This Delicious and Super Easy Pimento Cheese recipe is filled with impactful flavor! Various decadent sharp and creamy cheeses, pimento peppers, and incredible spices mix together with mayo to create the perfect Southern cheese spread with a kick.
If you’re someone who either grew up in the South or was raised by a Southern family then you know about our love for cheese. It can be creamy, pungent, sharp, buttery, salty and maybe even a little sweet. Cheese can be added to almost anything and the entire dish almost instantly becomes more comforting. Although it may not be the healthiest addition to your meal it adds flavor that just can’t be denied.
What Is Pimento Cheese?
A classic Southern cheese, one that my family and I enjoyed often, is Pimento Cheese. Whether spread between two slices of Wonder Bread, served in a bowl with crackers or simply eaten with a fork straight out of its container, it is fantastic. The flavor is sharp, smokey and slightly spicy while the texture is creamy with just enough bite. Hold on, my mouth is watering.
It is a wonderful appetizer to serve along with Deviled Eggs and Tomato Tarts when entertaining as well.
The Heart and Soul of the Best Pimento Cheese Recipe
Cuisine Inspiration: Southern
Primary Cooking Method: Mixing
Dietary Info: Vegetarian
Key Flavor: Cheesy and Spicy
Skill Level: Easy
Sweet Highlights:
Perk 1: Quick and Easy – This recipe is a breeze to put together, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a speedy snack.
Perk 2: Customizable Heat – You have the control to spice it up or keep it mild based on your personal preference.
Perk 3: Versatile Use – Pimento cheese isn’t just a spread; it’s a multitasker! Use it in sandwiches, as a dip, or even stuffed into veggies.
Perk 4: Rich and Creamy Texture – The combination of cheeses and mayonnaise creates a luxurious spread that’s irresistible.
Perk 5: A Southern Staple – Embrace the charm and flavors of the South with this beloved classic that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
Today, I’m sharing with you not only the ultimate Easy Pimento Cheese recipe but a piece of true Southern living. The ingredients in this recipe are super simple and come together in no time.
The ingredients are:
- Mayonnaise
- Pimentos
- Onion
- Various Spices
- Cheese! Tons of Cheese!
It’s important that you choose ingredients that are fresh and carry strong flavors. For instance, I like to use cayenne and Worcestershire sauce for additional kick and tang. I also LOVE to add a variety of different cheeses to vary up the flavor.
Tip: If you’re looking to amplify this recipe, buy your cheeses in whole blocks and grate them finely yourself. Pre-shredded cheeses can sometimes be coated with preservatives that dull the sharpness and prevent flavor from really shining through. But don’t worry, if you choose not to shred your cheese the end result will still be amazing.
How to Make Pimento Cheese
Start your recipe by whisking together your mayonnaise, pimentos, onion, Worcestershire sauce and spices in a medium sized bowl. You are completely in control of how spicy you want this recipe to be. Adding or subtracting cayenne pepper and pimentos will allow you to customize your spice level.
Next carefully fold in your cheeses with a spatula until well mixed and combined throughout. Refrigerate for at least three hours and then it’s ready to be served! I mean, how easy is that?
Tip: If you want your pimento cheese to be super smooth without texture, just throw the ingredients in a food processor to smooth out to your preference.
Storage
Ensure your pimento cheese retains its delightful creaminess by storing it in an airtight container, nestled in the chill of your refrigerator. This zesty spread will stay fresh and flavorful for up to a week.
How to Serve
For a traditional serving option, spread this cheesy delight on crackers or celery sticks, creating the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess. Alternatively, elevate your sandwiches and burgers by slathering on a generous layer of pimento cheese, transforming a simple meal into a gourmet experience with an added kick of spice and flavor.
Pimento Cheese
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 (4 ounce) jar diced pimentos drained
- 1 tbsp grated vidalia onion with juice
- 1 1/2 tsp worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 tsp seasoned salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp yellow cheddar (Best if grated with food processor or by hand finely from a block)
- 1 cup shredded medium yellow cheddar (Best if grated with food processor or by hand finely from a block)
- 1/2 cup shredded mild white cheddar (Best if grated with food processor or by hand finely from a block)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (Best if grated with food processor or by hand finely from a block)
Instructions
- In a medium sized bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, pimentos, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne together.
- Next carefully fold in all cheeses with a spatula until well mixed and combined throughout. Add to a container and refrigerate for 3 hours then serve. Use within 1 week.
JuLee says
Tried it and loved it. I’m a Southern gal and grew up eating Price’s original Pimiento cheese with soft white bunny bread and nothing seems better to me. Thanks for such a fun blog and website. LOVE IT and have saved some recipes to try. I take care of my 91 year old Momma and cook for her. So I bet she will love everything.
Candace Caddell says
Wonderful recipe! After reading many pimiento cheese recipes, I had decided to mix all the ingredients except the cheddar cheese, then stir in the cheese. Here you have recommended just that! And your idea of using mozarella cheese instead of cream cheese was exactly what I was searching for – I didn’t come up with that idea myself, and I am so excited that I found it with you! Thanks for a fabulous recipe.
Nancy Russell says
Can’t wait to try this…!!!
Alayna says
This was so yummy. My husband planted some pimento peppers for me this year and we finally were able to pick a few so I googled this recipe. I only had sharp cheddar and mozzarella and it still came out great. I also added about 2 tablespoons of diced jalapeño. Will definitely put this on summer rotation.
Laura says
I made deviled eggs with it, was the perfect filling!!
Jocelyn (Grandbaby Cakes) says
Oh that is so genius!
Cathy G Bachara says
I added a little jalapeno pepper minced. It was soooo much better the next day!! The thanksgiving crowd was crazy about it and I shared the recipe!! Thanks!! My go to pimento cheese recipe from now on!!
Janet says
Thanks so much for posting this can’t wait to try it! You posted the nutritional info how much pimento cheese would you get for that? Thanks in advance!
Jocelyn (Grandbaby Cakes) says
About 4-5 servings. I hope you enjoy.