Pimento Cheese
A creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy Southern classic. This homemade pimento cheese is made with sharp cheddar and real pimentos for an authentic taste. Perfect as a dip for crackers, a spread for sandwiches, or a topping for burgers. Ready in just 10 minutes of active prep time!
For 8 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Creamy Base
- b.Place the softened cream cheese in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Using an electric hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, beat the cream cheese for 1-2 minutes until it is completely smooth and free of lumps. This step is crucial for a creamy texture.
- c.Add the mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
- d.Mix on low speed or by hand until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined into a smooth, uniform base.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Incorporate Cheese and Pimentos
- b.Switch to a spatula if you were using a mixer. Add the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the well-drained, patted-dry pimentos to the bowl.
- c.Gently fold the cheese and pimentos into the creamy base until they are just evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to maintain the pleasant texture of the shredded cheese.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Chill to Meld Flavors
- b.Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne to your liking.
- c.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pimento cheese to an airtight container.
- d.Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably 2-4 hours, before serving. This allows the flavors to fully meld and deepen.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve
- b.Remove the pimento cheese from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving to let it soften slightly.
- c.Serve as a dip with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, and bell pepper strips. It's also excellent as a spread for sandwiches, a topping for burgers, or stuffed into celery stalks.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Shred your own cheese! Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly and can give the spread a gritty texture.
- 2For the creamiest result, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before you begin mixing.
- 3Pat the drained pimentos dry with a paper towel to prevent the spread from becoming watery.
- 4The flavor of pimento cheese improves significantly as it sits. For the best taste, prepare it a day in advance.
- 5If you prefer a sharper bite, add a tablespoon of the pimento brine or a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to the mixture.
- 6Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1-2 finely diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
SmokySmoky
Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika or use a smoked cheddar cheese for a deeper, smoky flavor profile.
With a CrunchWith a Crunch
Fold in 1/4 cup of toasted, chopped pecans for a delightful textural contrast.
Extra TangyExtra Tangy
For a more traditional, sharp flavor, add 1 tablespoon of finely grated yellow onion to the creamy base.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Calcium
Sharp cheddar and cream cheese provide a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Source of Protein
The cheese in this recipe offers high-quality protein, which is necessary for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Low in Carbohydrates
With minimal sugar and carbohydrates, pimento cheese is a flavorful option for individuals following low-carb or ketogenic diets.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this pimento cheese (approximately 1/4 cup or 66g) contains around 260-280 calories, primarily from fat and protein.