Southern Comfort Food: Pimiento Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Y’all, get ready to experience a southern classic that always hits the spot – pimiento cheese sandwiches! As a chef specializing in Southern-style cuisine, I can’t wait to share my take on this classic recipe with you. If you’re not familiar with pimiento cheese, it’s a creamy spread that’s made with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pimientos and mayonnaise. But my version takes it up a notch with the addition of mozzarella cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and cream cheese for an extra tangy kick.
If you’ve ever traveled to the South, then you know that pimiento cheese is a staple at any summer potluck or picnic. You’ll find it served as a sandwich spread or used as a dip for crackers or veggies. Every family recipe has its own unique twist, and that’s what makes it such a beloved comfort food.
But even if you’ve never tried pimiento cheese before, this recipe is perfect for anyone who loves flavorful and easy-to-make sandwiches that are packed with savory goodness. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you’ll be able to whip up your very own batch of Southern-style pimiento cheese spreads at home.
So grab some bread, slice up some ham or turkey, and get ready to savor the taste of the South with these deliciously cheesy sandwiches!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ah, the beauty and nostalgia of classic southern cuisine. There’s something so comforting about a dish that seems to take you back in time and make you feel like you’re savoring a piece of history. And that’s why this Southern Style Pimiento Cheese Sandwich recipe is not one to miss.
If you’re a fan of a good sandwich, and let’s be real, who isn’t? Then you will love the explosion of flavors that happens when you take a bite into this sandwich. First, you get the smooth and creamy texture of the pimento cheese spread exploding with rich cheese flavor – a blend of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, creamy monterey jack cheese, diced pimientos, and perfectly mixed spices. And then comes the cracked black pepper giving it that subtle kick that keeps your taste buds wanting more. It’s no wonder why it’s hailed as the “masters” pimento cheese by many.
This sandwich is perfect for any occasion – from quick lunches on-the-go to tea parties or picnics in the park with friends. You can turn it into grilled cheese sandwich or add some slices of ham to make a more filling meal. The possibilities are endless when it comes to this sandwich spread.
And what’s more? This recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require complicated instructions or hard-to-find ingredients. You can find most of these ingredients right in your pantry! This southern-style pimento cheese spread is not only portable but also versatile and can be used as dip for chips or veggies as well.
So if you’re in search of a dish that can satisfy your craving for homey comfort food while still impressing your guests, then look no further than this Southern-style Pimiento Cheese Sandwich recipe. It’s guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need for this southern-style pimiento cheese sandwich recipe!
Cheese Base:
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces monterey jack cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Pimiento and Spice Mixture:
- 1/4 cup chopped pimiento, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Note: You can substitute the cheeses listed above for other types of cheese of your liking.
Optional Ingredients:
- Diced onion
- Diced jalapeño peppers
- Sliced green onions
Make sure to get all these ingredients before making the recipe. It is important to follow them carefully to achieve the perfect southern-style pimiento cheese sandwich!
The Recipe How-To
Now comes the fun part – actually making the Southern Style Pimiento Cheese Sandwiches! But don’t worry, it’s not complicated at all. Follow these simple steps:
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to gather for an unforgettable pimiento cheese spread:
- 1 cup packed, coarsely grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons diced pimiento
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How to Make
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In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
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Add in the grated cheddar cheese and beat with a hand mixer on low speed until combined.
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Next, add in the mayonnaise, diced pimientos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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If you prefer a smoother texture, mix for a few minutes longer on low or medium speed until you get your desired consistency.
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Transfer the pimento cheese spread to your serving dish and chill it for at least an hour or until it’s firm enough to spread.
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Once chilled and ready to serve, you can either make it into sandwiches filling or use it as a dip or spread.
Now that you’ve mastered this classic Southern pimento cheese recipe, you have the perfect base for all sorts of yummy variations!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to switch things up on your Southern Style Pimiento Cheese Sandwiches Recipe? No problem, I’m here to help. Here are some substitutions and variations for the recipe ingredients:
– Cheese: The beauty of pimento cheese is that you can mix and match different types of cheese to suit your taste. Try using a combination of mozzarella cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or cream cheese instead of cheddar cheese. You can also use extra sharp cheddar cheese or shredded Parmesan cheese.
– Onion: If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute the grated onion with minced shallot.
– Pimentos: Try using freshly roasted red peppers instead of jarred pimentos. You can also experiment with different types of peppers such as jalapeño peppers, chipotle peppers, or serrano peppers for a spicier kick.
– Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayonnaise to make a healthier version of the pimiento cheese spread.
– Spices: Add some variety to your recipe by incorporating different spices such as cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, or paprika for an extra burst of flavor.
For a more classic Southern-style pimento cheese recipe, stick to the original ingredients listed in the recipe. However, don’t be afraid to get creative and try out some new variations that suit your taste buds. Whether you’re making sandwiches, dips, or grilled cheese, they’ll surely be finger-licking good!
Serving and Pairing
Southern-style pimiento cheese sandwiches are versatile and can be served in various ways. For a classic Southern approach, serve the sandwich as a dip or spread with crackers and vegetable sticks at a picnic, potluck, or game day gathering. Or, add new flavors by serving it as a filling for grilled cheese or tea sandwiches. You can also try using it as a spread for your favorite sandwich, such as ham or turkey.
Pairing wise, pimiento cheese works well with light-bodied and crisp white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio, to balance out the richness of the cheese. If you prefer beer, try pairing with an American-style pale ale or IPA, which can amplify the flavor of the cheese.
