If you’ve never tried pimento cheese, you’re in for a creamy, tangy, cheesy treat that defines Southern comfort food. Known as the “caviar of the South,” this easy pimento cheese recipe is a mix of sharp cheddar, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and those sweet red pimentos that bring the perfect pop of flavor.
Whether you’re spreading it on crackers, stuffing it into sandwiches, or using it as a dip for veggies, this homemade pimento cheese will quickly become your go-to recipe. Ready to make the best pimento cheese ever? Let’s dive in! 🧡
🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this Southern classic so irresistible:
Main Ingredients:
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
1 cup Monterey Jack or white cheddar cheese, grated
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup mayonnaise (Duke’s is a Southern favorite!)
½ cup diced pimentos, drained
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional but amazing)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
💡 Pro Tip: Always grate your cheese fresh from the block! Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and can make your pimento cheese grainy.
🧀 1. Mix the Base
In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise.
Using a hand mixer or spatula, beat until smooth and creamy. This will form the rich, velvety base for your pimento cheese spread.
🧈 Flavor Tip: Add a teaspoon of room-temperature butter for an extra silky texture.
🌶️ 2. Add the Cheeses and Pimentos
Now, fold in your grated cheddar, Monterey Jack, and diced pimentos.
Mix gently until all the ingredients are well combined. The goal is to have a slightly chunky texture — creamy but not pureed.
❤️ Optional Add-In: Add 1 finely diced jalapeño or a few drops of hot sauce for a spicy kick!
🧂 3. Season It Just Right
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until the flavors are evenly distributed.
Taste and adjust seasoning — some people like it a bit tangier (add more pimentos), others prefer it extra cheesy (add more cheddar!).
🪄 Secret Tip: For a deeper flavor, refrigerate your pimento cheese for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
🥪 4. How to Serve Pimento Cheese
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility — it goes with everything!
🧀 Classic Sandwich:
Spread between two slices of white bread for the ultimate Southern lunch.
🧀 Pimento Cheese Dip:
Serve with crackers, pretzels, or celery sticks as an appetizer or party snack.
🧀 Burger or Grilled Cheese Topping:
Melt a dollop on your burger or grilled cheese for an irresistible cheesy twist.
🧀 Stuffed Veggies:
Use it to fill celery stalks, mini peppers, or even hard-boiled eggs for a creative snack idea!
🍅 Fun Twist: Try spreading it on tomato slices or warm biscuits for a Southern brunch treat.
🧊 5. Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about pimento cheese is how well it keeps!
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Freeze: Not recommended — dairy tends to separate.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare it the night before serving for deeper, richer flavor.
❄️ Serving Tip: Let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving — the texture becomes perfectly spreadable.
🧡 6. Fun Variations to Try!
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, try putting your own spin on it!
🥓 Smoky Bacon Pimento Cheese:
Stir in crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, salty bite.
🌶️ Spicy Pimento Cheese:
Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced pickled jalapeños for heat lovers.
🧄 Garlic & Herb Pimento Cheese:
Mix in fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for an herby twist.
🧀 Extra Creamy Version:
Add an extra ounce of cream cheese and an extra tablespoon of mayo for ultra-smooth texture.
🔥 Hosting Tip: Serve spicy and regular versions side by side at parties — guests will love the variety!
Nutritional Snapshot (per 2 tbsp serving):
Calories: ~120
Fat: 10g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 1g
🥗 Healthy Swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of some mayonnaise for a lighter but still creamy spread!
7. Pimento Cheese Party Board Idea 🧺
Turn your homemade pimento cheese into a stunning snack board:
Serve it alongside crackers, pretzels, apple slices, and smoked meats.
Add some pickles, olives, and grilled vegetables for a beautiful, colorful platter.
Top with a sprinkle of paprika or shredded cheddar for presentation flair!
🎉 Perfect for holidays, picnics, or cozy nights in — it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite!
Conclusion: Creamy, Cheesy, and Perfectly Southern 🧡
And there you have it — the best pimento cheese recipe ever! Creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor, this Southern staple is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special.
Whether you serve it as a dip, spread it on sandwiches, or enjoy it straight from the spoon (no judgment!), this homemade pimento cheese is guaranteed to impress.
So grab your grater, mix up a batch, and get ready to fall in love with the rich, creamy magic of this timeless recipe. 🧀✨