Irresistible Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe For Everyone

Southern kitchens have long celebrated this old-fashioned pimento cheese as a cherished staple of comfort cuisine.

Creamy textures and bold flavors define this classic spread that connects generations.

Grandmothers passed down their unique recipes through handwritten notes and whispered instructions.

Cheese blends perfectly with roasted peppers to create a rich, tangy mixture.

Smooth cream cheese provides a luxurious base for sharp cheddar and zesty pimentos.

Each bite tells a story of traditional southern hospitality and culinary heritage.

Pimento Cheese That’s Rich, Sharp, and Spreadable

• Quick and Easy Prep: Whip up this classic Southern spread in just minutes with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for spreading on crackers, stuffing sandwiches, topping burgers, or enjoying as a dip at parties and gatherings.
• No-Fuss Comfort Food: Requires minimal cooking skills and delivers maximum flavor, making it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced home cooks.
• Customizable Delight: Easily adjust spices, cheese types, or add mix-ins to create your own unique version of this beloved Southern staple.

Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Ingredients Inside

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Classic tangy cheese that provides the primary flavor and texture for the spread.
• Cream Cheese: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, creamy consistency.

• Mayonnaise: Creates a silky base and helps blend all ingredients together.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that balance and highlight the cheese's natural taste.
• Onion Powder, Garlic Powder: Adds depth and aromatic complexity to the spread.
• Parsley: Provides a subtle fresh herb note and visual appeal.

• Worcestershire Sauce: Introduces a tangy, umami undertone that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Sugar: Balances the sharp and savory elements with a touch of sweetness.

• Pimentos: Bright red peppers that contribute color, mild sweetness, and traditional Southern charm to the classic spread.

Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Assembly Steps

Step 1: Grate Fresh Cheddar

Grab a block of sharp cheddar and use a box grater to create fluffy, soft cheese shreds.

Make sure to grate the cheese with consistent strokes for even texture.

Step 2: Create Creamy Base

• Freshly grated cheddar cheese
• Softened cream cheese
• Mayonnaise
• Drained pimentos

Step 3: Season and Enhance Flavor

• Salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Worcestershire sauce
• Pinch of sugar

Step 4: Blend and Whip

Use a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon to thoroughly mix all ingredients.

Stir with circular motions until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and well-incorporated.

Ensure no dry spots remain.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Transfer the pimento cheese to a sealed container.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Serve chilled as a spread on crackers, sandwiches, or as a delightful dip for vegetables.

Pimento Cheese Tips That Grandma Would Approve

• Mix sharp and mild cheddar for a more complex, layered flavor profile that enhances the overall taste.
• Adjust mayonnaise quantity to achieve your desired spreadable consistency, whether you prefer a thicker or lighter texture.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for subtle heat that complements the creamy cheese blend.
• Incorporate finely chopped fresh chives or green onions for a burst of brightness and added crunch.
• Prepare the pimento cheese up to 3-4 days in advance, allowing flavors to meld and intensify in the refrigerator.

Chill Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese

• Store pimento cheese in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days in the coldest part of the refrigerator.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.
• Gently warm at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to restore creamy texture. Stir well to reincorporate ingredients.
• Discard if you notice separation, off-smell, or mold growth. Always use clean utensils when scooping to prevent contamination.

Pimento Cheese Serving Ideas

• Craft a Southern-Style Cheese Board: Arrange the pimento cheese with crisp crackers, pickled okra, and sweet pepper jelly for a classic Southern appetizer experience.
• Pair with Zesty Beverages: Complement the rich, tangy spread with a cold craft beer like an amber ale or a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc to balance the creamy texture.
• Match with Comfort Classics: Serve alongside grilled sandwiches, use as a burger topping, or spread on toasted baguette slices for a satisfying meal that highlights the cheese's bold flavors.
• Enhance with Fresh Sides: Add sliced green apples, spicy jalapeños, or crisp cucumber rounds to provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy, rich pimento cheese spread.

Lemon Chicken Soup with Mediterranean Notes

• Dairy-Free Delight: Swap traditional dairy cheese with cashew or almond-based cheese alternatives and use vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based version that maintains creamy texture.
• Spicy Kick Variation: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to inject heat and create a zesty pimento cheese perfect for those who love bold flavors.
• Low-Fat Option: Replace full-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and light cream cheese to reduce calories while keeping a rich, tangy profile.
• Herb-Infused Version: Mix in fresh chopped herbs like chives, dill, or basil to elevate the classic recipe with bright, aromatic notes that complement the cheese's richness.

FAQs

• Is pimento cheese a Southern dish?

Yes, pimento cheese originated in the Southern United States and is often called the “caviar of the South”, becoming a beloved regional staple especially in states like Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia.

• What are pimentos, and where do they come from?

Pimentos are sweet, mild red peppers originally cultivated in Spain and Portugal, typically smaller and sweeter than regular red bell peppers, and commonly sold jarred or canned for easy use in recipes.

• Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?

While cream cheese adds richness, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier flavor, or skip it entirely for a more traditional pimento cheese texture.

• How long can homemade pimento cheese last in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, homemade pimento cheese typically stays fresh for 5-7 days, maintaining its creamy consistency and delicious flavor when properly refrigerated.

Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe

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4.5 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Southern comfort meets creamy indulgence in this classic pimento cheese recipe, blending sharp cheddar and tangy cream cheese with roasted red peppers. Smooth, spreadable, and irresistibly zesty, you’ll savor each bite of this beloved Southern staple.

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Ingredients

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Cheese Ingredients:

• 2.5 cups (590 ml) cheddar cheese, shredded
• 0.5 cup (120 ml) cream cheese, softened

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder with parsley
• 0.5 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 0.25 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Binding Ingredients:

• 0.5 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
• 4 ounces (113 grams) pimentos, drained

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Instructions

1. Grate the cheddar cheese finely to ensure smooth blending and optimal texture consistency.
2. Soften the cream cheese at room temperature to facilitate easier mixing and prevent lumps.
3. Place the shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, and mayonnaise into a spacious mixing vessel.
4. Incorporate the seasonings – salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried parsley – evenly throughout the mixture.
5. Add Worcestershire sauce and a pinch of sugar to enhance the depth of flavor profile.
6. Drain the pimentos thoroughly and fold them gently into the cheese mixture, ensuring uniform distribution.
7. Use a sturdy spatula or electric mixer to blend ingredients until achieving a creamy, well-integrated consistency.
8. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, ensuring balanced flavor throughout the spread.
9. Transfer the pimento cheese to a clean storage container, smoothing the top for an even presentation.
10. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop a more robust taste.
11. Serve chilled as a versatile spread for sandwiches, crackers, or as a delectable dip for vegetables.

Notes

• Customize cheese varieties by mixing sharp and mild cheddars for a more complex flavor profile.
• Drain pimentos thoroughly to prevent excess moisture that could make the spread runny.
• Use room temperature cream cheese and mayonnaise for smoother, easier mixing.
• Experiment with additional herbs like chives or dill to add unexpected depth to the classic recipe.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Southern (American)

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 145
• Sugar: 0.5 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg