Try this scrumptious Southern Pimento Cheese recipe
Welcome to my southern-style kitchen, where the aroma of homemade deliciousness is always wafting in the air. As a chef, I specialize in crafting dishes that evoke feelings of comfort and warmth, just like the classic southern pimento cheese recipe I’m about to share with you. If you’re a fan of creamy cheese spreads, then this recipe is going to knock your socks off!
There’s nothing quite like the taste of pimiento cheese spread, the quintessential favorite in Southern cuisine. As a staple appetizer, this cheesy delight graces tables at family reunions or potlucks regularly. This rich and creamy spread is made of shredded cheddar and Monterey jack cheese mixed with pimiento peppers for a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with crackers or sliced baguettes.
While many grocery stores sell mass-produced versions of this hearty snack, there’s something magical about making it from scratch at home. The best part is that it takes no time to whip up once you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go.
So grab your apron and let’s get started on this classic southern pimento cheese recipe that will have you coming back for seconds…and thirds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you in the mood for a classic Southern dish that is sure to leave you feeling comforted and fulfilled? Look no further than this delicious Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe.
One of the reasons you’ll love this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re in the mood for a sandwich or a dip, this pimento cheese recipe delivers every time. You can enjoy it as a creamy spread on your favorite bread or crackers, or add it as an ingredient in your favorite dishes. The possibilities are endless with this timeless Southern staple.
Not only is this recipe versatile, but it’s also incredibly flavorful. The blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise creates a rich and cheesy base that is kicked up a notch with the addition of pimentos, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and scallions. Every bite bursts with bold flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Additionally, this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal prep time. With just eight simple steps, you’ll have a homemade pimento cheese spread or dip ready to impress your family and friends. And trust me; they’ll be coming back for seconds!
In conclusion, whether you’re serving it as a snack or a meal, this Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe will satisfy all of your cravings while leaving you wanting more. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try today and experience the classic Southern taste in every bite!
Ingredient List
Cheese mixture:
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Pimento mixture:
- 1 (4 oz) jar diced pimentos, drained
- 2 thinly sliced scallions
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Keep in mind that you can always adjust the ingredients to fit your personal taste preferences.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to put them together and make our delicious Southern Pimento Cheese!
Step 1: Shred the cheeses
To start, grab a block of sharp cheddar cheese, and shred it using a box grater or a food processor. You’ll need about 2 cups of shredded cheese for this recipe.
Next up, take an 8-ounce block of cream cheese from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for around 15-20 minutes. Once softened, cut it into small chunks.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer to blend them together until smooth and creamy.
Now add in 1/4 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Mix well.
Finally, fold in a jar of diced pimentos (drained) with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the mix. You can skip this step if you prefer your pimento cheese without pimentos.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate your homemade Southern Pimento Cheese for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
To serve, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before spreading on crackers, sandwiches, or using as a dip.
Enjoy this classic Southern Cheese recipe with family and loved ones!
Yields: About 3 cups of Southern Pimento Cheese spread
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking for ways to personalize this Southern Pimento Cheese recipe? The good news is that this recipe is very adjustable and there are several substitutions and variations you can make to suit your taste.
First, let’s talk about the cheese. While we used a mixture of sharp cheddar, Monterey jack, and cream cheese in our recipe, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or ratios. You can use exclusively sharp cheddar or add in some extra-sharp cheddar for a more pungent flavor. You could also swap out the Monterey jack for another mild, creamy cheese like gouda or provolone.
If you don’t have pimentos on hand or don’t care for their flavor, you could try using roasted red peppers instead. Alternatively, you could leave out the peppers entirely for a more classic Southern cheese spread.
For a spicier version of this recipe, try adding in some diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers. A pinch of cayenne pepper is also a great way to kick up the heat a notch.
Want to make this Southern Pimento Cheese even creamier? Add in an extra 1/4 cup of mayonnaise or replace some of the shredded cheese with a little more cream cheese.
Lastly, feel free to put your own twist on how you serve this delicious spread. It’s great as a sandwich filling or spread on crackers as an appetizer. Try using it as a dip for fresh veggies or potato chips at your next get-together.
With these substitutions and variations, the possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this classic Southern Pimento Cheese recipe.
Serving and Pairing
Southern pimento cheese is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some suggestions for serving and pairing this classic southern favorite.
First, the obvious: serve it as a sandwich spread. Whether you’re making a classic pimento cheese sandwich or getting creative with additions like bacon or avocado, this spread is always a crowd-pleaser.
But it doesn’t stop there. Pimento cheese can also be used as a dip for chips or crackers. The creamy richness of the cheese pairs perfectly with salty snacks.
If you’re looking for a party appetizer, try stuffing cherry tomatoes with pimento cheese for an easy and delicious bite-sized snack. You can also use it as a filling for deviled eggs, adding an extra layer of flavor to this classic dish.
When it comes to pairings, there are many options. If you’re enjoying pimento cheese on a sandwich, pair it with Southern classics like fried chicken or collard greens. When using it as a dip, try pairing it with fresh vegetables or even pickled okra.
For drinks, pair pimento cheese with cold beverages like lemonade or sweet tea. For something stronger, try pairing it with bourbon or beer.
