Name: Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2.5 cups shredded Cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 4 oz pimentos, drained; 1/2 cup cream cheese; 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 2 teaspoons garlic powder with parsley; 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar

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If you’ve never had a bite of homemade pimento cheese, let me tell you—you’re in for a treat. Imagine a creamy, cheesy spread with just the right touch of tang and a hint of smoky heat, all in one bite. That’s what you’ll get with this Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese recipe. It’s the kind of thing you’ll want to slather on crackers, sandwiches, or just dip your finger in for a quick snack (no judgment here!). Trust me, this version is a game-changer, and it’s so simple to make. Get ready to be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese

This isn’t just any dip—it’s a comfort food classic with a modern twist. Here’s why this pimento cheese is a total winner:

Versatile: Whether you’re enjoying a cozy snack on your own, spreading it on a burger, or bringing it to a family gathering, this pimento cheese will fit the bill perfectly. It’s a simple recipe, but the flavors are so addictive, you’ll find yourself coming back for more.
Budget-Friendly: You don’t need a ton of fancy ingredients for this one. The beauty of pimento cheese is that it’s made with everyday staples, and you can still create something delicious without breaking the bank. It’s a win-win!
Quick and Easy: This is one of those recipes that takes mere minutes to whip up. With just a few basic steps, you’ll have a bowl of cheesy goodness ready to enjoy. Even if you’re not a seasoned chef, you’ll feel like a pro.
Customizable: Want a little extra kick? Add some cayenne or hot sauce. Prefer something milder? You can easily dial down the heat. This pimento cheese is all about making it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: No matter who’s at the table, this pimento cheese will be a hit. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor—what’s not to love?

Ingredients in Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese

Here’s the magic of pimento cheese—it’s made with just a few simple ingredients, but together, they create a flavor-packed spread that’s out of this world. Let’s break it down:

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show. Its bold, tangy flavor brings everything together.
Cream Cheese: Smooth, creamy, and gives the spread that dreamy texture.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness and binds everything together.
Pimentos: These little gems bring a pop of color and a mild, slightly tangy flavor.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: The perfect seasoning to add a little extra depth.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the flavors of everything.
Optional: A touch of cayenne or hot sauce: For those who like a little heat!

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make this Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese:

Combine Ingredients:

In a large bowl, grate the sharp cheddar cheese. Add the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. Then, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you like a little heat, now’s the time to add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.

Mix Until Smooth:

Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend everything together until you’ve got a smooth, creamy mixture. It’s okay if it’s a little chunky—that’s part of the charm. Just make sure everything is well combined.

Taste and Adjust:

Here’s where you get to play around a bit! Give it a taste and see if you want to add more seasoning, mayo, or even a bit more pimento. Make it your own and adjust to your liking.

Chill:

Cover the pimento cheese and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. If you can resist, let it sit longer for even more flavor!

Serve and Enjoy:

Now that you’ve got your pimento cheese ready, serve it up with crackers, veggies, or even spread it on a sandwich or burger. It’s perfect for snacking, entertaining, or just satisfying that cheese craving.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese

This cheesy delight is perfect for so many occasions. Here are a few ways to serve it up:

On Crackers or Toast: Spread it thick on a crispy cracker or a toasted slice of bread for the ultimate snack.
As a Sandwich Spread: Slather it on your favorite bread for a simple yet satisfying sandwich.
With Veggies: Dip fresh veggies like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for a lighter option.
On Burgers: Make your burger even better by adding a generous scoop of pimento cheese on top.
With Chips: Grab a bag of your favorite chips for a fun, crunchy pairing.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Pimento cheese actually gets better the longer it sits. Make it ahead of time and let the flavors meld together in the fridge for a day or two.
Spice It Up: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of chili flakes if you want a little more heat.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for up to a week (if it lasts that long!).
Make It Creamier: If you like your pimento cheese extra creamy, just add a little more mayo or cream cheese until you reach your desired consistency.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A1: Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is the classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile a bit.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A2: Yes! Pimento cheese actually tastes even better after it sits in the fridge for a bit. Just let it chill for at least 30 minutes, but you can make it the day before for even more flavor.

Q3: How long does it last in the fridge?

A3: It should stay fresh for about 5-7 days in an airtight container. But honestly, it might be gone before that!

Q4: Can I freeze pimento cheese?

A4: While you can freeze pimento cheese, it’s best fresh. Freezing may alter the texture a little, but it’s still safe to eat.

Q5: What’s the best way to serve this?

A5: Spread it on crackers, use it in sandwiches, or just eat it straight from the bowl with a spoon (we won’t judge). It’s versatile, so go wild!

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese is the perfect addition to any meal, snack time, or gathering. With its creamy texture, sharp cheddar flavor, and just the right amount of kick, you’re going to be hooked from the first bite. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it up to friends, it’s sure to be a hit. So go ahead, give it a try, and get ready to savor every bite!