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Easy Pimento Cheese

Featured in Appetizers & Snacks.

Finally got homemade pimento cheese just right! Prepped in 20 minutes. Sharp cheddar adds that bite, cream cheese makes it dreamy. Tried fresh pimentos, and they shine! Perfect for parties—our Derby guests couldn't get enough. So much tastier than store-bought.
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Updated on Wed, 09 Apr 2025 04:25:05 GMT
Close-up of a cheese dip mixed with red peppers, garnished with herbs, served in a glass bowl. Pin it
Close-up of a cheese dip mixed with red peppers, garnished with herbs, served in a glass bowl. | tasteofmoms.com

Authentic Homemade Pimento Cheese

Nothing says down-home comfort like this scratch-made pimento cheese. The mix of tangy sharp cheddar, bright sweet pimentos, and that velvety spiced base come together in something downright magical. What I adore is how it goes with practically everything – smear it on crackers, stuff it in sandwiches, or add a dollop to anything begging for some cheesy zip.

What Makes This Pimento Cheese Special

You'll love how this comes together in minutes but tastes like grandma spent all day on it. Tweak the heat level however you want, and trust me, folks can't get enough whether you're bringing it to a cookout or keeping some handy in the fridge for when snack cravings hit.

Ingredients You'll Want

  • Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Don't buy pre-shredded – grab a block and do it yourself.
  • Cream Cheese: This gives you that smooth, dreamy foundation.
  • Pimento Peppers: These little gems bring the signature flavor.
  • Mayonnaise: It ties everything together with silky richness.
  • Spices: Our special mix adds just enough zing.

Step-By-Step Goodness

Prep Work
Shred your cheese by hand and let cream cheese sit until soft.
Combine Everything
Stir all ingredients until you get that perfect texture.
Season To Taste
Sprinkle in spices until the flavor hits just right.
Dig In
Eat it right away or chill it for later snacking.

Customize Your Creation

Like it gentle? Leave out the hot stuff. Crave fire? Throw in extra jalapeño and a dash more cayenne. Slather it on bread, crown your hamburgers, or scoop it with your go-to crackers. Can't track down pimentos? Just chop up some roasted red peppers instead.

Tasty Companions

This cheesy spread goes amazingly with crisp celery, flaky crackers, and fresh-baked bread. Want something really fantastic? Try melting it between bread slices for the ultimate grilled cheese or put it next to some crispy fried green tomatoes for a proper Southern feast.

A glass bowl filled with creamy cheese spread mixed with red peppers. Pin it
A glass bowl filled with creamy cheese spread mixed with red peppers. | tasteofmoms.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why is freshly grated cheese better?

Pre-grated cheese has added coatings that mess with its smoothness and melting.

→ Why soften the cream cheese?

Soft cream cheese blends quick and easy without clumping up the mix.

→ Can I swap out pimento peppers?

Yes, roasted red peppers work great and taste almost the same.

→ Why does it get firm in the fridge?

The cheese and cream cheese stiffen when cold; just leave it out for 30 minutes so it softens up.

→ How long can I keep it fresh?

If refrigerated, it stays good for up to a week.

Pimento Cheese

This smooth Southern favorite is made by blending sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and pimentos. A tiny kick comes from cayenne and jalapeños.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
10 Minutes
By: Ashley


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Southern U.S.

Yield: 8 Servings (2 cups)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 8 oz cream cheese, at room temp.
02 2 cups cheddar, grated fresh (extra sharp).
03 4 oz jarred pimento, drained.
04 2 tbsp mayo.
05 1/4 tsp onion powder.
06 1/4 tsp garlic powder.
07 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional for heat boost).
08 Minced jalapeño, half of one (if you'd like).
09 Pinch of salt, adjust as needed.
10 Cracked black pepper, add to your taste.

Instructions

Step 01

Toss everything into one big mixing bowl.

Step 02

Whip it together until it’s fully blended.

Step 03

Take a bite and adjust salt or pepper.

Step 04

Add a pinch more cayenne if you’re feeling bold.

Step 05

Scoop it into your serving bowl.

Notes

  1. Make sure the cream cheese is soft.
  2. Microwave cream cheese a few seconds if needed.
  3. Stays good in the fridge up to 7 days.
  4. Leave it out 30 mins before eating.
  5. Roasted red peppers work as a pimento swap.

Tools You'll Need

  • Hand or stand mixer, your choice.
  • Big bowl for mixing.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Cheese and cream cheese (dairy).
  • Mayo contains eggs.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 19 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 2 g
  • Protein: 10 g