Southern Pimento Cheese Spread
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Elevate your afternoon snack with this classic Southern recipe! Our Pimento Cheese is a creamy blend of cheddar, homemade mayo, diced pimentos, and a hint of onion. Add a kick with jalapeño if you like. Enjoy with veggies, crackers, or bread – it’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and oh-so-good!
I am always looking for my latest snack obsession. For a while, it was definitely oatmeal raisin energy bites. They were sweet, chewy, and everything I needed to get me through that afternoon slump.
But now that summer is in full swing and our garden is producing the freshest veggies. I am now craving a recipe from my childhood…pimento cheese! It’s creamy, tangy, and SO. GOOD.
What Are Pimento Peppers?
Pimento (also known as pimiento!) peppers are basically like really small red bell peppers. They have no heat, but a great flavor! You can often find them under the name cherry peppers when you find them sold fresh in grocery stores.
Though, if you can’t find them with the produce at your local grocery store, don’t worry. You can use the canned diced pimento peppers and it’ll taste the exact same!
The Secret To The Best Pimento Cheese
We all know that pimento cheese consists mainly of 3 ingredients. Mayo, cheddar cheese, and pimento peppers. Well, what if I told you there was a secret 4th ingredient that makes all the difference?
All you need is just a little bit onion! Yes, onion. A few tablespoons really adds SO much flavor that you’ll wonder why you never put it in before now. It’s our secret ingredient that keeps everyone coming back for more!
Oh, and the best part? You only need a mixing bowl to make this recipe! Simply combine everything in a large mixing bowl and give it a good stir. Easy!
How Should I Serve Pimento Cheese?
I feel like the classic way is to spread it between two slices of sandwich bread (I personally love to use multigrain sourdough!) and enjoy as a sandwich. We’ve even dolloped some on a burger for a delicious southern twist!
Though, my favorite way, is simply to serve this as a dip. Grab some carrots, celery, or even some bell pepper to give your veggies that little extra something special. For me, I am all about the crackers. I especially love dipping with our Spicy Cheddar Cheese Crackers!
More Southern Classics:
When you make this Pimento Cheese, leave a comment down below! We love hearing from you and answering any questions you might have! Also, be sure to tag us on social media and hashtag it #BakersTable.
Happy baking!
x, Caylie
Southern Pimento Cheese Spread
Ingredients
- 16 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 ounces diced pimiento, drained
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tablespoons grated onion
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- *2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Shred cheddar cheese into medium size mixing bowl or into the bowl of a food processor.
- Add pimiento, mayonnaise, grated onion, and jalapeño, if using.
- Stir, or pulse, until mixed.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
Notes + Tips!
Tips for Perfect Pimento Cheese
- Cheese Matters: Opt for a sharp cheddar for the best flavor. Freshly grated cheese is key for optimal texture and taste.
- Use Your Favorite Mayo: Use a high-quality mayonnaise for that perfectly creamy base. We love to use homemade for this recipe!
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- Taste as You Go: Start with a small amount of seasonings and gradually increase to your liking.
- Let It Rest: For best flavor, chill the pimento cheese for at least an hour before serving.
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I love this recipe!
Traci, You made me cry. All those memories came flooding back all at once. Our babies are grown now, but mine still talk about summers at your house. I’m so thankful that we were able to give them such warm memories that they will cherish forever.
For those of you that have not tried this recipe…… Print it out NOW. It is the best I’ve ever had !