Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as gathering around a bowl of Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese, ready to slather onto crackers or sandwiches. Tangy, creamy, and deeply savory, this classic Southern staple uses just a handful of humble ingredients, but the magic is in how they come together. Whether you’re new to pimento cheese or it’s something Grandma always kept in the fridge, you’re about to discover just how satisfying it is to make (and eat!) this beloved spread yourself.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese is chosen for a reason: from the sharp cheddar’s depth to the mellow richness of mayonnaise and the vibrant pop of pimentos, every component matters. Simple as they are, these few items combine forces to create unforgettable flavor and irresistible texture.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, finely shredded): Go for a really flavorful sharp cheddar—it’s the backbone of this classic, lending boldness and a wonderful bite.
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Choose a good-quality mayo for a creamy, luscious spread; it’s the secret to that Southern silky texture.
• Diced Pimentos (1, 4 oz jar, drained): These sweet, mild red peppers add signature color and a gentle peppery zing that sets pimento cheese apart.
• Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): A hint in the background to round out the flavors—don’t skip it!
• Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle depth and a dash of savoriness, balancing the cheese and mayo.
• Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Brings just the right touch of warmth to this creamy spread.
• Cayenne Pepper (pinch, optional): For anyone who likes a little heat, this wakes up the spread without overwhelming.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese

Step 1: Combine Cheese, Mayo, and Pimentos

Grab a medium mixing bowl and pile in your finely shredded sharp cheddar, the mayonnaise, and those vibrantly red, drained pimentos. Using a spatula or sturdy spoon, stir everything together, making sure the pimentos are evenly distributed and the cheese is well coated. Taking your time here sets the stage for a creamy, even base—you want the mayo to hold it all together without disappearing.

Step 2: Season to Perfection

Sprinkle over the garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. If you’re in the mood for a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne at this point. Now give the mixture another good stir so the seasonings reach every bite. This is where Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese really starts to smell and look like the real deal.

Step 3: Adjust Texture and Taste

Check the consistency: If you like your spread really smooth, feel free to pulse the mixture briefly in a food processor. But if you’re a fan of tradition, stick with a hand-mixed, slightly chunky texture—it’s what makes this recipe so nostalgic. Taste and tweak seasonings if you want a little extra kick or more mellow flavor.

Step 4: Chill for Flavor

Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least one hour. This resting time lets the flavors mingle and develop, transforming a few simple ingredients into a truly craveable spread. When you return, you’ll find the cheese and pimentos have melded perfectly—patience really does pay off.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Once chilled, give your spread a quick stir and get ready to serve. Scoop generously onto crackers, pile it high on bread, or spoon it alongside crisp veggies. However you enjoy it, every bite carries that signature Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese charm—creamy, sharp, just a little bit tangy, and utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a light dusting of paprika adds a pop of color and an extra little kick. If you’re feeling fancy, a few chopped chives or thin-sliced green onions on top make it even more inviting. For a Southern flourish, you can layer on extra pimentos for a burst of red that makes this spread almost too pretty to eat.

Side Dishes

Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese is a star all on its own, but it shines even brighter alongside crunchy celery, carrot sticks, or cucumber rounds. It’s perfect with a bowl of spicy pickles, tangy olives, or a light green salad. If you’re bringing it to a potluck, surround the bowl with buttery crackers, fresh baguette slices, or even pretzel rods for scooping up every last bit.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not make finger sandwiches for afternoon tea or tailgate parties? Use Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese as a burger topping, layer it in a grilled cheese, or stuff it into mini bell peppers for a colorful, bite-size snack. It’s also fantastic slathered on toasted bagels or dolloped onto baked potatoes for an easy flavor upgrade. Let your imagination (and cravings) lead the way!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. The flavor will actually deepen and improve after a day or two, making it great for meal prep or easy entertaining. Just give it a quick stir before serving again to re-incorporate any separated mayonnaise and pimento juices.

Freezing

While technically you can freeze Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese, it’s not always recommended because the texture of the mayo and cheese can change after thawing. If you decide to freeze it, portion into smaller containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator, stirring well before eating. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This is one classic that’s meant to be served chilled or at cool room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If your spread is too firm straight from the fridge, simply let it sit out for 10-15 minutes so it softens enough to be easily spread on crackers or sandwiches.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of shredding my own?

You can, but shredding your own sharp cheddar gives the creamiest, most flavorful Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that sometimes affect the texture and melt, so for best results, grab a block and a grater.

Is it possible to make Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese lighter?

Absolutely! You can substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use light mayo to cut down on fat. The spread will still be creamy and delicious, especially if you stick with boldly flavored cheddar.

How do I make it spicier?

For a hot twist on Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese, add more cayenne pepper, stir in a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or swap in some pepper jack cheese for extra heat. Taste as you go to dial in the spice level just right for you.

What can I use if I don’t have pimentos?

If you can’t find jarred diced pimentos, try chopped roasted red peppers as a substitute. They offer a similar sweetness and color, making them a perfect stand-in for classic Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese.

Can this be made vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Use your favorite plant-based cheese shreds and vegan mayo to make a dairy-free version of Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese. The texture and flavor will differ, but you’ll still have a spread that’s tasty and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese from scratch, this is your sign to dive in. With just a handful of ingredients and ten minutes of hands-on effort, you’ll have a dish that wins raves at parties and quiet afternoons alike. Trust me—it’s the kind of Southern classic that’s a joy to share and even more fun to eat. Give it a whirl and make it a new favorite in your home!

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