Name: Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos (drained); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste

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If you’re hunting for the ultimate Southern comfort appetizer, look no further than Pimento Cheese Spread. Creamy, tangy, and brimming with cheese-lover appeal, this classic recipe effortlessly transforms humble ingredients into a versatile snack or party centerpiece. With each bite, you’ll taste the juicy pimentos, smooth cheeses, and a gentle tingle of spice, making this spread both nostalgic and excitingly irresistible. It’s great for gatherings, sandwich upgrades, or simply scooping up with fresh veggies on a lazy afternoon!

Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Pimento Cheese Spread is refreshingly simple, yet every item pulls its weight in delivering the perfect blend of bold and mellow flavors. Each element brings its own unique character to the show—cheese for richness, mayo for creaminess, pimentos for color and tang, and just the right hints of seasoning.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): This is the foundation, offering a sharp, rich bite that anchors the flavor.
Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds a mellow creaminess that keeps things light and smooth.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Provides the creamy base that ties every ingredient together—use a good quality mayo for best results.
Diced Pimentos (1 4-ounce jar, drained): These bright red beauties give the spread its signature color and sweet, tangy depth.
Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Offers an aromatic touch that melds seamlessly into the spread.
Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle savory notes without overwhelming the other flavors.
Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a cheeky kick at the end—add to taste!
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect balance.

How to Make Pimento Cheese Spread

Step 1: Combine the Cheeses

Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and adding your shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese. Using freshly grated cheese really goes a long way in flavor and meltability, but bagged cheese works if you’re short on time. Give them a light toss together, just enough to start blending their textures evenly.

Step 2: Add the Creamy and Flavorful Ingredients

Spoon in your mayonnaise and drop in the drained diced pimentos. Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, a touch of cayenne pepper if you like things spicy, and a dash of salt and black pepper. The magic happens when the mayo hugs all the other ingredients in creamy goodness while the spices quietly elevate the spread.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

Grab a sturdy spoon or spatula and stir the mixture slowly but thoroughly. Scrape the sides and make sure the pimentos and seasonings are dispersed throughout the mix. At this stage, aim for a unified, creamy consistency—if you like your Pimento Cheese Spread extra smooth, pulse it a few times in a food processor for a dreamy texture.

Step 4: Season and Taste

Give your spread a little taste test. Adjust the salt, pepper, or cayenne as needed to suit your preference. Sometimes, an extra pinch of salt or a tiny splash of hot sauce can take your spread from great to unforgettable!

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover your bowl and pop the Pimento Cheese Spread into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This quick chill session allows the flavors to meld and settle, making the final result truly irresistible. Serve chilled or at room temperature for maximum enjoyment.

How to Serve Pimento Cheese Spread

Garnishes

Adding a simple garnish not only makes your Pimento Cheese Spread look extra inviting, but can bring a new layer of flavor as well. Sprinkle with fresh chopped chives, parsley, or even a few extra diced pimentos on top for a pop of color and an herby touch.

Side Dishes

Pimento Cheese Spread has a wonderful way of pairing harmoniously with a variety of sides. Classic options include crispy crackers, slices of baguette, toasted rye, or a bounty of crunchy crudités like celery, carrots, and sweet mini peppers. Let your imagination (and your pantry) guide you!

Creative Ways to Present

Switch up your serving style for a little fun: pipe the spread into celery sticks or mini phyllo cups for a playful appetizer tray, spoon onto sandwiches or burgers for an instant flavor boost, or serve as a dollop atop grits or baked potatoes for that wow-factor at brunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pimento Cheese Spread in an airtight container, nestled safely in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 5 days, retaining its creamy texture and bold flavors, making it a terrific make-ahead option for parties or snack attacks throughout the week.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze Pimento Cheese Spread, be prepared for the texture to change a bit upon thawing—the mayonnaise and cheeses may separate slightly. If you do need to freeze, use a well-sealed container, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before stirring vigorously to restore some smoothness.

Reheating

Pimento Cheese Spread is generally served chilled or at room temperature, but if you want it a little warmer or melty (say, as a grilled cheese filling), microwave it in 15-second bursts, stirring each time, or heat gently on the stovetop just until softened—don’t overdo it, or the mayo could break.

FAQs

What is the best cheese to use for Pimento Cheese Spread?

Sharp cheddar is the gold standard for authentic flavor, but blending it with something mild and creamy like Monterey Jack strikes a beautiful balance between tangy, sharp, and smooth. Freshly grated cheese always delivers the best texture.

Can I make Pimento Cheese Spread without mayonnaise?

Absolutely! You can substitute with Greek yogurt or whipped cream cheese for a different profile. Just note that mayo is traditional and gives the spread its signature creamy tang.

Is Pimento Cheese Spread gluten-free?

Yes, the basic recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just keep an eye on what you serve alongside it—pair it with gluten-free crackers, breads, or crisps to keep the experience safe for everyone.

How spicy is this spread?

As written, it’s mild with a hint of warmth from a sprinkle of cayenne. If you crave more heat, add extra cayenne, a splash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to tailor the bite to your liking!

Can I use roasted red peppers instead of pimentos?

Yes, in a pinch, roasted red peppers can bring similar sweetness and color. Dice them finely and drain well before adding. The flavor will be a bit smokier but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend trying this Pimento Cheese Spread enough. Whether you need a snack for a crowd or a little comfort food just for yourself, it’s a Southern staple that never disappoints. Grab those ingredients and whip up a batch—your taste buds will thank you!

Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe

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4.6 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

This Pimento Cheese Spread is a classic Southern favorite that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. Creamy and flavorful, it’s great for spreading on crackers or serving with fresh vegetables.