Creamy Spicy Pimento Cheese Recipe
This classic Southern Pimento Cheese spread combines sharp cheddar, creamy cream cheese, and tangy pimento peppers with a hint of spice from cayenne and jalapeño. It’s a versatile, creamy, and flavorful cheese spread perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a party dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups (serves 6-8 as a spread) 1x
- Category: Spread
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 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
Seasonings & Add-ins
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Duke’s or Sir Kensington’s recommended)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ medium jalapeño pepper, ribs and seeds removed, minced (about 1 tablespoon; optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add the grated cheddar, cream cheese cubes, drained pimento peppers, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, minced jalapeño (if using), and several twists of freshly ground black pepper. Mix the base components thoroughly.
- Mix Thoroughly: Using a hand mixer, stand mixer, or by hand with a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula, beat the mixture until all ingredients are well combined and the texture is smooth and creamy.
- Season to Taste: Taste your pimento cheese and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more black pepper, a pinch or two of salt, or an extra pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat. Blend again until flavors are evenly distributed.
- Serve or Chill: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. Serve immediately or cover and chill in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Note that pimento cheese will firm up when chilled; let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften.
Notes
- Softened cream cheese will blend more easily for a smooth texture.
- Pimento peppers can usually be found jarred in the condiment aisle; ensure they are well drained to avoid watery cheese spread.
- Adjust the heat level by omitting jalapeño or cayenne pepper for milder flavor.
- Pimento cheese thickens when refrigerated—allow it to come to room temperature prior to serving for the best texture.
Keywords: pimento cheese, cheese spread, Southern recipe, appetizer, creamy cheese dip
Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/creamy-spicy-pimento-cheese-recipe/
