There are few culinary delights as deeply rooted in Southern tradition and as utterly satisfying as a good batch of Homemade Pimento Cheese. Often called “the caviar of the South,” this creamy, savory spread is far more than just cheese and pimentos. It’s a versatile, flavor-packed staple perfect for sandwiches, crackers, vegetables, or just eating by the spoonful! This recipe honors the classic rendition, ensuring you get that perfect balance of sharp cheddar, tangy pimentos, and rich creaminess that makes pimento cheese so irresistible.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a firm believer that some of the best foods are the simplest, and homemade pimento cheese is a perfect example. What I love most about this recipe is how it achieves that coveted creamy yet textured consistency and a phenomenal depth of flavor. The key is grating your own extra-sharp cheddar and the secret addition of cream cheese, which provides an extra layer of richness without being overtly noticeable. It’s a nostalgic taste that brings me back to family gatherings, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—it disappears fast on a platter but also makes the best grilled cheese you’ll ever have!
List of Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create your incredibly delicious Homemade Pimento Cheese:
- 1 (8 oz) block extra sharp cheddar cheese (yields about 2 cups grated)
- ½ to 1 cup mayonnaise (start with ½ cup and add more to desired consistency)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- A dash of garlic salt
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 (4 oz) jar diced pimentos, thoroughly drained
Swaps and Notes
- Cheddar Cheese: The recipe specifically calls for an 8 oz block of extra sharp cheddar cheese that you grate yourself. This is crucial! Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that prevent them from melting and mixing smoothly, making your pimento cheese grainy or less creamy. Extra sharp provides the best robust flavor.
- Mayonnaise: The amount of mayonnaise is to taste and consistency. Start with ½ cup for a firmer spread, and add more, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired creaminess. Use your favorite brand of mayo, as its flavor will come through.
- Cream Cheese: This is the secret ingredient for an extra creamy, smooth pimento cheese without adding too much mayonnaise. Ensure it is softened to room temperature to blend easily. You won’t overtly taste the cream cheese, but it adds a wonderful richness and helps bind everything.
- Pimentos: A 4 oz jar of diced pimentos is standard. Make sure they are well drained to avoid a watery pimento cheese.
- Seasoning: A dash of garlic salt enhances the savory notes. Taste and add additional salt and black pepper as needed. Some people like a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick!
- Yield & Storage: This recipe yields a generous amount and is good for up to 10 days in the refrigerator, making it excellent for meal prep or entertaining.
List of Steps for the Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create your perfectly creamy Homemade Pimento Cheese:
- Grate the Cheese: Start by grating the 8 oz block of extra sharp cheddar cheese yourself. This yields approximately 2 cups of grated cheese. Set aside.
- Combine Creamy Bases: In a large mixing bowl, add the grated cheddar cheese, ½ cup mayonnaise (you can always add more later), and the 8 oz softened cream cheese.
- Add Initial Seasoning: Sprinkle in a dash of garlic salt and a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
- Mix Everything (Except Pimentos): Using a sturdy spoon, spatula, or even a hand mixer on low speed, mix all these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. Ensure the cream cheese is fully incorporated with no lumps. If you prefer a looser consistency, add more mayonnaise, a tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Fold in Pimentos: After the cheese and mayonnaise mixture is to your liking, add the drained 4 oz jar of diced pimentos.
- Gentle Mix: Stir the pimentos in by hand with a spoon or spatula. You want to gently fold them in without breaking them up too much.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the pimento cheese and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want more salt, pepper, or a tiny bit more garlic salt, depending on your preference.
- Chill (Optional, but Recommended): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Grate Your Own Cheese: This is truly the most important tip. Pre-shredded cheese is coated with starches that prevent smooth melting and mixing. Grating fresh cheese makes all the difference in texture.
- Softened Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese will result in lumps. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
- Drain Pimentos Well: Excess liquid from the pimentos can make your pimento cheese watery. Press them lightly in a sieve or on paper towels.
- Adjust Mayo to Preference: Start with the smaller amount of mayonnaise and add more until you reach your preferred consistency. Some like it firmer, some like it creamier.
- Taste and Season: Different brands of cheese and mayo have varying salt levels. Always taste your pimento cheese before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings.
- Chill Time: While you can eat it right away, a short chill time (even 30 minutes) allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to fully absorb the mayonnaise, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Homemade Pimento Cheese is incredibly versatile!
- Classic Sandwich: Spread it generously between two slices of white bread for a traditional pimento cheese sandwich.
- Grilled Cheese: It makes the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich!
- Cracker & Veggie Dip: Serve it with an assortment of crackers, celery sticks, carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, or cucumber slices.
- Burger Topping: A dollop on top of a grilled burger is divine.
- Stuffed Celery: Spread on celery sticks for a quick, crunchy snack.
- Deviled Eggs: Use it as a filling for deviled eggs.
- Party Appetizer: It’s always a hit on a cheese board or as part of a dip spread alongside This Crockpot Nacho Dip Is The Reason I Never Have Leftovers or This Beer Cheese Dip Is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears In Minutes.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Homemade Pimento Cheese stores beautifully. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. The flavors will often deepen and become even better after a day or two in the fridge. Give it a good stir before serving, especially if it’s been chilled for a while. It’s best served at room temperature or slightly chilled, not straight from the coldest part of the fridge, as the flavors and texture will be more pronounced.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you loved the cheesy, savory goodness and ease of this Pimento Cheese, you’ll definitely want to try these other fantastic dip and appetizer recipes:
- For another incredibly cheesy, warm dip that’s always a hit, check out This Crockpot Nacho Dip Is The Reason I Never Have Leftovers.
- If you love classic flavors reimagined into a fun, hot dip, you’ll adore How I Turned A Classic Sandwich Into The Ultimate Cheesy Hot Dip.
- For an effortless way to impress guests with a simple appetizer, try This Baked Brie Appetizer Is My Favorite Effortless Way To Impress Guests.
- If you’re a fan of rich, savory cheese dips that disappear fast, my This Beer Cheese Dip Is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears In Minutes is a must-make.
- And for a fun, crispy, and addictive appetizer featuring chicken and cheese, check out Easy Cheese Stuffed Chicken Wontons With Ranch Golden Crunchy Addictive.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Pimento Cheese is more than just a recipe; it’s a staple, a comfort, and a true taste of Southern hospitality. It’s incredibly easy to make, lasts well in the fridge, and its versatility means you’ll find countless ways to enjoy it. Once you taste this fresh, creamy version, you might never go back to store-bought again!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy pimento cheese? Share your serving suggestions in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delicious and inspiring recipes.
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