Description
A classic Southern appetizer, this creamy Pimento Cheese spread combines sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos with a hint of garlic and cayenne pepper for a flavorful and versatile dip or sandwich filling. Perfect for entertaining or a quick snack, it’s easy to prepare and delicious when chilled.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
Others
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup jarred pimentos, drained and diced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Collect all ingredients and place them into a large mixing bowl to prepare for combining.
- Grate Cheese: Finely grate the sharp cheddar cheese if not already grated, then add it to the bowl with the softened cream cheese.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the mayonnaise, diced pimentos, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to the bowl. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the pimento cheese mixture and add more cayenne pepper or garlic powder if desired to suit your preference.
- Chill: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld and the spread to firm up slightly.
- Serve: Enjoy the pimento cheese chilled as a dip with crackers or vegetables, or use it as a flavorful sandwich filling.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, blend the mixture briefly in a food processor.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level to your liking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Pimentos can be substituted with roasted red peppers if preferred.
- This spread pairs well with crackers, celery sticks, or as a sandwich spread.
