This classic Southern pimento cheese spread is perfect for any party or holiday gathering. A Southern staple, it's commonly served with crostini, crackers, or veggies, and makes a delicious filling for sandwiches. With its creamy blend of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and pimento peppers, it's a flavorful addition to any spread!
To be honest, growing up I was not a fan of pimento cheese. The color was off-putting to me, so I never really gave it a chance, or maybe it was because I had only tried the store-bought kind, which is nowhere near as good as pimento cheese made from scratch.
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As an adult, I absolutely love it! I have even converted my husband; he can't get enough of it. Pimento peppers have such a unique flavor that really makes this cheese spread special. They pack so much flavor that there is no need to add in many other complicated ingredients.
I love putting jalapeños or even red pepper flakes in my pimento cheese to make it a little spicy, though this is completely optional. If you are a fan of jalapeños, I highly recommend adding them! I often remove the seeds and membrane from the jalapeños so that the cheese spread isn't too hot, especially when serving it to my kids. When Nadapenos (heatless jalapeños) are producing in my garden, I love using those instead!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Takes just 15 minutes to whip up from scratch with standard pantry staples.
- Better Than Store-Bought: Way creamier and fresher than anything you can buy in a tub at the store.
- Super Versatile: Serve it as a dip, a sandwich spread, or even melted on top of a burger!
If you are putting together an appetizer table, this recipe pairs wonderfully with my Jalapeño Popper Dip, Ham and Cheese Pinwheels, or Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sliders.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese forms the rich, creamy base of this dip. Make sure it is completely softened to room temperature so it creams smoothly.
- Mayonnaise: Gives the spread that signature traditional texture and tang.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is one of the main stars here! While some prefer sharp cheddar, I opt for medium cheddar. Feel free to use sharp, extra sharp, or white cheddar based on your preference. For best results, shred it fresh from the block!
- Pimento Peppers: 1 (4-ounce) jar of diced pimentos, thoroughly drained. Roasted red bell peppers can be substituted if needed.
- Jalapeño (Optional): Adds a nice fresh crunch and subtle heat.
See the recipe card below for the full list of ingredients and exact measurements.
How To Make Southern Pimento Cheese
Making pimento cheese from scratch takes just 15 minutes! Follow along with these step-by-step photos for a visual guide:
- Beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth.
- Add the mayo and mix until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the shredded cheese, peppers & seasonings until well combined.
- Serve immediately for a soft, creamy spread, or chill in the refrigerator to firm up! Enjoy!
See the recipe card below for the full recipe.
👉 Sky's Tips for Serving & Storing
- For a Soft Spread: Serve immediately at room temperature while the cream cheese is soft for easy spreading on crackers or bread.
- For a Stiffer Spread or Cheese Ball: Refrigerate for 45 minutes to 1 hour to firm up. You can also chill it longer and roll it into a cheese ball coated in chopped toasted pecans!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with crackers, fresh veggie sticks, homemade crostini, potato chips, or spread it onto white bread (try this homemade sandwich bread) for a classic Southern pimento cheese sandwich. It's also incredible melted over my Bacon Jalapeño Cheeseburgers!
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Give it a quick stir before serving.
I hope you get a chance to try this Pimento Cheese soon!
-Sky🩷
If you tried this Classic Southern Pimento Cheese recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a 🌟star rating and let me know how it went in the comment section below!
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📖 Recipe
The Best Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- ½ cup mayo
- 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1-2 jalapeños, small diced seeds and membrane removed
- 1 (4 ounce) jar pimentos drained
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper or to taste
- 1 pinch granulated garlic
- 1 dash worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until completely smooth. Add the mayo and beat until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeño, and drained pimentos.
- Add the salt, pepper, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings or add extra jalapeño if desired.
- Serve immediately for a smooth, soft spread, or chill in the refrigerator if you prefer a firmer texture or want to shape it into a cheese ball. Enjoy!
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