Old-Fashioned Southern Pimento Cheese

This Old-Fashioned Southern Pimento Cheese is a simple, creamy spread that brings a comforting touch to any snack or meal. It’s perfect for slipping between slices of bread, dolloping on crackers, or adding a flavorful lift to fresh vegetables. This rich blend of sharp cheddar, sweet pimentos, and a subtle kick from spices is a Southern staple that’s quick and satisfying to make at home.

I first whipped this up on a whim for a family gathering and it immediately became everyone's favorite finger food. The blend of sharp cheese and gentle spice hits every craving just right.

Ingredients

• Sharp cheddar cheese: finely shredded adds the signature bold cheese flavor and creamy texture choose a block cheese for better melt and freshness
• Pimentos: bring sweet, tangy notes and a pop of color look for vibrant red pimentos in a jar and drain them well to avoid excess moisture
• Cream cheese: softened creates smoothness and creaminess make sure it is at room temperature to blend easily
• Mayonnaise: balances the richness and binds ingredients use a high-quality mayo for the best flavor
• Garlic powder and onion powder: add savory depth fresh powders ensure brighter, more aromatic notes
• Paprika: gives warm earthiness and a subtle smoky touch opt for sweet paprika for milder flavor or smoked if you prefer a smoky hint
• Pepper blend: adds a gentle heat and complexity freshly ground varieties sharpen the spice
• Cayenne pepper: provides a kick of heat adjust the amount to match your spice tolerance
• Old Bay seasoning: optional but adds a unique herbal and slightly spicy layer known from Southern coastal cuisine

Instructions

Build the Cheese Base:

Grate eight ounces of sharp cheddar cheese finely this helps everything mix smoothly and ensures you get cheese in every bite

Prepare the Pimentos and Cream Cheese:

Drain the pimentos thoroughly so the spread is not watery soften cream cheese to room temperature so it blends without lumps

Combine Ingredients:

In a mixing bowl place the shredded cheddar pimentos softened cream cheese and half a cup of mayonnaise this creates the creamy body of the spread

Season the mixture:

Add one teaspoon each of garlic powder onion powder paprika and pepper blend add one quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper and if using one teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning these spices bring the classic Southern flavor profile

Mix until creamy:

Stir everything thoroughly until the cheese is fully coated by the mayo and cream cheese and the spices are evenly distributed you can also pulse in a food processor for a smoother consistency

Chill and Serve:

Place the mixture in an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour this lets the flavors meld together nicely and firms the texture for spreading

I always love the bright red pimentos that peek through the golden cheese mixture they remind me of Sunday afternoons at my grandparents where this spread was a constant on the table ready for sandwiches or simply crack with crackers. The warmth from the paprika and cayenne makes it so inviting

Storage Tips

Store your pimento cheese in a sealed container in the fridge to keep it fresh and creamy the flavors deepen over a couple of days I learned that letting it rest is worth the wait If it starts to dry out slightly just stir in a little more mayonnaise or cream cheese before serving again

Ingredient Swaps

For a twist use smoked gouda instead of cheddar for a distinct smoky depth Try Greek yogurt in place of half the mayonnaise for a tangier lighter spread If you want it spicier swap out cayenne for chipotle powder or add finely chopped jalapenos to the mix

Serving Ideas

Pimento cheese makes a wonderful filling for sandwiches layered with crisp lettuce and tomato for a classic lunch treat Use as a dip for fresh vegetable sticks like celery carrots or bell peppers Top grilled burgers or hot dogs with a generous scoop for a Southern inspired flavor boost

This recipe is a little piece of the South that you can make anytime. Its creamy tang and gentle heat have made it a go to in my kitchen for quick snacks and crowd-pleasing spreads.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What cheeses are used in this spread?

Sharp cheddar and cream cheese are combined to create a creamy, tangy base with plenty of flavor.

→ How can I adjust the spiciness?

Cayenne pepper controls heat level; adding more will increase spice, while reducing or omitting it keeps the flavor mild.

→ Can this be made smoother in texture?

Yes, using a food processor blends the ingredients smoothly for an even creamier consistency.

→ What are good serving ideas?

Enjoy chilled with crackers, celery sticks, or as a flavorful filling in sandwiches.

→ How long does this spread keep refrigerated?

Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator.