Description
This classic Pimento Cheese recipe is a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy spread that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with sharp cheddar cheese, creamy mayonnaise, and pimentos, it’s a versatile delight that’s easy to prepare and even better when chilled.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 ounces jarred pimentos, drained and finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Creamy Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Beat until smooth and well-combined.
- Fold in Cheese and Pimentos: Fold in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped pimentos. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Season to Taste: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
- Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover the pimento cheese spread and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This step is optional but allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve your pimento cheese spread with crackers, on sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables.
Notes
- Cheese Choice: Using a good quality cheddar cheese will enhance the flavor of the pimento cheese. Opt for medium or sharp cheddar for a richer taste.
- Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled as a spread on crackers, bread, or use as a dip for fresh vegetables. It also works great as a filling for sandwiches or as a topper for burgers.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before serving if it’s been sitting for a few days.
- Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use freshly grated cheese and freshly chopped pimentos, if available. Pre-shredded cheese and jarred pimentos are convenient, but fresh ingredients are best.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
