Creamy Classic Pimento Cheese Spread - A Southern Favorite You’ll Make Again and Again
Pimento cheese is one of those simple pleasures that never goes out of style. It’s creamy, tangy, a little peppery, and perfect for everything from sandwiches to party platters. If you’ve only tried the store-bought kind, this homemade version will change your mind.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (about 2 cups)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise (use a full-fat, good-quality brand)
- 1 (4-ounce) jar pimentos, drained and finely diced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or dill pickle juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8–1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the cheese. Grate the cheddar on the large holes of a box grater. Avoid pre-shredded cheese—it’s coated with anti-caking agents that affect texture and flavor.
- Mix the base. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with a spoon until smooth. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon, and vinegar or pickle juice. Stir until fully combined and creamy.
- Season it up. Add garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and smoked paprika. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Fold in the cheese and pimentos. Add the grated cheddar and the diced pimentos. Fold gently until the mixture is uniform. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
- Chill for flavor. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the spread thicken to the perfect consistency.
- Serve. Stir once more, then spread on crackers, toast, or soft white bread for sandwiches. Garnish with a pinch of paprika or chives if you like.