

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper

Gently incorporate these spices throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Consider Spicy Kick

If you enjoy extra heat, finely chop fresh jalapeños and fold them into the cheese blend.

Step 5: Whip Into Creamy Perfection

Use an electric mixer to beat the spread until it reaches a luxuriously smooth and consistent texture.

Step 6: Fine-Tune Seasoning

Taste the pimento cheese and adjust salt and black pepper levels to match your preference.

Step 7: Prepare For Enjoyment

Transfer the spread into a serving bowl, allowing it to sit at room temperature for immediate serving or refrigerate for a chilled experience.

Step 8: Serve And Savor

Accompany the pimento cheese with crackers, fresh vegetables, or use as a delightful sandwich spread.

Pimento Cheese Handy Tips

• Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor and creamy texture that elevates the entire spread.
• Ensure room temperature cream cheese and butter for easier mixing without lumps.
• Start with smaller amounts of cayenne and jalapeño, tasting as you go to manage heat level.
• Avoid overmixing to maintain a slightly chunky consistency that feels authentic and rustic.
• Refrigerate for 2-3 hours before serving to let flavors meld and develop deeper taste profile.

Fun Add-Ins for Pimento Cheese

• Vegan Pimento Cheese: Replace dairy cheese with cashew-based cheese, use vegan mayo, and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
• Herb-Infused Version: Add fresh chopped chives, dill, or parsley for extra herbaceous notes and complexity.
• Low-Fat Option: Swap full-fat cheeses with reduced-fat versions, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for lighter texture.
• Spicy Southwest Spin: Mix in diced green chiles, smoked paprika, and cumin for a southwestern-inspired flavor profile.

Ways to Serve Pimento Cheese

• Southern Comfort Platter: Spread pimento cheese on crispy crackers or toasted baguette slices for a classic Southern appetizer that'll make guests swoon.
• Sandwich Sensation: Layer this creamy spread between soft bread slices with crisp lettuce and tomato for a delightful lunch that beats ordinary sandwiches.
• Veggie Dip Delight: Use as a zesty dipping sauce for fresh cut vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers, adding a tangy kick to healthy snacking.
• Game Day Champion: Serve alongside tortilla chips or as a topping for loaded nachos during sports gatherings, transforming this cheese spread into a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Pimento Cheese Storage Suggestions

• Store in airtight container for up to 5 days, covering surface with plastic wrap to prevent drying.
• Portion in freezer-safe container, seal tightly, and freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before use.
• Remove from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to soften and enhance flavor profile.
• Stir vigorously with spoon to restore creamy texture if separation occurs during storage, adding tiny splash of mayo if needed.

FAQs

• What makes pimento cheese different from regular cheese spread?

Pimento cheese uses a unique combination of cheddar, cream cheese, and diced pimentos, giving it a tangier, more complex flavor profile compared to standard cheese spreads.

• Can I make pimento cheese without mayonnaise?

Mayo is crucial for the creamy texture, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version while maintaining the traditional taste.

• Is pimento cheese a Southern United States specialty?

Yes, pimento cheese originated in the South and is often called the “pâté of the South,” deeply rooted in Southern culinary traditions as a popular sandwich spread and dip.

Pimento Cheese Recipe

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4.7 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Southern pimento cheese delights palates with creamy, tangy goodness. Rich cheddar, mayo, and roasted peppers create a classic spread you’ll crave at any gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Cheese Ingredients:

• 2 cups extra-sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened, cubed

Vegetables and Peppers:

• 4 ounces (113 grams) pimento peppers, drained, chopped
• 1/2 jalapeno, minced (optional)

Seasonings and Condiments:

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Black pepper to taste
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients and a mixing bowl, ensuring cheeses are at room temperature for smooth blending.
2. Crumble cheddar cheese and soften cream cheese to create a uniform base for the spread.
3. Drain pimentos thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the mixture.
4. Add mayonnaise to the cheese blend, creating a creamy foundation for the spread.
5. Incorporate garlic powder and onion powder, distributing spices evenly throughout the mixture.
6. Sprinkle cayenne pepper for a subtle heat, adjusting amount based on personal preference.
7. Finely chop jalapeños and fold into the mixture for an optional spicy kick.
8. Use an electric mixer on medium speed, blending ingredients until completely smooth and well integrated.
9. Taste the spread and season with salt and pepper, making subtle adjustments to enhance overall flavor profile.
10. Transfer the pimento cheese to a serving bowl, smoothing the top with a spatula.
11. Serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop.
12. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

• Opt for room-temperature cheeses to ensure smooth, creamy blending without lumps.
• Select sharp cheddar for bolder flavor or mild cheddar for a more subtle taste profile.
• Drain pimentos thoroughly to prevent excess liquid that could make spread runny.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting cayenne pepper or adding diced jalapeños for extra kick.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg