What is pimento cheese made of?

Pimento cheese is a creamy spread made primarily from shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimento peppers. Some recipes include cream cheese for extra richness, along with seasonings like salt, pepper, and sometimes garlic or onion powder. This versatile mixture can be used as a dip, sandwich filling, or topping for crackers and vegetables.

How spicy are pimento peppers in pimento cheese?

Pimento peppers used in pimento cheese are mild and slightly sweet, with little to no heat. They are much less spicy than jalapeños or other chili peppers, making the spread approachable for all palates. Their mild flavor adds a subtle tang without overpowering the creamy cheese.

Where can I buy pimento peppers to make pimento cheese?

Pimento peppers are typically found in well-stocked grocery stores near the roasted red peppers or pickled sections. They are often available jarred or canned. If fresh pimento peppers are hard to find, you can substitute roasted red peppers diced finely, which closely mimic the flavor and texture.

How long does homemade pimento cheese last in the refrigerator?

Homemade pimento cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 to 7 days. Make sure to check for any changes in smell or texture before use. For best flavor, bring it to room temperature before serving.

Can I use pimento cheese in recipes besides sandwiches?

Yes, pimento cheese is a versatile ingredient that works well as a dip for crackers and veggies, a topping for burgers or baked potatoes, and a filling for deviled eggs or stuffed mushrooms. You can also incorporate it into casseroles or spread it on toast for a quick snack.

Pimento Cheese Recipes With Classic Southern Flavor Tips

Name: Pimento Cheese
Prep time: 40 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: – 2 cups freshly grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese; – 8 ounces cream cheese cut into 1-inch cubes and softened; – 4 ounces well-drained pimento peppers (chopped if in strips) or about ½ cup chopped roasted red peppers as a substitute; – 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; – ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; – ¼ teaspoon onion powder; – ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional); – ½ a medium jalapeño pepper minced with ribs and seeds removed (about 1 tablespoon, optional); – freshly ground black pepper to taste; – salt to taste

Description

🧀 Experience the bold, creamy classic Southern flavor of pimento cheese that’s perfect for snacking or entertaining.
🌶️ This versatile cheese spread combines sharp cheddar and pimentos with a hint of spice for a crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

– 2 cups freshly grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese

– 8 ounces cream cheese cut into 1-inch cubes and softened

– 4 ounces well-drained pimento peppers (chopped if in strips) or about ½ cup chopped roasted red peppers as a substitute

– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

– ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

– ¼ teaspoon onion powder

– ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)

– ½ a medium jalapeño pepper minced with ribs and seeds removed (about 1 tablespoon, optional)

– freshly ground black pepper to taste

– salt to taste

Instructions

1-Combine all ingredients in a large bowl to start building that creamy texture.

2-Beat everything together with a mixer or a sturdy spoon until it’s well combined and lightly fluffy, which usually takes just a few minutes.

3-Adjust the seasoning as you like, adding more black pepper, salt, or cayenne for an extra kick, then mix again to blend it all in.

4-Taste and tweak if needed; this is where you make it your own.

5-Serve right away or pop it in the fridge for up to one week, remembering to let it sit out for about 30 minutes to soften before enjoying.

Notes

🧀 Use extra-sharp Cheddar cheese for pronounced flavor.
🌶️ Adjust cayenne and jalapeño amounts to control spiciness.
🥪 Let cheese spread soften at room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 120
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: Pimento Cheese,Classic Southern,Cheese Spread,Spicy Dip