Pimento Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Pimento cheese is a classic Southern spread that’s creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect as an appetizer with crackers or as a tasty sandwich filling. This easy recipe comes together quickly and suits all kinds of gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 8 oz block sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
- ⅓ cup diced pimento peppers (drained)
- 3 tablespoons mayo
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Step 1: Soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for at least 45 minutes to ensure it blends smoothly.
- Step 2: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth.
- Step 3: Add the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, diced pimento peppers, mayonnaise, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder. Beat everything together until well combined.
- Step 4: Cover the mixture and chill it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Step 5: Serve the pimento cheese spread with crackers for a classic appetizer or use it as a filling on white sandwich bread.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
- Try mixing in chopped green onions or fresh herbs for added freshness.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, fold in the cheese and pimentos by hand instead of fully mixing.
Storage
Store leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving again, give it a good stir. It’s best enjoyed cold but can be brought to room temperature for about 15 minutes for creamier texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time?
Yes, pimento cheese actually tastes better when made a few hours or a day ahead, as it allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
What should I serve with pimento cheese?
Pimento cheese is delicious served with crackers, fresh veggies, or as a sandwich spread on white or wheat bread. It also pairs well with crispy bacon or pickles for extra flavor.
PrintPimento Cheese Recipe
This classic Southern Pimento Cheese recipe combines creamy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and tangy diced pimentos into a delicious spread that’s perfect for appetizers or sandwiches. It’s easy to prepare, requiring no cooking, and results in a flavorful, creamy cheesy treat that pairs wonderfully with crackers or bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (excluding cream cheese softening)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (includes softening time)
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups of pimento cheese spread, serving about 6–8 people 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz block sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- ⅓ cup diced pimento peppers, drained
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Soften Cream Cheese: Leave the cream cheese out at room temperature for at least 45 minutes to achieve a soft and creamy texture, which makes mixing easier.
- Beat Cream Cheese: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, diced pimento peppers, mayonnaise, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder to the cream cheese. Beat again until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Chill: Cover the pimento cheese mixture and refrigerate until ready to serve. Chilling helps meld the flavors together and firms up the spread.
- Store Leftovers: Transfer any leftover pimento cheese into an airtight container and keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness for several days.
- Serve: Serve the pimento cheese as a delicious appetizer with crackers or spread it on white sandwich bread for a classic Southern treat.
Notes
- For best texture, freshly grate the cheddar cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese to avoid clumping.
- Adjust the seasoning according to taste; a pinch more salt or garlic powder can enhance flavor.
- Pimentos can be found jarred in most grocery stores, typically in the canned pepper or olive aisle.
- For a tangier version, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of hot sauce.
- Storage: This spread keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Keywords: pimento cheese, Southern recipe, cheese spread, appetizer, creamy cheese dip, easy no-cook recipe
