Best Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe: Creamy, Dreamy, and Irresistible!

Pimento cheese. The caviar of the South. Southern pâté. Whatever you call it, this creamy, cheesy spread is a staple in southern kitchens and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Forget the store-bought stuff – once you taste homemade pimento cheese, you’ll never go back. This recipe isn’t just good; it’s *the best*. It’s the perfect balance of sharp cheddar, creamy mayonnaise, tangy pimentos, and a hint of spice that will have everyone begging for more. Get ready to elevate your sandwiches, crackers, and veggie platters with this irresistible Southern classic!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe isn’t just a random collection of ingredients thrown together. It’s carefully crafted to achieve the perfect texture and flavor profile. Here’s why it works:

• Sharp Cheddar is Key: Using good quality, sharp cheddar cheese is crucial. It provides the robust, cheesy flavor that defines pimento cheese. We recommend using a blend of medium and sharp for the best balance.
• Creamy Base: Mayonnaise is the binder, but not all mayonnaise is created equal. Full-fat mayonnaise provides the necessary richness and creaminess. We prefer Duke’s, a Southern favorite, but any good quality full-fat mayonnaise will work.
• Pimento Power: Diced pimentos add a sweet and slightly tangy flavor that complements the cheddar perfectly. Don’t skimp on the pimentos!
• A Touch of Heat: A pinch of cayenne pepper (or a dash of hot sauce) adds a subtle kick that balances the richness of the cheese and mayonnaise. It’s not overpowering, but it’s definitely noticeable and adds a depth of flavor.
• The Right Texture: Grating the cheese yourself ensures the perfect texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting and blending smoothly.
• Resting Period: Allowing the pimento cheese to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour (or even better, overnight) allows the flavors to meld together and creates a more cohesive and flavorful spread.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 2 cups)
• 4 ounces medium cheddar cheese, grated (about 1 cup)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke’s)
• 4 ounces jarred pimentos, drained and diced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or a dash of hot sauce, to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese: Grate both the sharp and medium cheddar cheese using a box grater. Make sure the cheese is cold for easier grating.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Mix Well: Use a sturdy spoon or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment to mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the pimento cheese too runny. You want it to be creamy but still have some texture.
4. Season to Taste: Taste the pimento cheese and add salt and black pepper to your liking. Remember that the cheddar cheese is already salty, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for the best flavor and texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the pimento cheese with crackers, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or on sandwiches. It’s also delicious spread on burgers or used as a dip for potato chips.

Tips for Success

• Use Good Quality Cheese: The quality of the cheese will directly impact the flavor of the pimento cheese. Invest in good quality sharp and medium cheddar cheese for the best results.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting and blending smoothly. Grating your own cheese ensures the perfect texture.
• Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help it blend smoothly and prevent lumps.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the pimento cheese too runny. Mix until just combined, and be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder pimento cheese, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. If you like it spicy, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
• Add-ins: Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite add-ins. Some popular options include chopped jalapenos, chopped green olives, crumbled bacon, or a splash of pickle juice.
• Make it Ahead: Pimento cheese is a great make-ahead appetizer. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, so you can prepare it in advance for parties or gatherings.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Be sure to use a clean spoon each time you scoop out the pimento cheese to prevent contamination.

FAQ

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While you can use pre-shredded cheese in a pinch, we highly recommend grating your own cheese for the best texture and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting and blending smoothly.

Can I freeze pimento cheese?

We do not recommend freezing pimento cheese. Freezing can change the texture and make it watery and grainy when thawed.

What can I serve with pimento cheese?

Pimento cheese is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of foods. Some popular options include crackers, celery sticks, carrot sticks, sandwiches, burgers, potato chips, and even deviled eggs.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version of this recipe by using vegan cheddar cheese, vegan cream cheese, and vegan mayonnaise. There are many great vegan alternatives available on the market.

What kind of mayonnaise should I use?

We recommend using full-fat mayonnaise for the best flavor and creaminess. Duke’s mayonnaise is a Southern favorite, but any good quality full-fat mayonnaise will work.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – the best Southern pimento cheese recipe! It’s creamy, cheesy, slightly spicy, and utterly addictive. This recipe is guaranteed to be a hit at your next party or family gathering. Ditch the store-bought stuff and whip up a batch of this homemade pimento cheese today. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!