For a non-alcoholic option, pair these sandwiches with sweet tea or lemonade to keep it balanced and refreshing. Hosting an afternoon gathering on a hot summer day? Serve these sandwiches with fruit salad and potato chips for a casual atmosphere that everyone will enjoy.
No matter how you serve them, these Southern-style pimiento cheese sandwiches will be an excellent addition to any meal. Their creamy texture, sharp yet subtle flavor profile, and ease of preparation make them one of my favorites.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once you’ve made this delicious Southern Style Pimiento Cheese Spread, you’ll likely have some leftovers. Lucky for you, it keeps very well in the fridge! Simply store any unused spread in an airtight container and it will stay fresh for up to a week.
If you’re planning to make it ahead of time, the spread can be prepared up to two days before serving. It’s a great option for meal prepping or if you’re expecting guests and want to get ahead on your kitchen tasks.
As for reheating the spread, I recommend doing so on low heat in a skillet, stirring constantly until heated through. You can also microwave it for 30 seconds at a time until it reaches your desired temperature. However, keep in mind that the cheese may separate slightly once reheated, but this shouldn’t affect the flavor.
The Southern Style Pimiento Cheese Spread also pairs well with different types of foods such as grilled bread, crackers, vegetables or served as dip alongside finger sandwiches or even ham. Trust me; this spread is so addictive that there’s always going to be someone willing to devour those leftovers!
Tips for Perfect Results
You don’t have to be a seasoned chef to prepare the perfect Southern-Style Pimiento Cheese Sandwiches. Follow these tips for perfect results that will make your sandwiches stand out.
1. Soften Your Cream Cheese at Room Temperature
For a smoother pimiento cheese consistency, bring the cream cheese to room temperature before using it. This makes it easier to blend with the other ingredients.
2. Grate Your Cheese Using a Coarse Grater
To achieve the classic Southern-style pimento cheese texture, coarsely grate the cheese instead of finely shredding it. A hand-held grater works well for this.
3. Mix the Ingredients Well
For a uniform spread, make sure to mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Use either a hand mixer or a food processor, and mix until you get a smooth consistency.
4. Store It Properly
If you’re making your pimiento cheese ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Before serving, allow it to come back to room temperature, and give it another stir.
5. Experiment with Spices
Southern-style pimiento cheese is typically known for its sharp cheddar and tangy pimientos flavors, but don’t be afraid to experiment with additional spices such as cayenne pepper or cracked black pepper.
Follow these tips to master the art of pimiento cheese and take your grilled cheese or tea sandwich game to new levels!
FAQ
As much as I would love to make sure that everyone gets it right the first time, sometimes things don’t go according to plan. Have no fear because here in the FAQ section, we will try to tackle the most commonly encountered questions and problems that might arise during your pimiento cheese sandwich making experience. Trust me, even the masters had some trouble with this classic Southern dish at some point.
What is pimento cheese called in the South?
Pimento cheese is a beloved dish in the South, evoking warm memories of family gatherings and community events. For many Southerners, it’s a familiar and comforting staple, while those from other parts of the country may be less familiar with this iconic dish. Sometimes referred to as “ Southern pate ” or “ Carolina caviar, ” pimento cheese has been a popular food in the South for more than half a century.
How to make Paula Deen’s pimento cheese?
For this delectable southern-style recipe, you’ll need some cream cheese, grated extra-sharp Cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese all prepared in advance to ensure they are at room temperature. In addition to the cheeses, you will need some mayonnaise, garlic powder, minced pimentos, and grated onion to bring this recipe to its full potential. Be sure to coarsely grate the cheeses and mix everything thoroughly for a mouth-watering result.
How do you keep pimento cheese sandwiches from getting soggy?
One of the best ways to prevent your sandwiches from getting dry and hard is to place them on a shallow dish under a slightly moistened towel or paper towel with a sheet of wax paper. Add another layer of wax paper and lay another slightly moist towel on top, making sure not to moisten it too much, as you don’t want your sandwiches to get soggy in the process.
How do you make pimento cheese Trisha Yearwood?
Let’s whip up a satisfying spread for our white sandwich bread. We’ll start by blending smooth the drained pimientos in a food processor. Next, we’ll use an electric mixer to combine the pimientos with cheese until it becomes a smooth and luscious mix. The final step is to beat in the right amount of mayonnaise to balance out the flavors. Be sure to let the mixture cool down to room temperature before spreading it on slices of white bread for optimal taste.
Bottom Line
In closing, I hope this recipe for Southern Style Pimiento Cheese Sandwiches has inspired you to bring a touch of the South into your own kitchen. With simple yet flavorful ingredients like sharp cheddar cheese, chopped pimiento, and mayonnaise, you can make a classic Southern dish that will impress your friends and family.
This recipe is versatile and can be used as a dip or a gourmet spread to take your grilled cheese sandwich to the next level. It’s perfect for backyard BBQs, potlucks, or even a tea party. And don’t forget to try it with some sweet tea or lemonade for the ultimate Southern experience!
Remember, cooking is not just about creating a dish; it’s about creating memories and experiences. So let the Masters Pimiento Cheese spread serve as an addition to create joy in your home gatherings. Put on some music and get cooking!
Southern Style Pimiento Cheese Sandwiches Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated monterey jack cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup thick mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 1 (4 ounce) jar chopped pimiento
- 1 tablespoon grated onion
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl, stir till blended.
- Place in covered container and chill in refrigerator at least 1 hour before spreading on your favorite bread.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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