If you have a hankering for a rich, indulgent, and delightfully tangy spread that never fails to impress, you are in for a treat with this Creamy Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe. This Southern classic blends sharp Cheddar cheese, smooth cream cheese, and the subtle sweetness of pimento peppers into a luscious concoction that’s perfect for snacking, entertaining, or jazzing up your favorite sandwiches. Every bite bursts with creamy texture and just the right amount of kick, making it a must-have recipe to keep in your culinary arsenal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple and straightforward ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of creaminess, tang, and spice. From the sharpness of the Cheddar to the gentle heat of jalapeño, every addition enhances the depth and character of your spread.
- 2 cups freshly grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese: For an intense, cheesy flavor and slightly crumbly texture that forms the backbone of the spread.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into 1” cubes and softened: Adds incredible creaminess and helps bind everything smoothly together.
- 4 ounces pimento peppers, well drained and chopped if in strips: Provides a subtle sweetness and vibrant color contrast to the cheese.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Duke’s is traditional for its tang and creaminess, but Sir Kensington’s works well, too.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a gentle savoriness that deepens the flavor profile without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle pungency to round out the taste.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper: Brings a warm, spicy kick; adjust or skip if you prefer less heat.
- ½ medium jalapeño pepper, ribs and seeds removed, minced (about 1 tablespoon): For added fresh spicy notes, optional depending on your heat tolerance.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a peppery punch that highlights the cheese’s sharpness.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances and balances the overall flavor.
How to Make Creamy Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
Start by putting your freshly grated sharp Cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese cubes, well-drained pimento peppers, and mayonnaise into a large mixing bowl. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, minced jalapeño if you’re using it, and a few twists of freshly ground black pepper. This combination is the foundation that will soon turn into the luscious creamy spread you’re craving.
Step 2: Mix Until Smooth
Using a hand mixer, stand mixer, or a sturdy wooden spoon, blend everything thoroughly. Be patient here — you want to achieve a creamy, well-incorporated mixture where the cheese melds with the cream cheese and seasonings to create a velvety, spreadable texture that holds its shape without feeling dry or crumbly.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give your creation a little taste test. Does it need a bit more salt, a twist more black pepper, or an extra pinch of cayenne for boldness? This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so don’t hesitate to adjust the spices until it perfectly suits your palate. Remember, making a Creamy Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe your own is part of the fun!
Step 4: Chill or Serve Immediately
Once your pimento cheese is mixed to perfection, transfer it to a serving bowl. You can enjoy this spread right away, but for best flavor and texture, chill it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If chilled, simply take it out about 30 minutes before serving to soften it back up for easy spreading and maximum creamy goodness.
How to Serve Creamy Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your pimento cheese spread, add fresh herbs like finely chopped chives or parsley on top. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a few sliced green onions can also brighten the presentation and add subtle complementary flavors. Garnishing thoughtfully not only makes your dish pop visually but adds an extra burst of freshness.
Side Dishes
This creamy spread pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Crunchy crackers, crisp celery sticks, or buttery toasted bread are classic choices that provide texture contrast. You can also team it up with sliced cucumbers or sweet pickles to balance the richness with some refreshing crunch and tang.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl! Use the Creamy Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe as a sandwich filler alongside smoked turkey or ham for an irresistible Southern-style lunch. It’s also fantastic dolloped atop baked potatoes, or as a topping on burgers for a cheesy, spicy twist. For parties, try stuffing mini bell peppers or serve as a dip with colorful vegetable crudités — the versatility here is truly endless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your pimento cheese, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and creamy for up to one week. The flavors often deepen overnight, so leftovers can be even better the next day!
Freezing
Freezing this Creamy Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe isn’t usually recommended because the texture can change once thawed, becoming a bit grainy or watery. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated within the week.
Reheating
Since this is a cold spread, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer a slightly softened texture, simply leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving rather than warming it up.
FAQs
Can I make the Creamy Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe without jalapeño?
Absolutely! The jalapeño adds mild heat and freshness, but if you prefer a milder spread or don’t like spicy flavors, you can easily omit it without sacrificing the overall deliciousness.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise in this recipe?
Mayonnaise helps with creaminess and flavor. If you want to swap it out, try Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter alternative, though it will slightly alter the taste and texture.
Is this pimento cheese spread gluten-free?
Yes, all the basic ingredients in this Creamy Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggies to keep the whole snack gluten-free.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I adjust the heat level?
The recipe has a gentle kick thanks to the cayenne and jalapeño, but you can easily adjust the heat to your liking by reducing or omitting these spices. For a stronger kick, just add a bit more cayenne or jalapeño.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this spread?
While pre-shredded cheese can work in a pinch, freshly grated Cheddar melts and blends more smoothly, giving the spread a better texture and richer flavor. Freshly grating also helps avoid any anti-caking additives that could affect creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe is one of those timeless treasures that bring warmth and comfort with every bite. Whether you’re preparing for a casual get-together, a picnic, or just craving a delicious snack, this spread is incredibly easy to whip up and endlessly versatile. I encourage you to dive in, experiment with the seasonings, and make it your own. Your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find yourself reaching for it again and again!
Print
Creamy Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Spread
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This classic Pimento Cheese recipe features a creamy, tangy blend of extra-sharp Cheddar, cream cheese, and diced pimento peppers, seasoned with a hint of garlic, onion, cayenne, and fresh jalapeño for a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a versatile spread ideal for sandwiches, crackers, or as a snack, effortlessly prepared in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups freshly grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into 1” cubes and softened at room temperature
- 4 ounces pimento peppers, well drained and chopped if in strips
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Duke’s or Sir Kensington’s)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust or omit if sensitive to spice)
- ½ medium jalapeño pepper, ribs and seeds removed, minced (about 1 tablespoon; omit if sensitive to spice)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add the grated cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese cubes, well-drained pimento peppers, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cayenne pepper, minced jalapeño (if using), and a few twists of freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix Thoroughly: Using a hand mixer, stand mixer, or a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula, beat or stir the mixture until all ingredients are thoroughly combined into a smooth, creamy spread.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste your pimento cheese and season further as needed. Add extra black pepper for more bite, a pinch of salt for depth, or additional cayenne pepper to increase heat. Blend again if you make any additions.
- Serve or Chill: Transfer the prepared pimento cheese to a serving bowl. Serve it immediately for a fresh taste or cover and refrigerate for up to one week. If chilled, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften the spread.
Notes
- For a milder version, omit the jalapeño and reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
- Use extra-sharp cheddar for the best flavor impact; milder cheeses will change the taste profile.
- This spread pairs wonderfully with crackers, toasted bread, sandwiches, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Letting the cheese mixture come to room temperature before serving enhances the creaminess and flavor.
