Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here from Chef Maniac! If there’s one sandwich that instantly transports me to a sunny porch in the South, it’s a perfectly crafted pimiento cheese sandwich. But today, we’re not just making a sandwich; we’re elevating it to a whole new level of golden, crispy, melty goodness: the Grilled Pimiento Cheese Sandwich. Forget everything you thought you knew about grilled cheese – this Southern icon is about to become your new obsession.

Why I Love This Recipe

What’s not to love about a sandwich that combines the creamy, tangy delight of pimiento cheese with the irresistible crispy, buttery crunch of a grilled bread exterior? This recipe is pure comfort food at its finest, but it’s also incredibly simple to make. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or even a fun brunch. The pimiento cheese itself is easy to whip up, and the grilling process transforms it into a warm, gooey masterpiece. It’s a timeless classic that always brings a smile to my face, and I know it will do the same for you.

List of Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these heavenly grilled pimiento cheese sandwiches:

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated (or another sharp white cheddar)
• 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimientos, drained well
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s or your favorite brand)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 8 slices good quality white bread or sourdough bread
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Swaps and Notes

• Cheese: While sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack are my go-to, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack, medium cheddar, or even a smoked cheddar for added depth.
• Mayonnaise: The type of mayonnaise you use really matters here! Southern purists swear by Duke’s, but use your favorite creamy, full-fat mayo for the best results.
• Pimientos: Ensure your pimientos are well-drained. Excess liquid can make the cheese spread too wet. You can even pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Bread: A good sturdy white bread or a rustic sourdough holds up beautifully to grilling and provides a perfect crispy exterior. Avoid thin, flimsy sandwich bread.
• Spice Level: The cayenne pepper is optional, but it adds a lovely subtle warmth that really complements the richness of the cheese.

List of Steps for the Recipe

1. Make the Pimiento Cheese: In a medium bowl, combine the grated cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, well-drained diced pimientos, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. You can do this by hand or using a fork.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread softened butter generously on one side of each slice of bread.
3. Fill the Sandwiches: Place four slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean surface. Divide the pimiento cheese mixture evenly among these four slices, spreading it almost to the edges. Top with the remaining four slices of bread, butter-side up.
4. Preheat Skillet/Griddle: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. You want enough heat to toast the bread and melt the cheese without burning the outside.
5. Grill the Sandwiches: Carefully place the sandwiches in the hot skillet, butter-side down. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the pimiento cheese is beautifully melted and gooey. You may need to adjust the heat as you go to prevent burning.
6. Serve: Remove the grilled sandwiches from the skillet. For best results, let them rest for a minute or two before slicing in half diagonally and serving hot.

Tips for Success

• Medium-Low Heat is Key: Don’t rush the grilling process. Low to medium-low heat ensures the bread gets perfectly golden and crispy while giving the cheese ample time to melt all the way through without burning the exterior.
• Even Butter Spreading: Make sure the butter is evenly spread on the bread for uniform browning.
• Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting, don’t overstuff your sandwiches. Too much filling can make them difficult to grill and cause cheese to ooze out excessively.
• Drain Pimientos Well: This cannot be stressed enough! Excess moisture from the pimientos can make your cheese mixture watery, leading to a less desirable texture.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These grilled pimiento cheese sandwiches are delightful on their own, but here are some ideas to make a complete meal:

• Tomato Soup: A classic pairing! The creamy, tangy pimiento cheese is a perfect match for a warm bowl of tomato soup.
• Chips and Pickles: A side of your favorite potato chips and some dill pickle slices add a satisfying crunch and tang.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can cut through the richness of the sandwich.
• Appetizer Spread: Thinking about a party? You can turn a classic sandwich into an ultimate cheesy hot dip; my How I Turned a Classic Sandwich into the Ultimate Cheesy Hot Dip is a must-try alongside your grilled pimiento cheese.
• More Dips! If you’re hosting, consider other crowd-pleasing cheesy dips like my beloved Crockpot Nacho Dip or even my Beer Cheese Dip.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Pimiento cheese spread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld! However, grilled pimiento cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately. Reheating them often results in a less crispy exterior and the cheese can become oily.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you’re a fan of cheesy, comforting, and utterly delicious recipes, you’re in for a treat! Check out some of my other favorites:

• For another fantastic cheesy appetizer perfect for entertaining, my Baked Brie Appetizer is a total winner.
• If you love party food hacks, you absolutely have to try my Totchos: Tater Tot Nachos for the Win – they disappear in minutes!

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Final Thoughts

The Grilled Pimiento Cheese Sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience, a taste of Southern hospitality in every bite. It proves that simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and let that golden, melty goodness brighten your day.

What are your go-to comfort food sandwiches? Share your favorites in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delicious recipes that bring joy to your kitchen.