Name: Best Pimento Cheese Recipe: A Creamy & Spicy Southern Classic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 ½ cups shredded extra sharp white cheddar cheese; 1 cup diced pimentos; 1-2 diced jalapeños (adjust for spice level); ½ cup mayonnaise; ¾ teaspoon vinegar-based hot sauce (optional); ½ teaspoon celery salt; ¼ teaspoon white pepper; ⅛ teaspoon salt

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Few things are as comforting and delicious as a classic pimento cheese spread. Whether you enjoy it as a dip, a sandwich filling, or a topping for burgers, this creamy and slightly spicy mixture is a Southern favorite that has won over hearts everywhere. The Best Pimento Cheese Recipe blends sharp cheddar, creamy mayonnaise, tangy pimentos, and a touch of heat for a spread that’s savory, rich, and utterly addictive.

If you’ve ever tried store-bought pimento cheese and thought it lacked flavor or freshness, this homemade version is about to change your mind. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a cheesy, zesty masterpiece in minutes. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make the ultimate homemade pimento cheese!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold & Creamy – A perfect balance of sharp cheddar and smooth mayonnaise.
Slightly Spicy – The combination of pimentos and jalapeños adds a flavorful kick.
Easy to Make – Takes less than 10 minutes to mix together.
Versatile – Use it as a dip, a spread, or even a topping for burgers and baked potatoes.
Better Than Store-Bought – No preservatives, just fresh, real ingredients.

Ingredients for the Best Pimento Cheese Recipe

Here’s everything you need to make this cheesy Southern classic.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded	2 ½ cups
Extra sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded	1 ½ cups
Diced pimentos	1 cup
Diced jalapeños	1-2
Mayonnaise	½ cup
Vinegar-based hot sauce (optional)	¾ tsp
Celery salt	½ tsp
White pepper	¼ tsp
Salt	⅛ tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Shred the cheese – Freshly shredded cheese melts and blends better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
Dice the jalapeños – Remove the seeds if you want a milder spice level.

2. Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cheddar cheeses, pimentos, and diced jalapeños.

3. Add the Creamy Ingredients

Stir in the mayonnaise, making sure it coats the cheese evenly.

4. Season for Flavor

Add celery salt, white pepper, and salt to enhance the flavor.
If using, mix in vinegar-based hot sauce for an extra kick.

5. Blend & Chill

Stir until everything is well combined.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Pro Tips for the Best Pimento Cheese

1. Use High-Quality Cheese

Always opt for block cheese and shred it yourself—it’s creamier and melts better than pre-shredded cheese.

2. Adjust the Spice Level

For milder cheese spread: Use one jalapeño or omit it altogether.
For extra heat: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or extra hot sauce.

3. Experiment with Textures

For a chunkier spread: Mix everything by hand.
For a smooth, dip-like consistency: Blend in a food processor.

4. Let It Rest

Refrigerating for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

How to Use Pimento Cheese

Pimento cheese isn’t just a spread—it’s a multi-purpose flavor booster! Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it:

Classic Sandwich – Spread it between two slices of soft white bread.
Dip for Crackers & Veggies – Serve with celery sticks, carrots, or toasted baguette slices.
Burger or Hot Dog Topping – Melt it over grilled meats for a cheesy twist.
Stuffed Jalapeños – Fill fresh jalapeño halves with pimento cheese and bake until bubbly.
Baked Potato Filling – Mix it into a hot baked potato for a creamy finish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180
Carbohydrates	2g
Protein	7g
Fat	15g
Sugar	1g
Sodium	220mg

Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and may vary based on portion sizes and ingredient brands.

Variations & Substitutes

1. Cream Cheese Pimento Spread

Replace half the mayonnaise with cream cheese for a thicker, richer texture.

2. Smoky Pimento Cheese

Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.

3. Keto & Low-Carb Version

Use full-fat mayonnaise and reduce the pimentos to cut down on carbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does pimento cheese last?

Homemade pimento cheese stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 7 days when stored in an airtight container.

2. Can I freeze pimento cheese?

Freezing is not recommended since the texture may change when thawed.

3. What’s the best cheese for pimento cheese?

Sharp cheddar works best, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for different flavors.

4. How can I make it healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version with extra protein.

5. Can I make pimento cheese without mayonnaise?

Yes! Substitute mayonnaise with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or cream cheese for a different texture.

6. Is pimento cheese gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels for cross-contamination if needed.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

The Best Pimento Cheese Recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also creamy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a dip, spread, or topping, this homemade version is far better than store-bought and packed with bold, cheesy goodness.