Pimento Cheese Recipe

Pimento cheese is a creamy, cheesy spread made with sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It’s a popular dish in the southern United States, often used as a dip, sandwich filling, or cracker topping.

This simple yet flavorful spread has a rich, tangy taste thanks to the combination of the cheese and the slightly spicy pimentos. It’s easy to make at home and can be enjoyed in many ways, making it a go-to snack for gatherings or a comforting addition to a meal.

Why You’ll Love Pimento Cheese

Pimento cheese is a tasty, creamy spread many adore for its flavor and versatility. Here are some key reasons why you’ll love it:

Perfect Blend of Flavors

Pimento cheese combines sharp cheddar cheese with sweet pimentos and spice. This mix creates a rich, balanced, savory, and mildly tangy taste.

Quick and Easy to Make

Pimento cheese is simple to prepare. You only need a few ingredients—cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, and some seasonings—and you can whip it up quickly.

Versatile Snack Option

Pimento cheese can be used in many ways. Spread it on crackers, use it as a dip, or put it on sandwiches or burgers. It’s a quick snack or a great addition to any meal.

Ingredients for Pimento Cheese

Making pimento cheese is fun and straightforward. Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to create this creamy, flavorful spread:

• Cheddar Cheese is the star ingredient! Use sharp cheddar for a tangy, bold flavor. Shred it yourself for the best texture and taste.
• Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess and helps bind everything together. You can use regular or light mayo, depending on your preference.
• Pimentos: These small, mild peppers add a slight sweetness and beautiful color to the cheese mix. Drain them well before using them.
• Dijon Mustard: A little bit of Dijon mustard gives the pimento cheese a slight tang and a rich, savory flavor.
• Garlic Powder: A pinch of garlic powder enhances the taste and adds depth to the spread.
• Cayenne Pepper: For a gentle kick! It’s optional, but add it to taste if you like a little heat.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper to balance all the flavors.

How to Make Pimento Cheese

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make your perfect batch of pimento cheese:

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated for the best texture and flavor)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (you can use light mayo if you prefer a lighter version)
• 1/4 cup pimentos, diced and drained (jarred or fresh)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (adds a little tang)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a hint of heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

Making pimento cheese is easy, and you’ll be done soon!

1. Shred the Cheese: If your cheddar cheese is not already pre-shredded, start by shredding it. Freshly grated cheese will give your spread a better texture.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir: Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything until the ingredients are well combined. Make sure the cheese is evenly coated with the mayo and seasonings.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste your pimento cheese and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicier.
5. Chill and Serve: Once you’re happy with the taste, cover the bowl and chill the pimento cheese in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.

Pimento Cheese Variations

While traditional pimento cheese is delicious, many ways exist to change it and create new flavors. You can add ingredients like jalapeños for some heat or garlic for extra flavor. Some people even mix cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or cream cheese, to give it a creamier texture. You can also add herbs like parsley or dill for a fresh twist.

Here are some popular variations:

• Spicy Pimento Cheese: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Bacon Pimento Cheese: Mix in crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
• Garlic Pimento Cheese: Add fresh minced garlic for a savory twist.
• Smoky Pimento Cheese: Use smoked cheddar or paprika to give the spread a smoky taste.

How to Serve Pimento Cheese

Pimento cheese is very versatile and can be served in many ways. It’s perfect as a dip, a spread, or a sandwich filling. Here are some easy serving suggestions:

As a Dip: Serve pimento cheese with crackers, veggies, or chips.

On Sandwiches: Spread it on bread for a delicious sandwich or a grilled cheese.

As a Topping: Use pimento cheese for burgers, hot dogs, or baked potatoes.

On Crackers: It’s a great snack when spread on crackers.

Storage Tips

To keep your pimento cheese fresh, store it properly. Here are some helpful storage tips:

Refrigeration: Always store pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing: While freezing is possible, it may change the texture. If you plan to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.

Separation: If the oil or mayonnaise separates over time, stir the cheese spread to bring it back together.

FAQs About Pimento Cheese