Description
This Homemade Pimento Cheese recipe combines sharp and extra-sharp cheddar cheeses with a creamy blend of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and tangy chopped pimentos. Lightly spiced with cayenne and black pepper, this Southern classic is perfect as a spread for crackers, sandwiches, or as a flavorful appetizer. Easy to prepare and customizable to your taste, this pimento cheese keeps well in the refrigerator and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese
- 8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Other Ingredients
- 1 – 4 ounce jar chopped pimentos, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Grate the Cheese: Using a box grater or food processor, grate both the extra-sharp and sharp cheddar cheeses until finely shredded, which will help them blend smoothly into the spread.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, cayenne pepper, and freshly cracked black pepper. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon to mix these ingredients until smooth and well combined.
- Combine All Ingredients: Add the grated cheddar cheeses and drained chopped pimentos to the cream cheese mixture. Stir or blend thoroughly until all components are evenly incorporated. Taste the mixture and add salt as needed to balance the flavors.
- Chill the Spread: Transfer the pimento cheese to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the spread to firm up slightly, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
Notes
- For a smoother spread, finely grate the cheeses or pulse in a food processor.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Homemade pimento cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Serve as a sandwich spread, dip for crackers or vegetables, or use as a flavorful addition to burgers and wraps.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Spread
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
Keywords: pimento cheese, homemade cheese spread, Southern cheese spread, cheddar cheese spread, appetizer, no cook recipe
