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Southern Pimento Cheese

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  • Prep Time: 15 minutes plus 30 minutes chill time
  • Total Time: 15 minutes plus 30 minutes chill time
  • Yield: 8 to 10 servings

Description

Southern Pimento Cheese is a quintessential Southern delicacy, often referred to as “the caviar of the South.” This creamy, tangy spread is a harmonious blend of sharp and mild cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos, seasoned with a hint of spice for an added kick. Served cold, it’s a versatile dish enjoyed in a multitude of ways—from a sandwich filling to a cracker topping or even as a dip for fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Be sure to buy block cheese. Freshly grated is the best in this recipe)

1 cup (1- 8-ounce block) shredded mild cheddar cheese

4-ounces of cream cheese, softened

3/4 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s is a Southern favorite, but use your preferred brand)

4 oz. jar of diced pimentos, drained

1/4 cup finely chopped yellow sweet onion or green onion

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) omit if you prefer a milder taste.

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Dash of Tabasco sauce

Optional Add-ins:

– Crumbled crispy bacon

– Toasted pecans

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheeses, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. Stir until well mixed.

2. Add the onions, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper and a dash of Tabasco sauce. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

3. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

4. If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in some crumbled bacon or toasted pecans for an extra layer of flavor.

5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.

Serve your pimento cheese with crackers, on a sandwich, or even as a dip for fresh veggies. And if you really want to impress your guests, top it with a bit of bacon or a sprinkle of toasted pecans before serving. It’s sure to be the hit of the party!

Notes

Do ahead Tip: Pimento cheese can be made up a few days ahead. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 7 days in the refrigerator.