Description
This classic Southern Pimento Cheese recipe is a creamy, tangy, and mildly spicy cheese spread made with sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and pimentos. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or condiment for sandwiches, it comes together quickly in just 15 minutes and serves eight people with a delightful texture and well-balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Base
- 2 cups freshly grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into 1” cubes and softened at room temperature
Mix-Ins
- 4 ounces pimento peppers, well drained and chopped if in strips
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Duke’s is traditional, but Sir Kensington’s also works well)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust or omit if sensitive to spice)
- ½ medium jalapeño pepper, ribs and seeds removed, minced (about 1 tablespoon; omit if sensitive to spice)
Seasonings
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add the grated sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese cubes, well-drained pimento peppers, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, minced jalapeño (if using), and a few twists of freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use a hand mixer, stand mixer, or mix by hand with a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula to beat the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the pimento cheese spread and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more black pepper if you prefer a peppery bite, a pinch of salt for depth, or extra cayenne pepper if you desire more heat. Blend again to incorporate any additional seasoning.
- Serve or Chill: Transfer the finished pimento cheese to a serving bowl. You can serve it immediately as a dip or spread, or refrigerate it for up to one week. If chilled, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to achieve a softer texture.
Notes
- Use extra-sharp cheddar for a robust flavor and creamy texture.
- Softening the cream cheese before mixing ensures a smoother spread.
- Adjust the heat level by omitting jalapeño and cayenne if preferred mild.
- Store refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness up to one week.
- Serve with crackers, fresh vegetables, or as a sandwich spread.
