Pimento cheese is a Southern classic, beloved for its creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether served as a dip, spread on sandwiches, or scooped onto crackers, this recipe for Best Southern Pimento Cheese is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Made with sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and a hint of spice, it brings the perfect balance of flavors that will leave everyone craving more.

This recipe is simple, easy to make, and absolutely delicious!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

To make this Southern pimento cheese recipe, you will need the following equipment:

Mixing Bowls – One large and one small for combining the ingredients.
Grater – To shred the cheese for the perfect texture.
Spatula – For stirring and mixing everything together.
Measuring Spoons & Cups – For accurate measurements of ingredients.
Knife – To chop the pimentos and other ingredients.
Storage Containers – For storing the pimento cheese once it’s ready.

What Do You Need to Prepare the Best Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe?

Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you begin making this delicious pimento cheese:

Ingredients:

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup pimentos, drained and chopped
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat)
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Easy Southern Pimento Cheese Step-by-Step?

Follow these simple directions to make the Best Southern Pimento Cheese:

Step 1: Shred the Cheeses

Use a box grater or food processor to shred the sharp and mild cheddar cheeses. The fresh shredded cheese works best for a smoother texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Pimentos

Drain the pimentos and chop them into small pieces. You can use jarred pimentos for convenience, but fresh or roasted pimentos add a wonderful flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheeses, cream cheese, and mayonnaise. Use a spatula to mix everything until it’s smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add the Flavoring Ingredients

Add the dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.

Step 5: Add the Pimentos

Fold in the chopped pimentos, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Once everything is combined, cover the pimento cheese and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps the texture firm up slightly, making it even easier to spread.

Variations of Southern Pimento Cheese

There are many ways to customize this classic Southern recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some great variations you can try:

Spicy Pimento Cheese: Add more cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to bring a spicy kick to the mix.
Bacon Pimento Cheese: For a smoky, savory twist, stir in some crumbled crispy bacon. This adds a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese.
Vegan Pimento Cheese: Replace the dairy products with vegan alternatives like cashew cheese and plant-based mayo. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Pimento Cheese with Herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives to bring a burst of freshness and additional flavor.
Grilled Pimento Cheese Sandwich: Make it into a hot sandwich by spreading the pimento cheese on bread and grilling it until golden and melty.

Cooking Note

While making pimento cheese is quite simple, there are a few tips to ensure you get the best result every time. First, use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting and mixing as smoothly.

Additionally, the cream cheese is key for achieving the rich, smooth texture that pimento cheese is known for. It helps bind everything together while giving the spread a velvety finish. If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Let the pimento cheese chill in the fridge for at least an hour, if possible. This resting time allows the flavors to develop and makes the spread easier to handle. You can store leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. If you like a little more heat, add more cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños. If you prefer a milder flavor, dial down the mustard or garlic powder.

Serving Suggestions

Southern pimento cheese is incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are some of our favorite serving suggestions:

Sandwiches: Spread pimento cheese on your favorite bread, toasted or not, for a delicious Southern sandwich. Add some crispy bacon or sliced tomatoes for extra flavor.
Dip for Vegetables: Serve pimento cheese as a dip with fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, cucumber, or bell peppers.
With Crackers: Pimento cheese pairs perfectly with crispy crackers. For a more refined touch, serve it with water crackers or baguette slices.
On Burgers: Top your burgers with pimento cheese instead of traditional cheese for a Southern twist.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Spread pimento cheese on the inside of two slices of bread and grill it for a savory, cheesy treat.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese and quality mayo make a significant difference in the flavor of your pimento cheese. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese as it may contain preservatives that affect the texture.
Customize the spice level: If you love spice, add some chopped jalapeños or increase the cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Let it sit: Pimento cheese tastes even better after it has had time to rest. If you have time, refrigerate it for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Don’t overmix: When mixing the ingredients, be careful not to overwork the cheese. You want it to stay creamy and chunky for the perfect texture.
Make ahead: Pimento cheese can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a great option for parties and gatherings.
Try different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even gouda to create your unique pimento cheese blend.

Tips for the Best Southern Pimento Cheese

Use a blend of cheeses: The combination of sharp cheddar and mild cheddar gives the pimento cheese its signature taste. However, feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your perfect balance of flavors.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your pimento cheese as you go. Add more garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne to suit your personal preferences.
Choose quality mayonnaise: The mayo plays a big role in the texture and flavor of the spread. Opt for a high-quality mayo for the best results.
Chill it: While it’s tempting to dive right in, letting the pimento cheese chill for at least an hour helps to bring out the flavors and makes it easier to spread.
Serve with variety: Pimento cheese can be served in so many ways, so get creative with how you serve it – from sandwiches to dips to spreads.

Prep Time/ Cooking Time/ Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Total Time: 15 minutes + 1 hour chill time

Nutritional Information

Calories: 250 per serving
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 22g (with 12g of saturated fat)

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FAQs

Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time? Yes! In fact, it often tastes better after sitting for a few hours or even overnight. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use other cheeses in pimento cheese? Absolutely! You can substitute the cheddar with other cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicier version.

How long can pimento cheese be stored? Pimento cheese can last up to 5-7 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This Best Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is easy to make, delicious, and versatile. Whether you’re hosting a party, making sandwiches, or just need a tasty snack, pimento cheese is the perfect choice. With a blend of sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimentos, this spread offers the creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that makes it a beloved Southern classic.

So, gather your ingredients and start making this delicious pimento cheese today!