Pimento Cheese
Indulge in the creamy and flavorful delight of Pimento Cheese, a classic Southern spread perfect for snacking or sandwiches. Made with a combination of cheeses, mayonnaise, and pimentos, this recipe brings together simple ingredients for a delicious and versatile dish.
Why Make This Recipe
Pimento Cheese is a versatile and easy-to-make recipe that can be enjoyed as a dip, spread, or sandwich filling. It’s great for parties, picnics, or just a quick snack at home. With its creamy texture and tangy flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
How to Make Pimento Cheese
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 cup Monterey Jack (freshly grated)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons jarred diced pimento
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
- Add everything but the parsley to a mixing bowl and beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the mixture into a serving dish and sprinkle the top with parsley, if desired.
- Serve with chips, crackers, fresh vegetables for dipping, or spread between bread as a delicious sandwich filling.
How to Serve Pimento Cheese
Serve Pimento Cheese as a dip with chips or crackers, as a spread on sandwiches or burgers, or even as a topping for grilled meats. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of foods.
How to Store Pimento Cheese
Store Pimento Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before serving again. If the mixture separates, simply mix it back together.
Tips to Make Pimento Cheese
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or garlic powder as needed.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture.
Variation
For a twist on traditional Pimento Cheese, try adding chopped jalapenos for a kick of heat or bacon bits for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for a unique taste.
FAQs
- Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of freshly grated? Freshly grated cheese is recommended for better texture and melting in the spread.
- Is it necessary to use cream cheese in this recipe? Cream cheese helps to add creaminess and structure to the spread, but you can omit it if desired.
- Can I freeze Pimento Cheese? It’s not recommended to freeze Pimento Cheese as the texture may change when thawed.
