Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese

Let’s talk about a Southern classic: Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese! This spread is an absolute favorite in my house, and once you try it, you’ll see why it’s such a staple at every gathering. Creamy, cheesy, with just the right amount of tang from the pimentos and a little kick of heat—it’s perfect for spreading on crackers, slathering on a sandwich, or even spooning straight from the bowl (I mean, it’s that good!). Trust me, this is one recipe that’ll have everyone asking for more.

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese

This recipe isn’t just about making something delicious; it’s about bringing people together around the table. Whether you’re serving it at a casual get-together, a family picnic, or enjoying it as a snack on its own, this pimento cheese is all about comfort, flavor, and a little nostalgia. Here’s why it’s a true crowd-pleaser:

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this pimento cheese is full of creamy, cheesy goodness with the tang of pimentos and a hint of spice.

Easy to Make

No complicated steps here—just a little shredding, stirring, and voilà! This spread comes together in minutes, making it perfect for last-minute parties or when you’re craving something tasty.

Versatile

You can use this pimento cheese in so many ways: spread it on toast, stuff it in a grilled cheese sandwich, serve it with chips, or enjoy it as a dip. It’s your go-to for elevating any meal.

Crowd-Pleasing

This pimento cheese is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s rich, savory, and just the right balance of creamy and zesty, making it perfect for parties, picnics, or even a simple afternoon snack.

Ingredients

Making Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese is as easy as gathering a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shredded Cheddar Cheese

The star of the show! Choose a sharp cheddar for a rich, tangy flavor that really stands out in the spread.

Mayonnaise

The creamy base that brings everything together. It’s what gives the pimento cheese its velvety, smooth texture.

Pimentos

These little peppers add just the right amount of tangy flavor and vibrant color to the spread. It’s not pimento cheese without them!

Cream Cheese

For a little extra creaminess and richness, cream cheese is the perfect addition to this pimento cheese. It makes the spread extra smooth.

Garlic Powder and Onion Powder

These seasonings give the pimento cheese a savory kick without overpowering the other flavors.

Salt and Pepper

A little salt and pepper to taste for seasoning. You can adjust based on your personal preference, but don’t skip this step!

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make this delicious spread? Here’s how to pull it all together:

Step 1: Shred the Cheese

Start by shredding your cheddar cheese if you’re not using pre-shredded. Freshly shredded cheese will give the best texture and flavor.

Step 2: Combine the Cream Cheese and Mayo

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend them together until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Shredded Cheese and Pimentos

Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped pimentos. Be sure to drain the pimentos before adding them to the mixture to avoid excess liquid.

Step 4: Season It

Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—more salt or pepper can be added for extra flavor.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, refrigerate your pimento cheese for at least an hour before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld together and allows the spread to firm up a bit.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Serve your Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese with crackers, fresh vegetables, or slather it on a sandwich. However you enjoy it, it’s bound to be a hit!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one tablespoon of pimento cheese:

• Calories: 60 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 150mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour (or more)
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

How to Serve Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese

This spread is super versatile, so get creative with how you serve it! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

On Crackers

The classic way to enjoy pimento cheese! Spread it generously on your favorite crackers for a simple and delicious snack.

As a Sandwich Spread

Slather it on bread for a quick and easy sandwich. It’s especially tasty on toasted bread with some crispy bacon!

As a Dip

Serve it as a dip alongside fresh veggies like celery, carrots, or cucumber. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra crunch while enjoying the creamy cheese spread.

On a Burger

For an extra indulgent treat, spread some pimento cheese on your burger for a cheesy twist.

On Grilled Cheese

Swap out regular cheese for pimento cheese in your grilled cheese sandwich. The melted, creamy texture is perfection!

Additional Tips

Customize the Cheese

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in your pimento cheese mix. A bit of Monterey Jack or a mild mozzarella can add a nice twist to the flavor.

Spice It Up

If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the spread a spicy kick.

Make It Ahead

Pimento cheese actually gets better with time, so feel free to make it a day or two ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Adjust the Consistency

If your pimento cheese is a little too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up to your preferred spreadable consistency.

Store Leftovers

Keep any leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It’s even better the next day when the flavors have had time to blend!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use low-fat mayo or cream cheese in this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can substitute low-fat mayo or cream cheese if you prefer a lighter version, but the texture may be slightly different.

Q2: Can I make this without cream cheese?
A2: Yes, you can skip the cream cheese, but the spread will be a little less creamy. You might want to add extra mayo to make up for the creaminess.

Q3: Can I add other ingredients to pimento cheese?
A3: Absolutely! Some people like to add chopped jalapeños, shredded chicken, or even a little bit of relish for extra flavor. Feel free to get creative!

Q4: Can I freeze pimento cheese?
A4: While pimento cheese freezes well, the texture may change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to a month.

Q5: Can I use store-bought shredded cheese?
A5: Yes, you can use store-bought shredded cheese, but freshly shredded cheese usually melts better and gives a smoother texture.

Q6: How long will pimento cheese keep in the fridge?
A6: Stored in an airtight container, pimento cheese will keep in the fridge for up to a week.

Q7: Can I use a food processor to make pimento cheese?
A7: Yes! A food processor can be used to shred the cheese and mix everything together quickly, saving you a bit of time.

Q8: Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time?
A8: Yes! In fact, it’s even better after it sits in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. The flavors have more time to develop and meld together.

Q9: What is the best way to serve pimento cheese at a party?
A9: Serve it with a variety of crackers, fresh veggies, and maybe some crostini. It’s also a great addition to a cheese board!

Q10: Can I make a healthier version of pimento cheese?
A10: You can substitute lower-fat mayo and cream cheese, or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist and added protein!

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese recipe is the epitome of Southern comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect addition to any snack or meal. Whether you’re spreading it on crackers, making sandwiches, or enjoying it as a dip, this pimento cheese is sure to be a hit. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious—what’s not to love?

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