Homemade Pimento Cheese is a creamy, tangy, and savory spread that’s a Southern classic, perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip. The main ingredients are sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and mayonnaise, mixed with pimentos (small, jarred red peppers), and sometimes a dash of garlic powder or cayenne pepper for extra flavor. The cheese spread is easy to make, and it can be adjusted to suit your tastes by adding more or less mayo, cheese, or spice.
I first made Homemade Pimento Cheese when I was looking for a flavorful spread for some crackers, and it became an instant hit! The combination of creamy cheese and tangy pimentos is so satisfying, and the spread works beautifully for everything from sandwiches to veggie dip. What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is—you can make it spicy with a little jalapeño or add some chopped scallions for extra bite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, a topping for burgers, or spread on toast, Homemade Pimento Cheese is an indulgent, versatile treat that’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Perfect for:
- Picnic spreads
- Casual gatherings
- Game day snacks
- Sandwich fillings
- Cheese lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Homemade Pimento Cheese is a must-try:
- Classic Southern Flavor: Captures the authentic taste of a Southern staple.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just minutes with minimal prep time.
- Versatile Use: Perfect as a dip, spread, or ingredient in various dishes.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your liking with hot sauce or jalapeños.
- Creamy and Cheesy: Combines sharp cheddar and cream cheese for a velvety texture.
- Perfect for Entertaining: A crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares well in advance and stores beautifully.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and calcium from the cheese.
- Kid-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 2g, Fat: 18g
Ingredients
For the Pimento Cheese:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup diced pimentos, drained
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hot sauce to taste (optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Diced jalapeños for extra heat
- Chopped green onions for added freshness
- Crumbled beef bacon for a smoky twist
Ingredient Highlights
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides a robust, tangy flavor base.
- Pimentos: Adds a sweet and slightly tangy taste.
- Cream Cheese: Ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
- Mayonnaise: Brings richness and helps bind the mixture together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pimento Cheese:
- Mix Cream Cheese and Mayo: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly incorporated.
- Incorporate Pimentos: Gently stir in the diced pimentos.
- Season: Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
- Adjust Spice Level: Add a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat, if desired.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Homemade Pimento Cheese:
- As a Spread: Serve on toasted bread or crackers.
- In Sandwiches: Use as a filling for grilled cheese or tea sandwiches.
- With Vegetables: Pair with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or bell pepper slices.
- As a Dip: Serve alongside tortilla chips or pretzels.
- In Deviled Eggs: Mix into deviled egg filling for a Southern twist.
- On Burgers: Use as a topping for juicy beef or turkey burgers.
- With Baked Potatoes: Spread over warm baked potatoes for a creamy topping.
- As a Stuffing: Fill jalapeños or cherry tomatoes for an appetizer.
- With Pasta: Stir into cooked pasta for a quick pimento cheese pasta dish.
- As a Gift: Pack in a mason jar for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Additional Tips
- Grate Your Own Cheese: For the best texture and flavor, always use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect the creaminess.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your cheese and cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smoother, more consistent blend.
- Adjust Heat Levels: If you like a bit of spice, add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to give your pimento cheese a fiery kick.
- Go for Quality Mayo: The type of mayonnaise you use matters. Duke’s or Hellmann’s are popular choices for authentic Southern flavor.
- Experiment with Cheese Blends: While sharp cheddar is classic, mixing in Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even Pepper Jack can add depth to the flavor.
- Drain the Pimentos: Be sure to drain your pimentos well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the mixture too watery.
- Customize Texture: For chunkier pimento cheese, fold in larger pieces of pimento and cheese. For a smoother spread, use a food processor.
- Add a Sweet Element: A touch of honey or a pinch of sugar can balance out the sharpness of the cheese for a more nuanced flavor.
- Refrigerate Before Serving: Letting the pimento cheese sit in the fridge for an hour or two allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Try It Warm: Heat your pimento cheese slightly for a gooey dip or use it as a topping for burgers, baked potatoes, or grits for a comforting twist.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Jalapeño Kick: Add finely diced fresh jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Smoky Beef Bacon Bliss: Fold in crispy, crumbled beef bacon for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Pickled Perfection: Mix in finely chopped pickled jalapeños, banana peppers, or dill pickles for a tangy kick.
- Creamy Avocado Blend: Mash a ripe avocado into the mixture for extra creaminess and a mild, buttery taste.
- Herb Garden Twist: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for a garden-fresh flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar & Blue: Replace some of the cheddar with crumbled blue cheese for a bold and tangy variation.
- Southwest Style: Add a pinch of cumin and smoked paprika, along with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in toasted, chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
- Greek Inspired: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and mix in crumbled feta cheese and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Sweet Heat Combo: Add a spoonful of honey or hot pepper jelly for a perfect balance of sweetness and heat.
Special Equipment
- Mixing Bowls – Essential for combining ingredients with ease.
- Box Grater – Perfect for shredding cheese to the desired consistency.
- Food Processor – Optional, but speeds up blending for a smoother texture.
- Rubber Spatula – Ideal for scraping every bit of goodness from the bowl.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensures accurate measurements for a balanced flavor.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife – For finely chopping pimentos or other mix-ins.
- Cutting Board – A sturdy surface for safe and precise ingredient prep.
- Hand Mixer – Useful for achieving a fluffy and creamy texture.
- Storage Container with Lid – Keeps the cheese fresh in the fridge.
- Serving Spreader or Knife – For spreading pimento cheese onto crackers or bread.
FAQ Section
- What is pimento cheese?
Pimento cheese is a classic Southern spread made with cheese, pimentos (sweet red peppers), mayonnaise, and a blend of seasonings. - What kind of cheese should I use?
Sharp cheddar cheese is the most common choice for its bold flavor, but you can also use a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for balance. Always opt for freshly grated cheese for the best texture. - Can I substitute fresh peppers for jarred pimentos?
Yes! Roasted red peppers or fresh, roasted sweet peppers can replace jarred pimentos. Just make sure they are finely chopped. - Is homemade pimento cheese better than store-bought?
Homemade pimento cheese allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor. It’s fresher, creamier, and often more delicious than pre-packaged versions. - How long does pimento cheese last in the fridge?
Homemade pimento cheese can last up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. - Can I make pimento cheese spicy?
Absolutely! Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to give your pimento cheese a kick. - Is pimento cheese gluten-free?
Yes, the spread itself is gluten-free, but be mindful of what you serve it with, like crackers or bread, to ensure they’re gluten-free too. - Can I freeze homemade pimento cheese?
It’s not recommended to freeze pimento cheese because mayonnaise and cheese can separate upon thawing, altering the texture. - What are some ways to serve pimento cheese?
Enjoy it as a dip for crackers and veggies, a spread for sandwiches, a topping for burgers, or even mixed into deviled eggs or grits. - Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a healthier substitute for mayonnaise. It will slightly alter the flavor, but it still works well in the recipe.
Conclusion
Homemade Pimento Cheese is a creamy, flavorful spread that combines sharp cheddar cheese, rich mayonnaise, and tangy pimentos into a deliciously addictive dip or sandwich filling. This Southern classic is perfect for parties, picnics, or a quick snack, and its versatility makes it a favorite in many kitchens. The combination of textures and flavors—creamy, cheesy, and a bit of heat from the pimentos—makes this pimento cheese irresistible.
Making it at home allows you to control the quality of the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. Add a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up, or keep it classic for a comforting, simple taste. Whether spread on crackers, piled high on a sandwich, or served with fresh veggies, homemade pimento cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
I can’t wait to see how your Homemade Pimento Cheese turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and tell me how you made this dish your own!