Description
Creamy Southern pimento cheese delight brings comfort and tradition to your plate, blending rich cheddar and zesty peppers. Smooth spreadable magic connects family gatherings with delicious heritage, inviting you to savor classic flavors in every delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Cheese Ingredients:
- 2 cups freshly grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened and cut into 1-inch cubes
Pepper and Flavor Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (113 grams) pimento peppers, well-drained and finely chopped
- 1 medium jalapeño pepper, deseeded and minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, adjust according to heat preference)
Seasoning and Binding Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Duke’s or Sir Kensington’s recommended)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature to facilitate smooth blending and optimal flavor development.
- Select a spacious mixing vessel, preferably a stand mixer or large bowl, to accommodate the cheese mixture comfortably.
- Introduce shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese into the container, creating a foundational dairy base.
- Add vibrant diced pimento peppers, providing a characteristic tangy and slightly sweet undertone to the spread.
- Incorporate creamy mayonnaise, which will help bind the ingredients and contribute to a luscious texture.
- Sprinkle aromatic garlic powder and onion powder to enhance the overall flavor profile with subtle, complex notes.
- For those desiring a spicy kick, include finely chopped jalapeños and a measured dash of cayenne pepper.
- Employ a hand mixer or robust utensil to thoroughly integrate all components, ensuring a uniform, velvety consistency.
- Taste the mixture, carefully adjusting seasonings to balance heat, saltiness, and creaminess according to personal preference.
- Transfer the pimento cheese to an elegant serving dish, or seal in an airtight container for refrigeration.
- When ready to serve, allow the spread to rest at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes to soften and develop maximum flavor complexity.
Notes
- Versatile Spread Magic: This pimento cheese delight transforms from a simple dip to a gourmet sandwich filling or cracker topper with incredible ease.
- Spice Customization: Adjust heat levels by controlling cayenne pepper and jalapeño amounts, making it perfect for mild to wild taste preferences.
- Cheese Selection Matters: Use high-quality sharp cheddar for maximum flavor depth and creamy texture that elevates the entire spread.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare up to 3-4 days in advance, allowing flavors to meld and intensify while stored in an airtight container.
- Temperature Tips: Refrigerate immediately after preparing and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to achieve optimal spreadable consistency.
- Unexpected Serving Ideas: Excellent as a grilled cheese base, baked potato topping, or quick appetizer when paired with crackers and fresh vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg