Introduction
Pimento Cheese is a classic Southern staple, perfect as a dip, spread, or sandwich filling for appetizers, snacks, or gatherings. This creamy, tangy blend of cheddar cheese, pimentos, and mayonnaise delivers a bold, savory flavor with a touch of sweetness. Presented in a white ceramic bowl, garnished with chopped chives or a sprinkle of paprika, this Pimento Cheese offers a vibrant, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any occasion. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing spread that brings Southern charm to any table.
Ingredients
For the Pimento Cheese:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, drained
- 1 tbsp finely chopped onion (optional, for depth)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Serving:
- Optional: Chopped chives, paprika
- Suggested Accompaniments: Crackers, celery sticks, toasted bread, burger topping
- Suggested Pairings: Sweet tea, light beer
- Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl
- Suggested Equipment: Mixing bowl, box grater, spatula, measuring cups/spoons, small knife, cutting board
Step-by-Step Process
- Grate Cheese: Grate sharp cheddar cheese using a box grater for the best texture; avoid pre-shredded cheese, which may contain additives that affect creaminess.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine grated cheddar, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, drained pimentos, onion (if using), garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir with a spatula until smooth and well-combined.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the mixture and adjust with additional salt, cayenne, or a splash of lemon juice (1 tsp) for tang to ensure a balanced flavor.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
- Serve: Transfer to a white ceramic bowl. Garnish with chopped chives or a sprinkle of paprika. Serve as a dip with crackers or celery, a spread on toasted bread, or a topping for burgers, paired with sweet tea or light beer.
Tips for Better Pimento Cheese
- Grate cheese fresh for a creamier texture; pre-shredded cheese may yield a grainy result.
- Taste the mixture before chilling to balance tangy, spicy, and savory flavors; adjust cautiously to maintain consistency.
- Soften cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing; microwave for 10–15 seconds if needed.
- Drain pimentos well to avoid excess moisture in the spread.
- Present in a white ceramic bowl to highlight the vibrant orange color and garnishes.
- Make ahead: Prepare up to 5 days in advance; store in the fridge and stir before serving.
- For a smoother texture, blend half the mixture in a food processor, then stir back in.
- Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with chives or paprika in a white ceramic bowl for a bold, inviting look.
Variations and Customization
- Gluten-Free Pimento Cheese: Naturally gluten-free; ensure mayonnaise and accompaniments are gluten-free.
- Vegan Pimento Cheese: Use vegan cheddar cheese, vegan cream cheese, and vegan mayonnaise; replace pimentos with roasted red peppers if needed.
- Low-Fat Pimento Cheese: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise; reduce to 1/4 cup mayonnaise and add 2 tbsp Greek yogurt.
- Spicy Pimento Cheese: Increase cayenne to 1/2 tsp or add 1 tbsp diced jalapeño.
- Smoky Pimento Cheese: Add 1/4 tsp smoked paprika or 1 tsp liquid smoke.
- Herb-Forward Pimento Cheese: Stir in 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley.
- Bacon Pimento Cheese: Mix in 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon for extra savoriness.
- Nutty Pimento Cheese: Add 2 tbsp chopped toasted pecans for crunch.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; stir before serving to refresh texture.
- Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container; thaw in the fridge overnight and stir well (texture may slightly change).
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and spreadability.
- Use as a dip for appetizers, a spread for sandwiches, or a topping for burgers or crackers.
- Pair with sweet tea or light beer to complement the creamy, tangy flavor.
- Present in a white ceramic bowl with garnishes for an appetizing, Southern charm.
Nutritional Information
Based on 8 servings (1/4 cup each):
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 3g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 10% Daily Value
- Calcium: 20% Daily Value
- Iron: 2% Daily Value
Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-fat options reduce fat to ~12g). High in fat; enjoy with veggies or whole-grain crackers for balance.
Conclusion
This Pimento Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, tangy spread, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a Southern classic. Its quick preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The rich cheese and pimento flavors delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing appeal.
Pimento Cheese Recipe: Creamy Southern Classic
Classic Southern Pimento Cheese with creamy, tangy flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese grated
- ½ cup cream cheese softened
- â…“ cup mayonnaise
- 1 jar 4 oz diced pimentos, drained
- 1 tbsp finely chopped onion optional
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: Chopped chives paprika
- Suggested Pairings: Sweet tea crackers
Instructions
- Grate cheddar cheese.
- Mix cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, onion, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust with salt or lemon juice.
- Chill for 1 hour.
- Serve in a white ceramic bowl with chives, paprika, and tea.
Notes
- Grate cheese fresh for the best texture.
- Store in fridge for 5 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Try a spicy or vegan variation.
- Pair with celery.
