Description
Listen here, Pimento Cheese is an iconic Southern snack food and appetizer that’s so flavorful and delicious, y’all. This homemade pimento cheese recipe features classic elements like sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and diced pimientos. Cream cheese adds a delightful tanginess and Cajun spice gives this signature cheese spread some oomph. Serve up this Southern favorite for any occasion from fancy events to informal gatherings. Enjoy as a spread or with crackers and/or vegetables!
Ingredients
- 8-ounces block-style cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup mayonnaise, preferably Duke’s
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimientos, liquid drained
- 1 small jalapeño, membranes removed & finely diced
- ½ – 1 teaspoon Creole Cajun Seasoning– homemade or store-bought
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
- Pinch of granulated sugar
- 8-ounces sharp cheddar cheese, fresh-grated on large holes of a box grater
Instructions
- In a large bowl, stir the softened cream cheese with a stiff whisk until smooth. Then add the mayonnaise and continue stirring until both ingredients are fully blended into a well-combined consistency.
- Add the pimientos, jalapeño, Creole Cajun seasoning- to taste, smoked paprika, white pepper, and sugar and stir to combine.
- Fold in the freshly grated cheddar and use a rubber spatula to combine and distribute the cheese evenly until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, the cheddar cheese should remain in its coarse pieces.
- Serve this fresh pimento cheese with crackers of choice (we love buttery Ritz crackers & Club crackers with this!), vegetables, or spread on sandwiches/toast, as desired! Enjoy!
- Storing pimento cheese: Transfer the pimento cheese into an airtight container with a lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Alternatively, you can freeze, where it will last for up to 3 months.
Notes
- Please read blog post in its entirety for more tips + tricks.