Description

This classic Pimento Cheese Sandwich recipe combines creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors all blended into a smooth, spreadable cheese mixture. Quick to prepare and perfect for lunch or a light snack, these sandwiches use traditional ingredients like cream cheese, sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, mayonnaise, and jarred pimentos. The addition of cayenne pepper and garlic powder adds a subtle kick, while serving with olives and cornichons enhances the flavor experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

6 ounces (170 g) cream cheese, full-fat, softened to room temperature
1 cup (about 113 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup (about 113 g) Colby Jack cheese, shredded
1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise, full-fat recommended
3 tablespoons (45 g) chopped pimentos, jarred
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (omit for lower sodium diet)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Assembly

8 slices white bread, traditional sandwich bread
Olives and cornichons, for serving

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Instructions

Whip the Cream Cheese: Place softened cream cheese in a medium bowl. Using a hand mixer on medium speed, whip the cream cheese until it becomes light and fluffy. Room temperature cream cheese ensures smooth, easy whipping.
Combine Cheeses and Seasonings: Add shredded sharp cheddar, shredded Colby Jack, mayonnaise, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper to the whipped cream cheese. Continue mixing on medium speed until all ingredients are just combined. Avoid over-mixing to preserve texture.
Fold in Pimentos: Gently fold the chopped pimentos into the cheese mixture using a spatula or spoon, taking care to maintain the pimentos’ texture without breaking them down.
Prepare Bread Slices: Lay out four slices of white bread on a clean cutting board, which will make spreading and assembly neater and easier.
Spread Cheese Mixture: Evenly spread a generous layer of the pimento cheese mixture on each of the four bread slices. Use enough to make each bite flavorful without the filling running.
Assemble Sandwiches: Place the remaining four slices of bread on top of the prepared slices to form sandwiches. Using a sharp knife, cut each sandwich in half for easier serving and handling.

Notes

Using full-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise results in a richer, creamier sandwich.
For a lower sodium option, omit the kosher salt.
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier whipping and smooth texture.
The cayenne pepper adds mild heat, which can be adjusted or omitted based on personal taste.
Serve with olives and cornichons to complement the creamy, tangy pimento cheese flavor.
These sandwiches can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 day, but bread may soften over time.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Sandwiches
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American Southern