If you’re craving a classic Southern delight that brings together sharp cheddar, creamy mayo, and the unmistakable pop of diced pimentos, you have to try this Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe. This spread has been a beloved staple for generations, boasting a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and just a hint of spice. Whether you’re serving it at a party, enjoying it as a snack, or making a sandwich that sings with flavor, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and downright addictive. Let’s dive into this timeless comfort food that truly defines Southern hospitality in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward, relying on a few essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and rich, layered flavor of your Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the dish, offering a robust and tangy foundation with plenty of bite.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creaminess and a milder flavor to balance the sharp cheddar.
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos (drained): Provides a mild, sweet pepper taste with a vibrant pop of color.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Brings creamy richness that binds everything together perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth without overpowering the cheese.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Offers a gentle savory note that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Gives a customizable kick of warmth for those who like a little heat.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for rounding out the cheese and mayo combo with the perfect seasoning balance.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Cheeses
Start by placing your shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses in a large mixing bowl. Using two different cheeses is the trick to getting that creamy yet flavorful consistency Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe is known for, balancing sharpness with smoothness.
Step 2: Add the Pimentos
Next, add the drained diced pimentos to the cheeses. These little red gems give this spread its signature sweetness and a splash of cheerful color. Stir them gently to distribute them evenly throughout the cheese mixture.
Step 3: Mix in the Mayonnaise and Seasonings
Now for the magic: mix in the mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and the optional cayenne pepper. These ingredients bind everything together while layering on subtle complexity. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, making sure all components are well incorporated.
Step 4: Season and Chill
Season your creation with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to suit your taste buds. This step is key to bringing out the flavors vibrantly. Once seasoned, cover the bowl and refrigerate your pimento cheese for at least one hour. This chilling time allows all the flavors to mingle, transforming it into that classic, luscious spread you’ll crave.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a few whole pimentos on top can make the presentation pop and visually invite everyone to dig in. For a bit more freshness, a sprinkling of chopped fresh chives or parsley works beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe pairs wonderfully with crunchy crackers, crisp celery sticks, or buttery toasted bread. It also works brilliantly as a topping for burgers or stuffed inside a sandwich with fresh tomato slices for a satisfying Southern-inspired meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting friends or family, serve it in a rustic crock or a charming vintage bowl surrounded by an assortment of dippables such as pretzels, pita chips, or colorful vegetable sticks. For a fun twist, use it as a filling for deviled eggs or a spread on puff pastry for elegant bite-sized appetizers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This delightful pimento cheese spreads keeps beautifully in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 5 days, so you can make it well in advance for gatherings or weekday snacks.
Freezing
While freezing this Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe isn’t generally recommended because mayonnaise-based spreads can separate, if you must freeze it, store it in a tightly sealed container and thaw overnight in the fridge, then stir well before serving.
Reheating
This is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you want to warm it slightly, simply let it sit out for a little while or briefly warm it in a microwave-safe dish for a few seconds, stirring gently to maintain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack are traditional, you can experiment with smoked cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor. Just keep the cheese shredded finely for the best texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
By default, this Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe is mild. You can add cayenne pepper or jalapeños to give it a nice spicy kick, but it’s entirely up to your taste preferences.
What’s the best way to serve pimento cheese at a party?
Serve it chilled with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables. Setting it in a pretty bowl surrounded by dippables encourages guests to help themselves and keeps things casual and fun.
Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?
This traditional recipe relies heavily on cheese and mayonnaise, so making it dairy-free or vegan would require alternative products like vegan cheeses and plant-based mayo, which can change the texture and flavor significantly.
How far ahead can I prepare pimento cheese?
You can prepare this Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe up to 3 days in advance. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container and give it a good stir before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe is a genuine Southern treasure that brings so much joy with just a few humble ingredients. It’s creamy, tangy, and perfectly cheesy—a true crowd-pleaser that’s as easy as it is delicious. I hope you give it a try and share it with the people you care about because honestly, who doesn’t love a little comfort in a bowl? Happy cooking and even happier snacking!
Print
Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese is a classic Southern American cheese spread combining sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and diced pimentos with creamy mayonnaise and a blend of seasonings. This no-cook, flavorful appetizer is perfect for serving with crackers, bread, or as a sandwich spread. Easy to prepare and chill, it embodies the nostalgic taste of traditional Southern comfort food.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Other Ingredients
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Cheeses: In a large bowl, add the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Mix them together to evenly combine.
- Add Pimentos: Stir in the drained diced pimentos, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
- Mix Seasonings and Mayonnaise: Add the mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Season to Taste: Season the spread with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Mix well to incorporate the seasoning.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the pimento cheese chilled as a dip with crackers, spread on bread, or use as a sandwich filling.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
- Use Duke’s mayonnaise for a more traditional Southern flavor.
- This spread can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
