Pin it
Let me share my absolute favorite Southern comfort food - Pimento Cheese! This recipe comes straight from my grandmother's kitchen with a few little tweaks I've picked up over the years. There's nothing quite like homemade pimento cheese y'all it's creamy tangy and just perfect spread on everything from crackers to sandwiches. We call it Southern pâté in my family and honestly it disappears faster than sweet tea on a hot summer day!
Why This Recipe Is Special
What makes this pimento cheese so magical is how it brings people together. Every time I make it memories of family gatherings come flooding back. It's one of those recipes that's simple but absolutely packed with flavor. Whether you're spreading it on a sandwich or serving it as a dip it just makes everything better!
Let's Gather Our Ingredients
- Extra-sharp cheddar you've got to grate it yourself.
- Good cream cheese nice and soft.
- Those sweet little pimento peppers.
- Real mayonnaise Duke's if you can find it!
- Just a touch of garlic powder.
- A hint of onion powder.
- Cayenne for those who like it spicy.
- Fresh jalapeño if you're feeling brave!
Let's Make It Together
- Start With The Cheese
- Get those arm muscles ready we're grating our own cheddar!
- Prep Those Pimentos
- Chop them nice and fine they're the star of the show.
- Mix It Up
- Throw everything in a bowl it's about to get good!
- Make It Smooth
- Mix until it's just right but don't overdo it.
- Let It Rest
- The hardest part waiting for the flavors to get friendly.
Pin it
Ways To Serve It
Oh the possibilities! Spread it thick on white bread for a classic sandwich make the most amazing grilled cheese you've ever had or set it out with crackers at your next party. I even sneak it onto burgers sometimes pure heaven!
My Best Tips
Here's what I've learned from years of making this: always always grate your own cheese that pre-shredded stuff just won't do! Let your cream cheese get nice and soft and don't skimp on the mayo quality. Give it time to chill the flavors get even better!
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I throw in some crispy bacon bits or green onions for extra flavor. If you can't find pimentos roasted red peppers work beautifully. And if you're watching calories try Greek yogurt instead of mayo it's surprisingly good!
A Taste of Home
This recipe is more than just a spread it's a piece of Southern heritage right in your kitchen. Every time I make it I think of warm summer evenings and family gatherings. It's amazing how something so simple can hold so many memories!
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why use freshly grated cheese?
Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture. Fresh grated cheese melts better and provides better flavor.
- → Can I make this less spicy?
Yes, omit the jalapeño and cayenne pepper for a mild version that maintains the classic flavor.
- → Why does it need to soften?
The spread firms up when chilled. Letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes makes it more spreadable.
- → What can I substitute for pimentos?
Roasted red peppers make an excellent substitute, using a scant 1/2 cup chopped.
- → How long does it keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it keeps well for up to one week.
Conclusion
This classic Southern spread combines sharp cheddar and cream cheese with pimento peppers and spices for a creamy, flavorful dip ready in just 10 minutes.