Pimento cheese is one of those classic Southern treasures that instantly brings comfort and flavor to any table. Creamy, tangy, and just a little bit savory, it’s like a party in a bowl — and the best part? It takes just minutes to whip up! Whether you’re craving a quick snack, a tasty sandwich spread, or a fun appetizer for guests, this pimento cheese recipe is a true all-rounder. I promise, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Why You’ll Love This Pimento Cheese Recipe
This recipe nails that perfect balance between bold, sharp cheddar cheese and the sweet, mellow bite of diced pimentos. The creamy mayo brings it all together, making it wonderfully spreadable and dip-ready. It’s fast to make — no cooking required, which means it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile: serve it on crackers, use it as a sandwich filling, or even dollop it on burgers and baked potatoes for a flavor boost. You can customize it too, adjusting the spice or texture to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 (4 oz) jar diced pimentos, drained
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Pimento Cheese: Simple Instructions
Start by gathering your ingredients. I like to shred my own sharp cheddar cheese because it melts into the mayo better and tastes fresher, but store-bought shredded cheese works just fine, too.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, creamy mayonnaise, and those vibrant diced pimentos. Add the garlic powder and onion powder — these pantry staples pack a subtle savory punch that really rounds out the flavor. If you like a little heat, toss in the cayenne pepper, but don’t worry if you prefer it mild — this spread tastes amazing either way.
Give everything a good stir until the mixture is creamy and evenly combined. Now’s the time to taste it! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. If you want to go the extra mile, chill it in the fridge for at least an hour. This step lets the flavors meld beautifully, but if you’re in a hurry, it’s perfectly fine to dive right in.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pimento Cheese
- For a richer, silkier texture, try mixing in some softened cream cheese or swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt to lighten it up without sacrificing creaminess.
- Want a smoky twist? Use smoked cheddar or sprinkle in some smoked paprika for depth.
- If you love a bit of crunch, finely chop some celery or green onions and mix them in.
- To turn up the heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Use a hand mixer or food processor if you prefer a smoother dip consistency, but keep it chunky if you like more texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pimento cheese is so versatile that it’s a staple I keep ready in my fridge for any occasion. It’s fabulous as a simple dip with crackers or fresh veggie sticks like celery, cucumber, or bell peppers. It also makes an unbeatable sandwich spread—layer it on crusty bread with some crisp lettuce or tomato for a Southern-style sandwich that’s bursting with flavor.
Feeling a bit adventurous? Dollop pimento cheese on top of grilled burgers, baked potatoes, or even roasted sweet potatoes. It adds a creamy, tangy punch that instantly upgrades any dish. You can even stuff it inside jalapeño poppers or use it as a filling for deviled eggs. Trust me, this spread is more than just a dip; it’s a flavor multiplier.
Storage Instructions
Store your pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to five days, making it perfect for meal prep or a make-ahead snack. Just give it a quick stir before serving again, and it’s good as new.
Avoid freezing this spread, though — the texture can get a bit grainy and watery after thawing, which takes away from that creamy perfection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is pimento cheese made of?
At its heart, pimento cheese combines sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos, but it’s the little additions like garlic and onion powder that take it from good to great.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes better the next day after all those flavors have had time to mingle in the fridge.
Is pimento cheese served hot or cold?
Traditionally, it’s served cold or at room temperature, but it’s delicious melted on burgers or baked potatoes if you want to warm things up.
Can I swap the cheese?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not by default — it’s mild and creamy unless you add cayenne or jalapeños for some heat.
Can I use fresh pimentos?
Yes! Roasted and diced fresh red peppers work perfectly as a substitute for jarred pimentos.
Nutrition Highlights
Each 2-tablespoon serving packs about 110 calories, mostly from fats, but also delivers a nice 4 grams of protein. It’s a satisfying, flavorful spread that can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Final Thoughts
Pimento cheese is a Southern classic that’s stood the test of time for good reason. Its creamy texture, bold cheddar flavor, and sweet pimentos come together in a way that’s irresistibly delicious and so easy to make. Whether you’re prepping a quick snack, making a show-stopping appetizer, or adding a flavorful layer to your sandwiches and burgers, this pimento cheese recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Give it a try, and soon you’ll be reaching for that jar of diced pimentos and sharp cheddar like a true Southern food lover. Enjoy every creamy, tangy bite!
Easy Pimento Cheese Spread
Ingredients
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and drained diced pimentos.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using, then stir until well combined and creamy.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing again to incorporate.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld for best taste.
- Serve chilled as a dip with crackers or vegetables, as a sandwich spread, or as a topping for burgers and baked potatoes.
