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.
Theda says
MY Mom made pimento cheese when I was real young( a long time ago) and all I can remember was she used cream cheese and pimento, I know there had to be more but I can’t remember what. Anyway, In Ga. there was Mrs. Kinsers pimento cheese, smooth or chunky. I can’t find it anymore, I loved to use it for a dip with fritoes.
Ginger says
Yes, Paula Deans pimento cheese calls for cream cheese also.
Allison says
I live in NY but visited family in SC and went to college in GA. I loved Ruth’s pimento cheese. I could only find it down there. I miss it soooo much and can’t seem to find a recipe that tastes similar. I’m going to give this a try!
Natalie says
Hi! I love pimento cheese and can’t wait to try your recipe! Quick question, is it tsp or tbsp for the Worcestershire sauce? Thanks!
Jocelyn (Grandbaby Cakes) says
Teaspoons! Let me know how it turns out for you!
Martha Elaine Brown says
I love the way you added 4 cheeses , that is going to make this recipe even better. Also the spices I always knew my pimento cheese needed something. Thank you for sharing, I am going to make this now I love Pimento Cheese.
Kate says
This looks like the most amazing snack, can’t wait to try it!
Kathy Lewis says
Need this in my life
Tatiana says
I absolutely love how this dip looks.. and sounds. It’s so cheesy and flavorful. Yummy! I’m hosting a party this weekend and this will be perfect for my guest to serve them. Saving this recipe.
Alina | Cooking Journey Blog says
I love cheese, so I think this would be a delicious snack for me, especially so beautifully served.
Dawn says
I looooove pimento cheese, this would be great to add to my charcuteries! What an easy recipe!
Denise says
I love a good dip, and I am a big fan of cheese, so this is a win with me. it looks so creamy and flavorful, I am sure its quite addicting as well!