If you have a special place in your heart for Southern comfort food, then this Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe is sure to become one of your new favorites. It’s a creamy, cheesy delight that balances sharp cheddar with tangy pimentos and a hint of spice, creating a spread so luscious and versatile you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Whether you’re gearing up for a casual gathering or craving a rich, flavorful snack, this recipe brings a classic Southern charm right to your table with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe is half the joy because each component plays an essential role in creating that unforgettable combination of flavor, texture, and color. These simple staples come together effortlessly to make something truly special.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show, providing bold flavor and a satisfying cheesy texture.
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened): Adds luxuriously smooth creaminess that binds everything together beautifully.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Enhances richness and moisture, keeping the spread perfectly fluffy and spreadable.
- 1/4 cup diced pimentos (drained): Brings that signature sweet and tangy pop of red color that makes pimento cheese so iconic.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A gentle hint of savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic powder and cheese with a subtle yet aromatic boost.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a touch of heat that wakes up the palate and keeps things interesting.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that tie all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Cheeses and Mayonnaise
Start by mixing together the shredded sharp cheddar, softened cream cheese, and mayonnaise in a medium bowl. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to blend until you achieve a creamy, well-incorporated mixture. This combination is the luscious base that gives your spread that irresistible texture and flavor profile.
Step 2: Add the Flavorings
Once your cheeses and mayo are perfectly blended, fold in the diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. These ingredients bring brightness and a subtle kick, transforming the mixture into that classic Southern favorite everyone loves.
Step 3: Season and Chill
Season your spread with salt and black pepper to your liking. Then, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chill time is crucial because it allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together and develop a harmonious depth that makes each bite mouthwateringly good.
How to Serve Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the visual appeal and flavor of your pimento cheese spread by topping it with a few extra diced pimentos or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. A little fresh chive or parsley finely chopped over the top adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
This spread pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides—from crunchy celery sticks and crisp crackers to soft brioche buns or hearty rye bread for sandwiches. It’s also fantastic alongside pickled vegetables or a crisp, refreshing salad to balance out its rich creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve this Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe in a hollowed-out bell pepper or atop a platter of grilled pita triangles. You can also use it as a decadent sandwich filling or dollop it on top of baked potatoes for a fun twist. The possibilities are as delicious as they are endless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra pimento cheese (which is more common than you might think because it’s so addictive), simply transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep deliciously fresh for up to 5 days, making it easy to enjoy later.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t typically recommended for this Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe due to potential changes in texture, you can freeze it if necessary. Use a freezer-safe container and thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight before stirring well to restore creaminess.
Reheating
This spread is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually needed. However, if you prefer to warm it slightly for a sandwich or dip, gently heat it on low in a microwave or stovetop and stir frequently to prevent separation.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can mix in white cheddar, smoked gouda, or even a bit of Monterey Jack to customize the flavor and texture to your liking.
Is this Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick if you include the cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust or omit the spice to suit your taste buds. Adding hot sauce is another great way to control the heat level.
How long does this spread last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the spread stays fresh for about 5 days. Be sure to keep it chilled and give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Traditional pimento cheese relies heavily on cheese and cream cheese, but you can experiment with vegan cheese alternatives and plant-based mayo for a dairy-free version, though the flavor and texture will shift somewhat.
What are some other uses for pimento cheese aside from a spread?
This versatile spread can be used as a filling for stuffed peppers, mixed into deviled eggs, dolloped onto burgers, or even as a topping for grilled meats. It’s an all-around flavor booster!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to add a bit of Southern flair and cheesy goodness to your culinary repertoire, giving this Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe a try is a no-brainer. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable—why not whip up a batch today and taste all the comforting, tangy, and creamy magic for yourself?
Print
Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Southern American pimento cheese spread made with sharp cheddar, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. This creamy, flavorful appetizer is perfect for serving chilled with crackers, vegetables, or as a tasty sandwich spread.
Ingredients
Cheese Base
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Add-ins & Seasonings
- 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Mix Cheese Base: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and mayonnaise. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add Seasonings and Pimentos: Stir in the diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you want a touch of heat. Mix until evenly incorporated.
- Season and Chill: Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to your taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the spread for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Serve chilled as a dip with crackers and fresh vegetables or use it as a flavorful sandwich spread.
Notes
- Swap part of the sharp cheddar for white cheddar or smoked gouda for a unique flavor.
- For an ultra-smooth texture, blend all ingredients in a food processor.
- Add a dash of hot sauce to spice it up.
