Southern cuisine is known for its bold, comforting flavors, and Easy Southern Pimento Cheese is no exception. This beloved spread is a staple in Southern kitchens and has been for generations. With its creamy, cheesy base, a hint of tang from pimentos, and a perfect blend of spices, it’s the ideal snack or appetizer to serve at any gathering. Whether you’re spreading it on crackers, slathering it on a sandwich, or simply eating it by the spoonful, this pimento cheese is irresistible.

What makes this Easy Southern Pimento Cheese stand out is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients—cheese, mayo, pimentos, and a few seasonings—you can whip up a batch of this creamy, flavorful spread in minutes. It’s the perfect blend of savory, tangy, and just a little bit spicy, making it a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion.

This pimento cheese is a versatile dish. You can make it as mild or as spicy as you like, depending on your personal taste. It’s perfect for serving at a Southern-style picnic, as an appetizer for a holiday gathering, or just as a quick snack when you’re craving something rich and cheesy. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a classic that’s stood the test of time in Southern kitchens.

Easy Southern Pimento Cheese is a creamy, tangy spread made with sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, and a few seasonings. This spread is a Southern classic, perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or just as a dip. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it quick and easy to prepare, yet it’s packed with rich flavor that’s sure to please everyone.

This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, cheesy flavors. Whether you’re a Southern food enthusiast or just looking for a delicious and easy appetizer, this pimento cheese will quickly become a favorite. It’s a versatile dish that can be served in many ways, from spread on bread for a simple sandwich to dolloped on vegetables or used as a dip for chips.

With its easy prep and big flavor, Easy Southern Pimento Cheese is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even just for a quick snack. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious.

Exciting Story:

I first discovered Easy Southern Pimento Cheese when I visited my grandmother in Georgia. She would make a big bowl of it for family gatherings, and I could never resist sneaking a spoonful or two. The way she combined the sharp cheese, creamy mayo, and tangy pimentos was magic, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Since then, it’s become a staple in my own kitchen. Whether I’m spreading it on a sandwich for lunch, using it as a dip for a party, or simply enjoying it on crackers as a snack, this pimento cheese always brings back memories of those warm Southern afternoons. It’s one of those recipes that’s simple, but so satisfying—comforting and nostalgic all at once.

Now, I make it for my own family, and every time I do, they can’t get enough of it. It’s become a favorite snack in our house, and it’s always requested at gatherings. With its creamy texture and bold flavor, this Southern classic never disappoints.

Why This Easy Southern Pimento Cheese:

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this pimento cheese is ready in minutes.
• Versatile: Serve it as a dip, sandwich spread, or topping for crackers, vegetables, or even burgers.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste—add a dash of hot sauce for heat, or keep it mild for a family-friendly version.
• Comforting and Flavorful: The rich, cheesy, and tangy combination is undeniably satisfying and comforting.
• Southern Classic: This dish is a staple in Southern homes and has been passed down through generations, making it a true classic.

What You Need For Easy Southern Pimento Cheese:

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Easy Southern Pimento Cheese:

1. Prepare the cheese: Shred the sharp cheddar cheese if using block cheese. You can also use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly shredded cheese tends to have a better texture.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
3. Season to taste: Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper to your liking. If you like your pimento cheese with a bit more spice, feel free to add extra cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
4. Chill and serve: For the best flavor, let the pimento cheese chill in the fridge for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve it as a dip for crackers, vegetables, or chips, or spread it on a sandwich for a Southern-inspired meal.

Tips for Easy Southern Pimento Cheese:

• Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the best texture and flavor, shred the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded cheese.
• Let It Sit: Letting the pimento cheese sit for a bit before serving allows the flavors to develop and intensify.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a finely chopped jalapeño for some extra heat and depth of flavor.
• Make It Ahead: This pimento cheese can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Low-Fat Version: Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute for regular mayonnaise for a lighter version.
• Different Cheese: Try adding a bit of cream cheese, Monterey Jack, or a spicy cheese like pepper jack for added flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free cheese to make this a vegan-friendly spread.
• Add-ins: Mix in finely chopped celery or green onions for a little crunch and extra flavor.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Lower-Calorie: Use light mayo or Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cheese for a lower-calorie version of this pimento cheese.
• Gluten-Free: This pimento cheese is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

Closing for Easy Southern Pimento Cheese:

And there you have it! This Easy Southern Pimento Cheese is a creamy, tangy, and delicious spread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a snack, or preparing a quick sandwich, this Southern classic will always satisfy. Let us know how your pimento cheese turns out, and be sure to check out more of our easy, delicious recipes for more Southern-inspired dishes!

Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Southern Pimento Cheese:

How long can I store this pimento cheese?
Pimento cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

Can I make this pimento cheese spicy?
Yes! Add more cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese you prefer, but sharp cheddar is traditional for that tangy flavor.

Can I use low-fat mayonnaise?
Yes, using low-fat or light mayo will reduce the calories while keeping the flavor rich and creamy.

Can I freeze pimento cheese?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze pimento cheese for up to 1-2 months. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, pimento cheese is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it with gluten-free crackers or bread.

Can I make this pimento cheese ahead of time?
Yes! Making it ahead allows the flavors to blend together, and it actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.

Can I add vegetables to pimento cheese?
Yes, you can add chopped onions, celery, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.

Can I use pimento cheese as a dip?
Yes, pimento cheese is perfect as a dip for crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables like celery and carrots.

What’s the best way to serve pimento cheese?
You can spread it on crackers, toast, or bread, or use it as a dip or topping for burgers or hot dogs.

Can I make pimento cheese without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier alternative.

How do I make the pimentos smoother?
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can chop the pimentos finely or blend them into the mixture.

Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, a small amount of garlic powder or minced garlic can add extra flavor to the spread.

Is pimento cheese only served cold?
While it’s traditionally served cold, you can also serve it warm by microwaving or heating it slightly to create a warm dip.

This Easy Southern Pimento Cheese is perfect for any occasion and is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness in every bite!

Easy Southern Pimento Cheese

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes, Dinner Recipe, Lunch Recipe, Weight watchers

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Prepare the cheese: Shred the sharp cheddar cheese if using block cheese. You can also use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly shredded cheese tends to have a better texture.
• Mix the ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
• Season to taste: Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper to your liking. If you like your pimento cheese with a bit more spice, feel free to add extra cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Chill and serve: For the best flavor, let the pimento cheese chill in the fridge for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve it as a dip for crackers, vegetables, or chips, or spread it on a sandwich for a Southern-inspired meal.