Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe

If there were a crown jewel of Southern spreads, Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese would surely wear it with pride. This creamy, tangy, and deeply savory cheese spread has graced picnic tables, parties, and porch lunches for generations. It’s the kind of recipe that delivers a comforting nostalgia with every bite, whether you’ve grown up in the South or just wish you had. Its bold cheddar flavor, slight peppery kick, and colorful flecks of pimento come together so easily, yet feel utterly irresistible.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese is in its simplicity. Each ingredient pulls its weight, adding something special—be that sharpness, creaminess, or that signature pop of color. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips on how to use each component for the creamiest, richest spread possible.

• Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, freshly grated): Using freshly grated gives you unbeatable creaminess and powerful cheddar flavor—skip pre-shredded for best results!
• Mayonnaise (½ cup): The creamy backbone of the spread; choose a good-quality or Southern-style mayo for extra richness.
• Diced pimentos (1 4 oz jar, drained): These sweet red peppers give your pimento cheese its traditional color and a gentle tang.
• Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon): Just a little brings out a surprisingly savory depth without overwhelming the cheese.
• Onion powder (¼ teaspoon): Delivers background flavor that rounds out the cheese and mayo combination.
• Cayenne pepper (¼ teaspoon, optional): Add this for a spicy hint that balances the richness—totally up to how much heat you like!
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for fine-tuning the final flavor; start light and adjust after mixing.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese

Step 1: Combine the Cheese, Mayo, and Pimentos

Grab a medium mixing bowl and toss in your freshly grated cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and those cheerful little diced pimentos. This trio makes the creamy, tangy, and craveworthy base for your Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese. Use a sturdy spatula or spoon to blend everything until you can see pops of red throughout and each strand of cheese is lightly coated in mayo.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. These seasonings add a gentle warmth and savory boost, elevating the flavor without masking the cheese. Finish by adding a small pinch of salt and black pepper—remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out, so start light.

Step 3: Mix Until Creamy

Give it a good stir until the mixture turns rich, spreadable, and unified. You’re looking for a texture that holds its own but isn’t stiff—creamy enough to scoop, but thick enough to stay put on a cracker. Taste now and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 4: Chill for Best Flavor

Patience pays off! Cover your Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese tightly and let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. The flavors will have time to mingle and deepen, making the finished cheese spread even more luscious. If you can, chill longer—it only gets better with a little rest.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

When the wait is finally over, give your pimento cheese one last gentle stir, then bring it out chilled and ready to meet crackers, sandwiches, or a platter of fresh veggies. That first bite is worth every minute of anticipation!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese

Garnishes

Top your pimento cheese with a sprinkle of extra diced pimento or freshly cracked black pepper for a dash of color and a pretty finish. If you want a little fresh flair, a touch of chopped chives or parsley looks gorgeous and offers a whisper of herby brightness.

Side Dishes

Pair Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese with crisp celery sticks, sliced cucumbers, or carrot chips to keep things light and crunchy. Warm, buttery crackers and slices of toasted baguette are also classic matches—they’re perfect for piling on a hearty scoop of the spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piping or spooning your Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese into hollowed-out mini sweet peppers for a festive, bite-sized appetizer. Or go Southern-style by slathering it on soft white bread for the ultimate pimento cheese sandwich. Take it to the next level by adding a dollop atop a juicy burger or baked potato!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors continue to develop and intensify, so it’s often even better in the days after you first make it.

Freezing

While technically possible, freezing Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese is not recommended—the creamy texture can separate and become grainy after thawing. For best results, stick to making what you’ll enjoy within the week.

Reheating

This classic cheese spread is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, not heated. If your pimento cheese has been in the fridge, just give it a stir and let it sit at room temp for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly before serving.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese for Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese?

You can, but freshly grated cheddar makes a noticeable difference in both texture and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese usually contains additives that can make the spread less creamy, so it’s worth the extra step to grate your own.

Is there a good substitute for mayonnaise?

For a tangier version, try mixing in some plain Greek yogurt or a blend of Greek yogurt and mayo. Some folks even swap in whipped cream cheese for an extra-thick and decadent twist.

Can I make Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese spicier?

Absolutely! Add more cayenne, try a splash of your favorite hot sauce, or stir in diced jalapeños for a bold kick. This spread is easy to customize to your own heat preferences.

How do I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free cheddar-style shreds and a vegan mayo substitute to make a plant-based version. The seasonings and pimentos will work just as well, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

What are pimentos and can I use roasted red peppers instead?

Pimentos are mild, sweet red peppers typically sold diced in jars—ideal for their pop of color and gentle flavor. In a pinch, you can finely chop roasted red peppers for a similar effect, though the flavor will be a bit different.

Final Thoughts

Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese is one of those rare recipes that manages to feel both nostalgic and totally fresh every single time you make it. There’s a magic to its creamy, cheesy, tangy simplicity that’s bound to win you fans. Give it a try and let it become a staple at your table too!

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