Pimento Cheese Recipe

Pimento Cheese is a beloved Southern staple known for its creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor. It’s perfect as a spread on crackers, a dip for veggies, or as a sandwich filling. Made with sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, this easy recipe comes together in just 10 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a simple snack, this Pimento Cheese Recipe is a quick and delicious choice.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 ½ cups (180 g) extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup (60 g) mayonnaise
• ½ cup (4 ounces) jarred pimento, finely diced (approximately 4 ounces drained weight)
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix with a spatula or hand mixer on low speed until smooth and well combined.
2. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and finely diced pimentos until evenly distributed.
3. Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
5. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
6. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend.
7. Serve chilled as a dip with veggies, a spread on crackers, or as a sandwich filling.

Serving & Storage Tips

• Serve pimento cheese as a dip with celery, carrots, bell peppers, or crackers.
• Spread it on sandwiches, sliders, or toast for a quick snack or meal.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Variations

• Spicy Pimento Cheese: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Bacon Pimento Cheese: Mix in 2–3 strips of cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Herbed Pimento Cheese: Add fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill to enhance the flavor profile.
• Smoked Cheddar Version: Swap regular cheddar for smoked cheddar for a richer taste.
• Greek Yogurt Version: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.

FAQs

1. Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time? Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours to let flavors meld.
2. What’s the best cheese for pimento cheese? Extra sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but mild cheddar can also work.
3. Can I use fresh pimentos instead of jarred? Yes, roast and dice fresh pimentos before adding.
4. Is pimento cheese gluten-free? Yes, the cheese mixture itself is gluten-free; just serve with gluten-free crackers if needed.
5. How long does pimento cheese last in the fridge? Up to 5 days in an airtight container.
6. Can I freeze pimento cheese? Yes, for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
7. How can I make it spicy? Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños.
8. Can I make it vegan or dairy-free? Use dairy-free cream cheese, cheddar-style shreds, and vegan mayonnaise.
9. What can I serve with pimento cheese? Crackers, celery sticks, bell peppers, toast, sandwiches, or sliders.
10. Can I use shredded cheese from a block? Yes, fresh shredded cheese melts and blends better than pre-shredded packaged cheese.

This homemade Pimento Cheese Recipe is a quick, easy, and versatile dish that brings Southern comfort straight to your table. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a creamy, flavorful spread perfect for any occasion. Whether served at parties, packed in lunchboxes, or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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