Condiment
Southern Pimento Cheese Spread
Original name: Pimento Cheese Spread
About this dish
Pimento cheese is the pâte of the American South, a beloved spread that dates back to the early 20th century when cream cheese and canned pimentos became pantry staples. This version keeps things sharp and tangy with extra-sharp cheddar, a whisper of cayenne, and just enough mayonnaise to bind it without turning it soupy.
It's the kind of spread that makes a plain cracker feel like a party and a burger feel like a revelation. Whether you're spreading it on white bread for a classic sandwich or serving it as a dip, this pimento cheese delivers bold, comforting flavor with a gentle kick.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
Extra-sharp yellow cheddar cheese, shredded
dairy225 g
Imperial measurement: 8 oz
Cream cheese, softened
dairy115 g
Imperial measurement: 4 oz
Mayonnaise
fat120 g
Imperial measurement: 1/2 cup
Diced pimentos, drained
vegetable60 g
Imperial measurement: 1/4 cup
Worcestershire sauce
liquid5 ml
Imperial measurement: 1 tsp
Cayenne pepper
spice1 g
Imperial measurement: 1/4 tsp
Garlic powder
spice1 g
Imperial measurement: 1/4 tsp
Kosher salt
seasoning1 g
Imperial measurement: 1/4 tsp
Freshly ground black pepper
seasoning0.5 g
Imperial measurement: 1/8 tsp
Smoked paprika, for garnish
spice1 g
Imperial measurement: 1/4 tsp
Method
Shred the cheddar
PT3MIf your cheddar isn't already shredded, grate it on the large holes of a box grater. For the best texture, shred it yourself rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which is coated with anti-caking agents that can make the spread grainy.
Beat the cream cheese and mayonnaise
PT2MIn a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Beat with a spatula or wooden spoon until smooth and fully incorporated.
Add the seasonings
PT1MStir in the Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
Fold in cheddar and pimentos
PT2MAdd the shredded cheddar and drained pimentos to the bowl. Fold gently until everything is evenly distributed and the mixture is thick and creamy.
Chill and serve
PT30MTransfer the pimento cheese to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Before serving, dust with smoked paprika if desired. The spread will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Equipment
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Nutrition facts
Tips
- For the sharpest, most authentic flavor, grate your own extra-sharp cheddar instead of buying pre-shredded, the texture and melt are noticeably better.
- Let the pimento cheese sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving if you want it soft enough to spread easily without tearing bread.
- A spoonful of pickle juice or a dash of hot sauce can add an extra tangy kick if you like your pimento cheese with a little more bite.
- This spread is highly adaptable: swap in smoked gouda for part of the cheddar, or add finely chopped jalapeño for heat.
Serving suggestions
- Spread on white bread with crusts removed for classic Southern tea sandwiches.
- Serve as a dip with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and crackers., Spoon over hot biscuits or toast points.
- Use as a topping for burgers or grilled chicken.
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Recipe by
Chloe Lawson
Specialises in American cuisineChloe Walker makes buffalo wings with blue cheese dressing (not ranch, she has standards).
Describe yourself in three words: Spicy, saucy, blue cheese loyalist.