Homemade Pimento Cheese
Savor the flavors of pimento cheese, a quintessential Southern treat. Discover the best cheese and techniques to create a creamy, tangy, and irresistible spread.
Pimento cheese has a special place in Southern cuisine, which I discovered when I lived in Mississippi. It probably originated in the early 1900s and became so popular that by the 1920s, ready-made products were available in grocery stores. You’ll likely find pimento cheese sandwiches at Southern gatherings, picnics, and parties. It’s a traditional food served at the Masters Tournament in Georgia.
This is my favorite recipe for pimento cheese. It combines sharp cheddar cheese with the richness of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and store-bought pimentos. I love adding it to an appetizer cheese platter as a spreadable option.
Tips
- Cheese: Sharp or extra sharp cheddar is excellent, and you’ll get the best flavor and texture if buy a block of cheese and shred it by hand. Pre-shredded cheese tends to be a bit dry due to the addition of anti-caking agents.
- Pimentos: Jarred pimentos are preferred. Make sure they are well-drained before adding them to the cheese mixture.
- Mayonnaise: Duke’s is a Southern favorite, but feel free to use your favorite or the mayonnaise you have on hand.
- Mixing: For a chunkier texture, use a fork to mash and create the spread.
- Chill: Chill the pimento cheese for at least an hour before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Meaty: Add crumbled bacon or finely chopped ham for added flavor. Or mix in some store-bought deviled ham spread.
- Spicy: Add minced jalapeño or Fresno peppers to the cheese for a kick of heat and a little extra crunch.
- Pickles: Finely chopped dill pickles can add a burst of flavor.
How to Serve
While simple pimiento cheese sandwiches on white bread are a Southern staple, there are so many other ways to serve this delicious spread. Here are a few ideas:
- Charcuterie Board: Add a scoop of pimento cheese to a large platter or cutting board along with other cheeses and ingredients, such as crackers, pickles, meats, grapes, and peppers.
- Celery: Fill celery sticks with the spread for a quick and easy snack.
- Grilled Cheese: Replace your usual grilled cheese filling with pimento cheese for an extra-flavorful sandwich.
- Burgers: Top burgers with the spread for a unique twist on a cheeseburger.
- Mini Peppers: Stuff mini bell peppers or jalapeños with pimento cheese for a yummy snack or party appetizer.
- Hot Dogs: Spread it on the buns to make your cheese dogs extra special!
How to Store
Refrigerate: Transfer the pimento cheese to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. Enjoy within 5 to 7 days for the best flavor and texture.
Freeze: Not recommended because the mayonnaise and cream cheese base may separate and become grainy after thawing.
Before Serving: Let the pimento cheese sit at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes to soften and become more spreadable.
Homemade Pimento Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 8- ounce package cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise, or more if you like it creamier
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Mix: Combine the cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix by mashing with a fork or spoon, or beat with an electric mixer. Taste and adjust the seasonings, adding salt to taste.
- Serve: Serve as a spread or dip and enjoy!