Overall, the possibilities are endless when it comes to enjoying Southern pimento cheese. Let your creativity lead the way and experiment until you find your perfect combination!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about this classic Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe is that it can easily be made ahead of time, stored and reheated as needed. This is especially useful when you want to prepare a snack or appetizer in advance for a party, picnic or family get-together.
If you plan to make this recipe ahead of time, it’s important to store it properly. I highly recommend using an air-tight container or a resealable plastic bag to keep the pimento cheese fresh for a longer period. When storing the pimento cheese in the refrigerator, make sure it’s kept at a temperature of 40°F or lower.
To reheat, simply take the container or bag out of the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes and then microwave it on low heat for 30 seconds – 1 minute. Be sure to stir the cheese after reheating to ensure that it’s evenly heated throughout.
If you have leftover Southern Pimento Cheese Spread, there are many ways you can use it up. One classic way is to make a mouth-watering pimento cheese sandwich on your favorite bread with crispy bacon and sliced tomatoes. You can also use it as a dip for vegetables or crackers or spread it on top of grilled chicken or fish.
Storing the pimento cheese in the freezer is also an option but be sure to store it in a resealable freezer-safe bag and label it with the date of preparation. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Overall, this recipe is perfect for making ahead of time and storing for future use. So go ahead and whip up a batch even if you don’t need it right away because who knows when you might crave some classic Southern Pimento Cheese Spread!
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve the perfect Southern Pimento Cheese every time, you need more than just following the recipe. Here are some helpful tips and recommendations that I’ve learned after years of making and perfecting this classic dish.
First off, make sure all your cheeses are at room temperature before mixing them with other ingredients. This tip helps to prevent lumps and makes it easier to mix the cheese with the rest of the ingredients. You can leave the cheeses out on the counter for about 30 minutes to an hour before starting to cook.
Another helpful tip is to use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded ones. Pre-shredded cheeses are coated with anti-caking agents that prevent them from sticking together, which can result in a drier and less flavorful cheese. Shred your own cheese by hand or by using a food processor for best results.
When combining the ingredients, mix thoroughly but do not overwork the mixture as this can result in a gummy texture. You want your pimento cheese to be smooth and creamy without being too dense.
Finally, if you want to add a little bit of extra heat to your pimento cheese, feel free to sprinkle some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the mixture. You can also spice things up by adding diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
Follow these simple tips, and you’ll have a delicious Southern Pimento Cheese every time!
FAQ
Before you start making this classic Southern Pimento Cheese recipe, read through these frequently asked questions to get answers to common concerns and clarifications on the instructions. We want your pimento cheese to be the best it can be, so don’t hesitate to check out these tips and tricks before starting your cooking process.
What is pimento cheese called in the South?
Pimento cheese is a beloved dish in the South that has been around for over 50 years. Southerners have warm memories of it being served at church gatherings by their dear aunts, while people in the North may not even know what it is. It’s also known by endearing names such as “Carolina caviar” and “Southern pate.”
How to make Paula Deen’s pimento cheese?
This recipe calls for a softened 3-ounce block of cream cheese, mixed with one cup of extra-sharp cheddar cheese and one cup of Monterey Jack cheese, all coarsely grated. Additionally, half a cup of mayonnaise is added, along with a hint of garlic powder, three tablespoons of minced sweet pickled red or cherry peppers (also known as pimentos), and a teaspoon of grated onion.
How do you make pimento cheese Trisha Yearwood?
Let’s put those drained pimientos to good use by blending them up until they’re smooth as silk. Mix the pureed pimientos with some creamy and delectable cheese using an electric mixer until there are no lumps in sight. Add in some tangy mayonnaise and beat until everything is combined. Don’t spread it just yet! First, allow the mixture to cool down to room temperature, and then slather it onto some soft slices of white sandwich bread.
Why is pimento cheese popular in the South?
This dish gained popularity in Southern cuisine due to its ability to withstand room temperature, making it a convenient meal for textile workers’ lunchboxes. Additionally, tea rooms favored this item as a sandwich option.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Southern Pimento Cheese recipe is a classic and a delicious addition to any meal or occasion. Whether you use it as a sandwich spread or dip, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds with its rich and tangy flavors. And the best part? It is incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
So, what are you waiting for? Try out this recipe today and see how it transforms your mealtime experience. Not only will you enjoy the mouthwatering taste of this classic Southern dish, but your friends and family will be impressed by your culinary skills.
Remember, the key to a perfect Pimento Cheese recipe is using high-quality ingredients and following the directions precisely. Use fresh cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and diced pimentos for the best possible flavor. And don’t forget to add a little bit of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
So go ahead and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed! And when people ask you what the secret to your delicious Pimento Cheese recipe is, just smile knowingly and say “Southern charm.” Bon appétit!
Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
- 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
- 3/4 cup pimiento, chopped and drained
- 1/2 cup scallion, chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons sriracha hot sauce
Instructions
- In a mixer, whip the softened cream cheese, making sure to scrape the sides of the bowl, adding the shredded cheeses and mayo next, whip until well combined.
- After the cheese and mayo mixture is combined, stir in the rest of the ingredients till well blended, making sure not to over whip.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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