Homemade Pimento Cheese

This post may contain affiliate links. See our Privacy Policy.

Pimento cheese holds a special place in Southern cooking, known for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. I first discovered its appeal while living in Mississippi, where it’s found everywhere from family gatherings to church picnics. By the 1920s, this cheese spread was so beloved that grocery stores were selling it ready-made.

What makes this version especially appealing is how quickly it comes together. A handful of staple ingredients—sharp cheddar, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and seasonings—blend into a smooth, spreadable mixture that tastes far fresher than store-bought versions. It’s equally suited for casual gatherings, holiday tables, or everyday snacking, and it holds up well in the fridge, making it an ideal make-ahead option.

What You’ll Like About This Recipe

• Rich, creamy texture. Cream cheese and mayonnaise work together to create a thick, luxurious spread that clings beautifully to crackers or bread.
• Big cheddar flavor. Sharp cheddar cheese adds depth and tang, and shredding it yourself creates better texture and meltability compared to pre-shredded blends.
• Quick to prepare. The entire recipe mixes together in about ten minutes, requiring only a bowl and fork—or a mixer for an even smoother finish.
• Highly customizable. You can adjust creaminess, spice level, sweetness, or chunkiness to match your taste or your guests’ preferences.
• Perfect for entertaining. Pimento cheese pairs effortlessly with crudités, breads, chips, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards, making it a reliable party favorite.

Ingredient Notes

• Sharp cheddar cheese – Freshly shredded cheddar offers the best texture and flavor. Extra sharp cheddar makes the spread punchier, while medium cheddar creates a milder, creamier version.
• Cream cheese – Softened cream cheese forms the smooth base. Full-fat varieties offer the best structure, but reduced-fat cream cheese works if you prefer a lighter spread.
• Mayonnaise – Adds body and richness. Brands like Duke’s or Hellmann’s work particularly well, and you can adjust the amount depending on how creamy you want the final texture.
• Seasonings – Onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt round out the flavor. A small pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can be added for heat or smokiness.
• Pimentos – Though not shown in your base list, classic pimento cheese typically includes chopped pimentos from a jar. Add 2 to 4 tablespoons as desired for iconic color and sweetness.

Steps to Make Homemade Pimento Cheese

1. Combine the shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and seasonings in a mixing bowl, ensuring the ingredients start at room temperature for easier blending.
2. Mash with a fork or mix with a spoon until the ingredients begin to come together, then switch to an electric mixer if you prefer a smoother, whipped texture.
3. Adjust creaminess by adding extra mayonnaise a little at a time, depending on whether you like a thick spread or a softer dip consistency.
4. Stir in chopped pimentos at the end, distributing them evenly without breaking down the cheese mixture.
5. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings, adding salt, pepper, or heat as needed.

Pro Tips

• Shred your cheddar by hand for superior melt and texture; pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that make the mixture less creamy.
• Soften the cream cheese fully before mixing to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth blend.
• Chill briefly before serving if you prefer a firmer consistency, particularly for sandwiches or stuffed celery.
• Add more mayo gradually—it’s easy to make the spread creamier, but difficult to thicken if you add too much at once.
• Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and spreadability.

Recipe Variations

• Classic Southern pimento cheese. Add chopped pimentos, a pinch of cayenne, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a more traditional profile.
• Smoky version. Incorporate smoked paprika or use smoked cheddar for a deeper, savory flavor.
• Jalapeño pimento cheese. Stir in finely diced fresh jalapeño or pickled jalapeño slices for heat and tang.
• Bacon-cheddar spread. Add crisp crumbled bacon for extra richness and texture.
• Whipped pimento cheese. Use a hand mixer to whip the mixture until light, airy, and extra spreadable.

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 pimento cheese in an airtight container for several days, stirring before serving to refresh the texture.
• Freeze is not recommended due to separation of dairy components when thawed.
• Refresh by stirring in a small amount of mayonnaise if the mixture firms up too much after chilling.