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This creamy Southern pimento cheese spread is easy and comforting. It’s great for sandwiches, crackers, or fresh veggies. The mix of sharp cheddar, sweet pimentos, and a bit of spice gives it a classic Southern taste that’s simple to whip up at home.
I first made this for a family get-together and it quickly became a crowd-pleaser. The mix of bold cheese and mild spice really hits the spot.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: adds smoothness and helps everything stick together pick a tasty one for best results
- Pepper blend: brings gentle heat and layers of spice freshly ground is best
- Sharp cheddar cheese: shredded finely for creamy texture and strong cheesy flavor use block cheddar for freshness
- Cream cheese: softened to room temp for easy mixing and rich creaminess
- Paprika: gives a warm, earthy flavor and a bit of smoky sweetness choose sweet or smoked based on your taste
- Old Bay seasoning: optional but adds a unique herbal zing classic to the Southern coast
- Cayenne pepper: adds a spicy punch adjust to your heat level
- Garlic powder and onion powder: bring savory notes and depth fresh powders work best
- Pimentos: drained well for sweet tang and bright color choose vibrant jarred pimentos
How To Make It
- Mix the Base:
- Finely shred eight ounces of sharp cheddar cheese to get a smooth, even mix and a cheesy bite in every spoonful
- Get Pimentos and Cream Cheese Ready:
- Drain pimentos well so your spread isn’t watery and let cream cheese soften so no lumps form when mixed
- Put It All Together:
- In a bowl add the shredded cheddar, cream cheese, pimentos, and half a cup of mayo for a creamy base
- Add the Spices:
- Stir in one teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and pepper blend with a quarter teaspoon cayenne and Old Bay seasoning if you want that special Southern touch
- Stir Until Smooth:
- Mix everything well until coated and creamy or pulse in a food processor if you want it extra smooth
- Chill Before Serving:
- Put your spread in a sealed container and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors settle and firm up for easier spreading
I always spot those bright red pimentos peeking through the cheesy mix. They remind me of lazy Sunday afternoons at my grandparents’ house where this spread was always on hand for quick sandwiches or snacking with crackers. The paprika and cayenne add a cozy warmth that makes it inviting.
Storing Tips
Keep your pimento cheese in a sealed container in the fridge to keep it fresh and creamy. The flavors actually get better after a couple of days. If it dries out a little, just stir in more mayo or cream cheese to make it spreadable again.
Swap Suggestions
Try smoked gouda instead of cheddar for a smoky twist. Swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt if you want a tangier, lighter spread. For more heat, replace cayenne with chipotle powder or mix in chopped jalapenos.
Serving Ideas
Pimento cheese works great inside sandwiches with crunchy lettuce and juicy tomato for a classic lunch. Use it as a dip for fresh sticks of celery, carrots, or bell peppers. Spoon it on hot dogs and burgers for that Southern-style flavor boost.
This Southern classic spread is something you can enjoy anytime. Its creamy tang and gentle spice have made it a favorite in my kitchen for quick snacks and sharing with friends.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Which cheeses go into this spread?
You'll need sharp cheddar and cream cheese to get a smooth, tangy mix full of flavor.
- → How do I change how spicy it is?
Use cayenne pepper to control the heat. More cayenne makes it spicier, less or none keeps it mild.
- → Can I make it creamier?
Definitely, running it through a food processor will make everything blend smoothly and give it a softer feel.
- → What are some serving tips?
Keep it chilled and serve with celery, crackers, or stuff it into sandwiches for extra flavor.
- → How long does it last in the fridge?
Keep it sealed tight and it’ll stay fresh up to seven days inside the fridge.