Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe

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Southern pimento cheese is a tasty treat you can whip up in no time. This classic dip combines sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese with zesty pimentos and spices. You can make this yummy spread in just 15 minutes with a few simple ingredients.

Want to impress your friends at your next get-together? Serve this pimento cheese dip with crackers or veggies. It’s also great as a sandwich filling. You can even add some extra kick by mixing in jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese. Give this easy recipe a try and taste the creamy, cheesy goodness for yourself!

Exact Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this tasty Southern pimento cheese:

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated
• 4 ounces (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 (4-ounce) jar of pimentos, drained and finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Remember to grate your cheeses fresh for the best flavor and texture. You can adjust the spices to suit your taste buds.

Feel free to leave out the Worcestershire sauce if you prefer, but it adds a nice depth of flavor. This recipe makes about 8 servings, perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Instructions

Start by beating the cream cheese in a big bowl until it’s nice and smooth. Scrape the sides and bottom to get it all mixed.

Next, add the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Mix them in well with the cream cheese.

Now it’s time for the other stuff. Put in the mayo, pimentos, spices, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Stir everything until it looks the same color all over.

Give it a taste. Add more salt, pepper, or other spices if you think it needs it.

Your pimento cheese is ready to eat right away! You can also cover it and put it in the fridge for an hour if you like it cold.

Try it on sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip for veggies. It’s great for parties or just a tasty snack.

Remember, this recipe makes about 8 servings and takes only 15 minutes to make. Each serving has around 308 calories.

Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations

You can easily tweak this classic Southern pimento cheese recipe to suit your taste. Try these simple swaps and additions:

Cheese substitutes:

• Colby jack instead of Monterey Jack
• Pepper jack for a spicy kick
• White cheddar for a milder flavor

Mayo alternatives:

• Greek yogurt for a tangy, healthier option
• Sour cream for extra richness

Spice it up:

• Add diced jalapeños for heat
• Mix in crispy bacon bits
• Stir in chopped green onions

Can’t find pimentos? Use roasted red peppers instead. They’ll give a similar sweet pepper flavor.

For a smoky twist, add a dash of liquid smoke or use smoked cheddar cheese.

Want it creamier? Increase the amount of cream cheese or mayo slightly.

You can also try these fun variations:

• Garlic lover’s: Add 2-3 minced garlic cloves
• Herb-infused: Mix in fresh chopped herbs like chives or parsley
• Buffalo style: Stir in some hot sauce for a spicy buffalo kick

Remember, small changes can make a big difference in flavor. Feel free to play around and create your perfect pimento cheese!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Grate your own cheese for the best texture and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect the taste.

Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. This makes it easier to blend with other ingredients.

For a smoother dip, use a food processor to mix the ingredients. Pulse until you reach your desired consistency.

Store your pimento cheese in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

To make your dip spicier, add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Try different cheese combinations to create your own unique flavor. Pepper Jack or smoked Gouda can add a nice twist.

When serving, take the dip out of the fridge about 30 minutes before eating. This allows the flavors to develop and makes it easier to spread.

Freeze leftover pimento cheese for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.