Description
This classic Southern Pimento Cheese Spread is a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy cheese spread perfect for crackers, sandwiches, and appetizers. Made with sharp cheddar, cream cheese, diced pimentos, and a blend of spices, it’s an easy-to-make spread that can be prepared in just minutes and chilled to meld the flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Mix-ins
- 4 oz diced pimentos, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Base: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Mix them together until well blended and creamy.
- Add Pimentos and Mayo: Stir in the diced pimentos and mayonnaise to the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution of ingredients throughout the spread.
- Season the Spread: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all seasonings evenly.
- Chill the Spread: Cover the mixture with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the spread to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Serve chilled as a dip with crackers, or use as a sandwich filling or topping for vegetables.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
- The cayenne pepper can be adjusted or omitted depending on your preferred spice level.
- For a smoother spread, you can pulse the mixture briefly in a food processor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Try adding chopped green onions or a dash of smoked paprika for a flavor variation.
