Dessert

Creamy Spicy Pimento Cheese Recipe

ByElena Hart January 15, 2026January 15, 2026

Introduction

Pimento cheese is a creamy, tangy Southern classic that’s perfect as a spread, dip, or sandwich filling. Made with sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and sweet pimentos, this versatile recipe brings a flavorful punch with just the right amount of spice.

A white scalloped bowl in the center filled with a creamy orange cheese dip mixed with small red pepper pieces, with a red pepper slice dipped into it. Surrounding the bowl are three layers of snacks: bright green celery sticks standing upright at the back, shiny red pepper strips fanned out on the right side, and a layer of rectangular multigrain crackers with visible seeds placed neatly at the front. All are arranged on a wooden board set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups freshly grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
8 ounces cream cheese, cut into 1″ cubes and softened at room temperature

4 ounces pimento peppers, well drained and chopped if in strips
2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Duke’s is traditional but Sir Kensington’s also works)

¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (decrease or omit if sensitive to spice)
½ medium jalapeño pepper, ribs and seeds removed, minced (about 1 tablespoon; omit if sensitive to spice)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Salt, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the grated cheddar, cubed cream cheese, pimento peppers, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, jalapeño (if using), and several twists of freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2: Beat the mixture using a hand mixer, stand mixer, or by hand with a wooden spoon or spatula until thoroughly combined and smooth.

Step 3: Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning by adding more black pepper or salt as desired. For extra heat, add another pinch of cayenne pepper and blend again.
Step 4: Transfer the pimento cheese to a serving bowl. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If chilled, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother texture, use a food processor to blend the ingredients instead of beating by hand.

Adjust the heat by omitting jalapeño and cayenne for a milder spread, or add more for extra spice.
Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter version.
Add finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added freshness.

Use smoked cheddar for a richer, smoky flavor twist.

Storage

Store pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving chilled pimento cheese, let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften. It can be spread on crackers, sandwiches, or used as a dip straight from the fridge once softened.

How to Serve

A wooden board on a white marbled surface holds a white scalloped bowl full of light orange creamy dip with red specks. Surrounding the bowl are bright green celery sticks on the top left, striking red bell pepper strips on the right, and rectangular multigrain crackers with a rough texture placed at the bottom of the board. To the top right, a white scalloped plate contains a cracker topped with the same dip, along with a piece of celery and a red bell pepper strip. A white cloth with a blue stripe is on the right side of the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time?

Yes, pimento cheese can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

What can I serve with pimento cheese?

Pimento cheese is delicious with crackers, celery sticks, fresh vegetables, or as a filling for sandwiches and burgers. It also works well as a topping for grilled meats or baked potatoes.