There’s something undeniably comforting about a classic old-fashioned pimento cheese recipe. Whether you grew up enjoying this Southern staple or you’re discovering it for the first time, this creamy, tangy, and savory spread is a must-try. Made with sharp cheddar cheese, pimento peppers, and a rich blend of seasonings, it’s the perfect balance of bold flavors and smooth texture.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and comes together in just minutes! Spread it on crackers, slather it on a sandwich, or serve it as a dip at your next gathering—this homemade cheese spread is as versatile as it is delicious. Ready to bring a taste of the South into your kitchen? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Key Benefits of Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese
Why is this homemade pimento cheese recipe a must-try? Here are a few reasons you’ll love it:
✔ Rich, Creamy, and Flavor-Packed – The combination of sharp cheddar, tangy pimentos, and creamy mayo creates a perfectly balanced texture with bold, irresistible flavors.
✔ Quick and Easy to Make – With just a handful of ingredients and no cooking required, you can whip up this Southern classic in under 10 minutes.
✔ Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing – Whether you serve it as a dip, sandwich spread, or burger topping, this recipe is a hit at parties, picnics, and family gatherings.
✔ Customizable to Your Taste – Want a little spice? Add some cayenne or hot sauce. Prefer a smoother texture? Use a food processor. This pimento cheese spread is easy to adjust based on your preferences.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Pimento cheese stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep, last-minute snacks, or quick appetizers.
This classic Southern cheese spread is all about simplicity and flavor. Now, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this timeless favorite!
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese
To make this classic pimento cheese recipe, you’ll need simple, high-quality ingredients that come together for a creamy, flavorful spread. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (for the best texture and taste)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (Use any type of mayonnaise you have or want)
- 4 oz jar of diced pimentos, drained
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, for a subtle savory boost
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder, to enhance depth of flavor
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, for a touch of warmth and color
- Salt and black pepper to taste, to balance the flavors
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (adds umami richness)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (if you love extra heat)
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened (for a silkier, richer consistency)
Ingredient Tips:
✔ Always use freshly grated cheddar. Pre-shredded cheese includes anti-caking agents, which can alter its texture.
✔ Choose high-quality mayo. It’s the base of the spread, so a rich, tangy mayo makes all the difference.
✔ Adjust seasoning to taste. Start with a little and add more as needed to match your preference.
Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to how to make this homemade Southern pimento cheese in just a few easy steps!
How to Make Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese
Making homemade pimento cheese is incredibly simple and takes just a few minutes. Follow these easy steps to create a smooth, creamy, and flavorful spread that’s perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or dipping.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Soften the Cream Cheese
- Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes. This makes it easier to mix and creates a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Mix the Base Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and grated sharp cheddar cheese.
- Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to blend everything until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
- Add Flavor and Texture
- Stir in the diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the spread.
- Adjust for Taste and Consistency
- If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more mayonnaise for a smoother, spreadable texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—a little extra cayenne can add a spicy kick!
- Chill for Best Flavor
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the flavors to meld, making the pimento cheese even more delicious.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Give the mixture a final stir before serving. Spread it on sandwiches, serve with crackers or fresh veggies, or use it as a dip for a classic Southern appetizer.
This old-fashioned pimento cheese recipe is quick, easy, and full of bold, cheesy goodness. Next, let’s explore some expert tips and fun variations to make it even more exciting!
Pro Tips and Variations
Want to take your old-fashioned pimento cheese to the next level? These pro tips and variations will help you customize the flavor, texture, and overall experience of this beloved Southern classic.
Pro Tips for the Best Pimento Cheese
✔ Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating it yourself ensures a creamier consistency.
✔ Let it chill before serving – Allowing the pimento cheese to sit in the fridge for at least an hour helps the flavors meld together for a richer taste.
✔ Adjust the texture to your liking – If you prefer a chunkier spread, mix everything with a fork. For a smoother consistency, blend it in a food processor for a few seconds.
✔ Balance the seasoning – Taste as you go! If it feels too mild, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can bring it to life.
✔ Use high-quality mayo – The mayonnaise plays a key role in the flavor, so using a rich, tangy brand makes a big difference.
Tasty Variations to Try
🔹 Spicy Pimento Cheese – Add cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
🔹 Smoky Flavor Boost – Use smoked cheddar instead of sharp cheddar for a deeper, more complex taste.
🔹 Extra Creamy Version – Blend in softened cream cheese for a silkier, richer texture.
🔹 Herb-Infused Pimento Cheese – Mix in finely chopped fresh chives or parsley for a fresh twist.
