Pimento Cheese Sandwiches
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Pimento cheese sandwiches are a Southern classic that’s easy to make at home. You can whip up these tasty sandwiches in just 10 minutes with a few simple ingredients. The creamy blend of cheeses, tangy pimentos, and zesty spices creates a flavor-packed spread that’s perfect for lunch or snacks.
This recipe makes enough for 4 sandwiches, but you can easily double it for a crowd. The pimento cheese keeps well in the fridge, so you can make extra to enjoy throughout the week. Spread it on your favorite bread or serve as a dip with crackers and veggies for a quick and yummy treat.
Exact Ingredients List
Here’s what you need to make these tasty pimento cheese sandwiches:
For the cheese spread:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, drained
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dash of hot sauce (optional)
For the sandwiches:
- 8 slices soft white or wheat bread
You can mix things up by using extra sharp cheddar for more flavor. If you’re in the South, try Duke’s mayo for that classic taste. Want your sandwiches on fancy bread? Brioche or sourdough work great too!
Remember, you can adjust the spices to suit your taste. Add more cayenne or hot sauce if you like it spicy, or leave them out if you prefer milder flavors.
Instructions
Mix the cheeses, mayo, and pimentos in a big bowl. Add the spices and stir well. You can use a hand mixer for a smoother spread or mix by hand for a chunkier texture.
Taste the mixture and add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce if you like. Spread a thick layer of pimento cheese on a slice of bread. About 1/4 inch is perfect.
Put another slice of bread on top to make your sandwich. Cut it diagonally if you want it to look fancy. Your pimento cheese sandwich is ready to eat!
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Mix ingredients
- Adjust seasoning
- Spread on bread
- Top with second slice
- Cut and serve
You can make extra pimento cheese and keep it in the fridge. It’s great for snacking with crackers or celery sticks too!
Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations
You can easily change up this pimento cheese recipe to suit your taste. Try swapping out the cheeses for different flavors. Colby jack or pepper jack can replace the Monterey Jack for a twist.
Don’t have pimentos? Roasted red peppers work great too. Just chop them up finely.
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo. It keeps things creamy but cuts down on calories.
Want more kick? Add extra hot sauce or diced jalapeños. For a smoky flavor, mix in some crispy bacon bits.
Here are some fun sandwich variations to try:
- Grilled pimento cheese
- Pimento cheese BLT
- Pimento cheese and turkey
- Pimento cheese with sliced tomato and avocado
You can also use the pimento cheese as a dip for veggies or crackers. It’s great spread on celery sticks or stuffed into mini peppers for a party snack.
Get creative and make this classic recipe your own! There are so many tasty ways to enjoy pimento cheese.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
For the best pimento cheese sandwiches, use high-quality extra sharp cheddar. It gives the spread a richer taste. Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded for better flavor and texture.
Let the pimento cheese spread chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before using. This allows the flavors to blend together nicely. You can make it up to 3 days ahead of time.
Try grilling your pimento cheese sandwich for a warm, melty treat. Butter the outside of the bread and cook in a pan until golden brown on both sides.
Store leftover pimento cheese spread in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 5 days. Give it a quick stir before using again.
For a fun twist, try adding chopped bacon, jalapeños, or green onions to your pimento cheese spread. Get creative with different breads too – pumpernickel or rye can add extra flavor.
To make thinner sandwiches, use about 1/4 cup of pimento cheese per sandwich. This will give you more servings – around 14-16 triangles instead of 8.