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Pimento Cheese

Featured in Easy Party Snacks.

Finally nailed homemade pimento cheese! Takes about 20 minutes total. The sharp cheddar gives perfect bite while cream cheese makes it super creamy. Used fresh pimentos and they make huge difference. Made it for Derby party and everyone kept snacking. Perfect Southern spread that's way better than store bought.
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Mina cooking in her kitchen
Updated on Thu, 09 Jan 2025 17:28:05 GMT
A close-up view of a creamy, cheesy dip mixed with red peppers and garnished with green herbs, served in a glass bowl. Pin it
A close-up view of a creamy, cheesy dip mixed with red peppers and garnished with green herbs, served in a glass bowl. | lastminrecipes.com

The Best Southern Pimento Cheese

This homemade pimento cheese brings pure Southern comfort in every bite. The combination of sharp cheddar sweet pimentos and creamy spiced filling creates something truly special. I love how versatile it is perfect on crackers sandwiches or just about anything that needs a touch of cheesy goodness.

Why This Pimento Cheese Works

The beauty of this recipe is how quick and simple it is to make while tasting like it's been passed down for generations. You can easily adjust the spice level to your taste and it's always a hit whether you're serving it at a party or keeping it in the fridge for afternoon snacking.

What You'll Need

  • Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Grate it fresh it makes all the difference.
  • Cream Cheese: Creates that perfect creamy base.
  • Pimento Peppers: The star of our show.
  • Mayonnaise: Makes everything silky smooth.
  • Spices: Our perfect blend adds just the right kick.

Let's Make Some Magic

Get Ready
Grate your cheese and let that cream cheese soften.
Mix It Up
Blend everything together until it's perfectly smooth.
Make It Perfect
Add those seasonings until it tastes just right.
Time to Enjoy
Serve it up or let it chill for later.

Make It Your Own

Want it mild? Skip the spicy stuff. Love heat? Add extra jalapeño and cayenne. Spread it on sandwiches top your burgers or dip your favorite crackers. Can't find pimentos? Roasted red peppers work beautifully too.

Perfect Partners

This pimento cheese loves crunchy celery sticks buttery crackers and warm crusty bread. Want something extra special? Try it in a grilled cheese sandwich or serve it alongside some crispy fried green tomatoes for a true taste of the South.

A glass bowl filled with creamy cheese spread mixed with red peppers. Pin it
A glass bowl filled with creamy cheese spread mixed with red peppers. | lastminrecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why use freshly grated cheese?

Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that affect texture and melting.

→ Why let cream cheese soften?

Room temperature cream cheese blends more smoothly without overworking the mixture.

→ Can I substitute pimento peppers?

Roasted red peppers make a good substitute with minimal flavor difference.

→ Why does it harden when chilled?

The cheese and cream cheese naturally firm up; let stand 30 minutes to soften.

→ How long does it keep?

Stays fresh up to 1 week when refrigerated.

Pimento Cheese

A creamy Southern spread combining sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and pimentos with a hint of heat from cayenne and jalapeño.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
10 Minutes
By: Mina


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Southern American

Yield: 8 Servings (2 cups)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 2 cups extra-sharp cheddar, freshly grated.
02 8 ounces cream cheese, softened.
03 4 ounces pimento peppers, drained.
04 2 tablespoons mayonnaise.
05 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder.
06 1/4 teaspoon onion powder.
07 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
08 1/2 jalapeño, minced (optional).
09 Black pepper to taste.
10 Salt to taste.

Instructions

Step 01

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.

Step 02

Beat until thoroughly mixed.

Step 03

Taste and adjust seasonings.

Step 04

Add extra cayenne if desired.

Step 05

Transfer to a serving bowl.

Notes

  1. Let cream cheese soften first.
  2. Can microwave cream cheese briefly.
  3. Keeps 1 week refrigerated.
  4. Let soften 30 minutes before serving.
  5. Can use roasted red peppers instead.

Tools You'll Need

  • Stand mixer or hand mixer.
  • Large mixing bowl.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cheese, cream cheese).
  • Eggs (mayonnaise).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 19 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 2 g
  • Protein: 10 g