No matter how you customize it, this homemade pimento cheese recipe is easy to tweak to your personal taste. Next, let’s explore some delicious ways to serve and enjoy this spread!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made a rich and creamy old-fashioned pimento cheese, it’s time to enjoy it! This Southern classic is incredibly versatile and can be served in so many delicious ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a hearty meal addition, here are some tasty serving ideas:
Classic and Simple
✔ With Crackers or Veggies – Serve pimento cheese as a dip with butter crackers, celery sticks, or sliced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.
✔ On Toast or Crostini – Spread it over warm toast or crispy crostini for a simple yet flavorful bite.
Hearty Sandwiches & Wraps
✔ Pimento Cheese Sandwich – Keep it traditional by spreading it between two slices of soft white bread. For extra flavor, add sliced tomatoes.
✔ Wrap it Up – Spread it inside a tortilla with fresh greens, turkey, or grilled chicken for a quick, satisfying lunch.
Warm & Melty Options
✔ Grilled Pimento Cheese – Take your grilled cheese sandwich to the next level by grilling it until golden brown and gooey.
✔ Pimento Cheese Quesadilla – Spread some inside a tortilla, fold it, and cook on a skillet for a deliciously melty snack.
Elevate Your Meals
✔ Burger Topping – Dollop it over a hot, juicy burger for a Southern twist.
✔ Stuffed Baked Potato – Mix it into a hot baked potato for a creamy, cheesy delight.
✔ With Eggs – Stir a spoonful into scrambled eggs or spread it onto a breakfast biscuit for an extra layer of flavor.
No matter how you enjoy it, this homemade pimento cheese recipe is bound to be a crowd-pleaser! Next, Now, let’s conclude with a few final thoughts.
Conclusion
Old-fashioned pimento cheese is more than just a simple spread it’s a true Southern classic that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. With its creamy texture, sharp cheddar bite, and the perfect hint of tangy pimentos, this homemade recipe is a must-try for cheese lovers. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, enjoying it as a snack, or using it to elevate your favorite dishes, this versatile and delicious recipe never disappoints.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste, make it extra creamy with a bit of mayo, or try a smoky version with paprika. However you choose to enjoy it, one thing is certain: once you taste homemade pimento cheese, you’ll never want store-bought again!
So grab your favorite crackers, toast up some bread, or melt it into a warm, cheesy delight because this old-fashioned pimento cheese recipe is here to stay!
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Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated (for the best texture and taste)
- ½ cup mayonnaise Use any type of mayonnaise you have or want
- 4 oz jar of diced pimentos drained
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder for a subtle savory boost
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder to enhance depth of flavor
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for a touch of warmth and color
- Salt and black pepper to taste to balance the flavors
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce for a spicy kick
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce adds umami richness
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper if you love extra heat
- ¼ cup cream cheese softened (for a silkier, richer consistency)
Instructions
Soften the Cream Cheese
- o Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes. This makes it easier to mix and creates a smooth, lump-free consistency.
Mix the Base Ingredients
- o In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and grated sharp cheddar cheese.
- o Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to blend everything until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
Add Flavor and Texture
- o Stir in the diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- o Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the spread.
Adjust for Taste and Consistency
- o If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more mayonnaise for a smoother, spreadable texture.
- o Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—a little extra cayenne can add a spicy kick!
Chill for Best Flavor
- o Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the flavors to meld, making the pimento cheese even more delicious.
Serve and Enjoy
- o Give the mixture a final stir before serving. Spread it on sandwiches, serve with crackers or fresh veggies, or use it as a dip for a classic Southern appetizer.
Notes
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Calcium: 10%
- Iron: 2%
FAQs
1. What is pimento cheese made of?
Traditional pimento cheese is made with sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, and a few seasonings. Some variations include cream cheese for extra creaminess or spices like paprika and cayenne for a little kick.
2. How long does homemade pimento cheese last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade pimento cheese typically lasts up to one week. Be sure to stir it before serving, as some separation may occur.
3. Can I freeze pimento cheese?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become grainy once thawed. For the best quality, enjoy it fresh!
4. What are some creative ways to use pimento cheese?
Besides being a delicious dip for crackers and veggies, try using it as:
A spread for sandwiches and burgers
A filling for grilled cheese
A topping for baked potatoes
A base for creamy macaroni and cheese
5. Can I make this recipe without mayonnaise?
Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version while maintaining creaminess.
6. Is pimento cheese spicy?
Not typically, but you can add hot sauce, or cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier version.