Best Pimento Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Pimento cheese is a classic Southern spread that’s creamy, tangy, and full of flavor. This recipe combines sharp cheddar cheeses with a touch of spice, making it perfect for sandwiches or as a dip for crackers and vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar
• 1.5 cups shredded extra sharp white cheddar
• 1 cup pimentos, diced
• 1–2 jalapenos, diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3/4 tsp vinegar-based hot sauce (optional)
• 1/2 tsp celery salt
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 1/8 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar, shredded extra sharp white cheddar, diced pimentos, and diced jalapenos.
2. Step 2: Add the mayonnaise, vinegar-based hot sauce (if using), celery salt, white pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Step 3: Serve your pimento cheese spread as a sandwich between two slices of white bread, or use it as a dip with crackers or fresh vegetables.

Tips & Variations

• Adjust the amount of jalapenos to control the heat level to your preference.
• Use sharp or extra sharp cheddar depending on how bold you want the cheese flavor.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
• For a smoother spread, pulse the mixture briefly in a food processor before serving.

Storage

Store pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before serving. If the spread thickens in the fridge, you can soften it with a little extra mayonnaise or a small splash of milk and stir to combine.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time?

Yes, pimento cheese can be made a day or two in advance. This actually allows the flavors to meld together, improving the taste.

Is pimento cheese gluten-free?

The basic ingredients in pimento cheese are naturally gluten-free. Just check specific brands of mayonnaise and hot sauce to be sure if you need to avoid gluten.

Best Pimento Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 149 reviews

This classic Best Pimento Cheese recipe is a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy spread made with sharp cheddar cheeses, diced pimentos, and jalapenos, perfect for sandwiches, dips, or appetizers.

• Author: lucas
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 cups 1x
• Category: Spread
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheeses

• 2.5 Cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar
• 1.5 Cups Shredded Extra Sharp White Cheddar

Vegetables

• 1 Cup Pimentos (diced)
• 1–2 Jalapenos (diced)

Condiments and Spices

• 1/2 Cup Mayonnaise
• 3/4 Tsp Vinegar Based Hot Sauce (optional)
• 1/2 Tsp Celery Salt
• 1/4 Tsp White Pepper
• 1/8 Tsp Salt

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: Add all shredded cheeses, diced pimentos, diced jalapenos, mayonnaise, hot sauce (if using), celery salt, white pepper, and salt into a large bowl.
2. Mix Thoroughly: Stir the mixture well until all the ingredients are fully combined and the texture is creamy and consistent throughout.
3. Serve: Use the pimento cheese as a sandwich filling between two slices of white bread or serve it as a flavorful dip alongside crackers or fresh vegetables.
4. Store: Place any leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to one week.

Notes

• For a milder flavor, reduce or omit jalapenos.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture and flavor.
• Pimentos can be canned or jarred; drain well before adding.
• Adjust hot sauce and celery salt to taste for customized heat and seasoning.
• This spread pairs well with crackers, celery sticks, or as a topping on burgers and sandwiches.

Keywords: pimento cheese, cheese spread, southern recipe, appetizer, sandwich spread, jalapeno cheese dip