Can I use light cream cheese or mayonnaise to make this recipe healthier?

Yes, you can use light versions of both ingredients and still get good results. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious. I don't recommend using fat-free products, however, as they can significantly alter both taste and texture.

Why is my pimento cheese watery?

This usually happens when the pimientos aren't drained well enough. Make sure to press them in a strainer or even pat them dry with paper towels before adding to your cheese mixture. Also, letting the mixture sit in the refrigerator helps it firm up.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While the colby and sharp cheddar combination is traditional, you can experiment with white cheddar, monterey jack, pepper jack, or even a touch of blue cheese. Just maintain the same total amount of cheese (3 cups) to keep the right consistency.

How spicy is this recipe?

As written with the optional hot sauce, it has just a subtle kick. If you prefer more heat, increase the hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. If serving to those who are sensitive to spice, simply omit the hot sauce entirely.

Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe

This Southern Pimento Cheese is a creamy, tangy spread that perfectly balances sharp cheddar with sweet pimientos and a hint of spice. It’s an iconic Southern staple that comes together in minutes, making it perfect for everything from quick afternoon snacks to elegant party appetizers. The combination of cheeses creates a depth of flavor that store-bought versions simply can’t match, while the addition of cream cheese gives it that irresistibly smooth texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentically Southern: This recipe stays true to traditional Southern flavors while incorporating a few special touches that make it truly exceptional.
Versatile: Works as a sandwich spread, dip for crackers and vegetables, or even as a topping for burgers and baked potatoes.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors actually improve after a day in the refrigerator, making it perfect for entertaining.
Customizable: Easy to adjust the spice level, cheese blend, and add-ins to suit your personal taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cream cheese: Creates that silky-smooth base texture that makes this pimento cheese so spreadable and luxurious.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness and tanginess; use real mayonnaise (not Miracle Whip) for authentic results.
Worcestershire sauce: Provides depth with its umami punch—just a little goes a long way.
Apple cider vinegar: Brightens all the flavors with its subtle tanginess.
Hot sauce: Optional but recommended for just a hint of heat without overwhelming the other flavors.
Sugar: Balances the tang of the vinegar and complements the sweetness of the pimientos.
Dried mustard: Adds complexity and a subtle kick that enhances the cheese flavors.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in this spread.
Pimientos: The star ingredient! These sweet red peppers give the spread its distinctive color and flavor.
Colby cheese: Adds a creamy mildness that balances the sharp cheddar perfectly.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides that bold, tangy flavor that’s essential to great pimento cheese.
Green onions: Optional but delicious for adding a fresh, mild onion flavor and pretty color contrast.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to make this pimento cheese your own? Try these tasty twists:

Bacon Lover’s Version: Stir in 4-6 strips of crispy, crumbled bacon for a smoky dimension.
Spicy Southern: Add a finely diced jalapeño (seeds removed) or a 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for serious heat.
Garlic Lover’s Spread: Mix in 1-2 cloves of finely minced garlic or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
Herbed Pimento Cheese: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs like chives, dill, or parsley.
Smoked Gouda Blend: Replace half the colby with smoked gouda for a delicious smoky flavor profile.

How to Make Southern Pimento Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce (if using), sugar, dried mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. A hand mixer on low speed works perfectly for this step.

Step 2: Fold in the Cheeses

Add the well-drained pimientos, shredded colby, and shredded sharp cheddar to the cream cheese mixture. Fold everything together with a spatula until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add Optional Ingredients

If using green onions, gently fold them in at this point. This adds a fresh flavor contrast and beautiful color to the finished spread.

Step 4: Let the Flavors Meld

For the best flavor, cover the pimento cheese and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving, though overnight is even better. This resting time allows all those wonderful flavors to come together.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your pimento cheese grainy. Take the extra couple of minutes to shred your own—you’ll notice the difference!
Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened to avoid lumps in your spread.
Drain Those Pimientos: Take the time to really drain the pimientos well—excess liquid can make your spread too runny.
Adjust to Taste: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust seasonings before chilling. The flavors will intensify slightly as it sits.
Texture Preferences: For a smoother spread, pulse the mixture a few times in a food processor. For more texture, hand mix with a spoon instead of using a mixer.

How to Serve

Southern Pimento Cheese is incredibly versatile and can elevate almost any meal or gathering:

As an Appetizer:

Serve with butter crackers, celery sticks, cucumber rounds, or pretzel rods. It’s always the first thing to disappear at parties!

For Lunch:

Spread between two slices of white bread for a classic Southern pimento cheese sandwich. For extra indulgence, butter the outside and grill it for a pimento cheese melt.

For Dinner:

Top a hot burger with a dollop just before serving, or use as a filling for stuffed chicken breasts. It also makes an incredible topping for baked potatoes!

At Brunch:

Spread on toasted bagels or English muffins for a savory breakfast treat that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors actually improve after the first day!

Make Ahead

This is an ideal make-ahead recipe. Prepare it up to three days before your event for peak flavor and convenience.

Freezing

While technically you can freeze pimento cheese, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.

Serving from Cold

For the best flavor and texture, remove the pimento cheese from the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before serving to take the chill off. This allows the flavors to fully express themselves.

FAQs

Can I use light cream cheese or mayonnaise to make this recipe healthier?

Yes, you can use light versions of both ingredients and still get good results. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious. I don’t recommend using fat-free products, however, as they can significantly alter both taste and texture.
Why is my pimento cheese watery?

This usually happens when the pimientos aren’t drained well enough. Make sure to press them in a strainer or even pat them dry with paper towels before adding to your cheese mixture. Also, letting the mixture sit in the refrigerator helps it firm up.
Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While the colby and sharp cheddar combination is traditional, you can experiment with white cheddar, monterey jack, pepper jack, or even a touch of blue cheese. Just maintain the same total amount of cheese (3 cups) to keep the right consistency.
How spicy is this recipe?

As written with the optional hot sauce, it has just a subtle kick. If you prefer more heat, increase the hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. If serving to those who are sensitive to spice, simply omit the hot sauce entirely.

Final Thoughts

This Southern Pimento Cheese recipe isn’t just food—it’s a tradition in a bowl. Whether you’re a born-and-raised Southerner or trying it for the first time, this spread captures the essence of Southern hospitality: simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Give it a try for your next gathering, and watch as everyone asks for your secret recipe. The perfect balance of creamy, tangy, sweet, and savory flavors makes this much more than just a cheese spread—it’s a Southern delicacy worth sharing!