Description
This Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese recipe is a classic Southern appetizer featuring sharp cheddar cheese blended with creamy mayonnaise and diced pimentos, perfectly seasoned with garlic and onion powders and a hint of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. It’s a creamy, flavorful spread ideal for serving with crackers, sandwiches, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 ounces diced pimentos (drained)
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, add the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and drained diced pimentos.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if using, and add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
- Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the pimento cheese chilled as a spread on crackers, in sandwiches, or use as a dip for fresh vegetables.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best texture and flavor rather than pre-shredded cheese.
- For a milder or creamier variation, substitute part of the cheddar with Monterey Jack or cream cheese.
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spiciness.
- Make ahead and refrigerate to develop the flavors overnight for even better taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern
