Homemade Pimento Cheese

Let’s talk about one of the South’s most beloved comfort foods Homemade Pimento Cheese. Creamy, tangy, cheesy, and just a little peppery, this spread is the kind of thing that sneaks onto everything once you make it. Whether you’re piling it high on crackers, spreading it into a sandwich, or sneaking a spoonful straight from the bowl (no shame), this recipe is the ultimate mix of simple ingredients with big personality.

It’s rich, it’s creamy, and it packs that perfect punch of flavor thanks to those little diced pimentos and just the right blend of seasonings. This one’s a keeper, trust me you’re going to love it.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Pimento Cheese

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Spread it on crackers, sandwiches, burgers, or use it as a dip. There’s really no wrong way.
Budget-Friendly: Made with a handful of fridge and pantry staples easy on your wallet and always a hit.
Quick and Easy: Comes together in just minutes. No cooking, no fuss, just mix and enjoy.
Customizable: Make it spicy, smoky, or mild adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Homemade Pimento Cheese

This spread is all about bold flavor and creamy texture with a pop of color from the pimentos. Here’s what goes into the magic:

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The heart and soul of pimento cheese. Freshly grated for the creamiest, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Cream Cheese: Adds body and smoothness, making the spread rich and luscious.

Mayonnaise: Brings everything together with a creamy tang. Duke’s is the Southern go-to, but use your favorite.

Diced Pimentos: These sweet, mild peppers give the cheese its signature flavor and cheerful red specks.

Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle depth that rounds out the flavor.

Onion Powder: For a little extra savory oomph.

Cayenne Pepper or Hot Sauce (Optional): Want a kick? Add a little heat to take things up a notch.

Salt and Pepper: To taste just a pinch can bring all those flavors to life.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: No preheating necessary here it’s a no-cook recipe, which makes it all the more lovable.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, mayo, diced pimentos, and seasonings. If you’re using hot sauce or cayenne, toss it in now.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Okay, not quite a cooking vessel—but grab a sturdy bowl or food container to hold your finished spread.

Assemble the Dish: Mix everything together until smooth and well-combined. You can keep it chunky or stir until super creamy it’s your call.

Cook to Perfection: No cooking needed! Just chill the mixture for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. If you can wait, it tastes even better after a few hours.

Finishing Touches: Give it one last stir before serving. Taste and adjust salt or spice if needed.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled or at room temp with crackers, toast, or veggies—or sneak a spoonful, we won’t tell.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 220

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus optional chilling)

How to Serve Homemade Pimento Cheese

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Scoop it onto buttery crackers or celery sticks for a snacky appetizer. Spread it between slices of white bread for the ultimate Southern sandwich. Dollop it on burgers, grilled cheese, or even baked potatoes. Want to get fancy? Use it as a filling for stuffed mini peppers or as a dip with pretzels at your next party.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Use block cheese and shred it yourself it melts and mixes better than pre-shredded.
• Let the cream cheese soften for easier mixing.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, mix with a hand mixer or food processor.
• Don’t skip chilling it helps the flavors really come alive.
• Adjust the mayo to your texture preference less for thicker spread, more for smoother dip.
• Add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
• Mix in chopped jalapeños if you want it spicy.
• Keeps in the fridge for up to a week if it lasts that long.
• Stir before serving sometimes it settles a bit.
• Double it for parties it disappears fast.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge once the flavors meld.

2. What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in pepper jack, gouda, or even a bit of smoked cheese.

3. Can I freeze pimento cheese?
It’s not ideal. The texture changes and becomes grainy after thawing—better to make fresh.

4. How long does it last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for about a week.

5. Can I make it without cream cheese?
Sure! It’ll be a bit lighter and more spreadable just use extra mayo to balance it out.

6. Is this recipe spicy?
Not unless you make it spicy! The base recipe is mild, but cayenne or hot sauce adds heat.

7. What are pimentos, anyway?
They’re sweet red peppers usually found diced in jars near the pickles at the store.

8. Can I make it dairy-free?
It’s tricky, but possible with dairy-free cheese, mayo, and cream cheese substitutes.

9. Is this keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low in carbs, high in fat, and works great for keto-style snacking.

10. How do I use leftovers creatively?
Stuff it in burgers, grilled cheese, deviled eggs, or melt it over nachos it’s super versatile.

Conclusion

Homemade Pimento Cheese is more than just a Southern tradition it’s comfort in a bowl. Creamy, cheesy, peppery goodness that’s endlessly snackable, spreadable, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re whipping it up for a party, packing it into sandwiches, or keeping a secret stash for yourself (hey, we all do it), this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. So grab your cheese grater and get mixing your taste buds are in for a treat!

Print