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Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe

In this post I’m sharing an easy Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe.

It is truly easy to make your own homemade pimento cheese. Pimento cheese is one of those refrigerator staples that can be used a variety of ways.

I’m sure we’ve all had our fair share of pimento cheese sandwiches. This tasty cheesy spread is also great on crackers, as a topping for burgers, stuffed into celery or baked right into your biscuits. Just to name a few.

Classic pimento cheese is pretty basic with just a hint of a spicy kickback.

If you’ve been following the blog for a while then you may have seen my Southern Caviar Pimento Cheese recipe. That recipe is also delicious but a bit more involved with more ingredients such as a variety of cheeses, cream cheese and is a bit more costly to make.

So we’re taking it back to the basics here with this simple recipe that is beloved to many.

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What is old fashioned pimento cheese made of? The basic recipe is cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos and a few dashes of cayenne pepper. 

What are pimentos? Pimentos are a mild pepper.

How long does homemade pimento cheese last? Your homemade pimento cheese will last up to 3 weeks stored in the refrigerator. 

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Pimento cheese is also handy during the holidays for appetizers or to be jarred for homemade food gifts.

Have you ever tried using pimento cheese for your grilled cheese sandwiches? It’s amazing! Perfect with a bowl of homemade tomato soup.

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Oh, before I forget….when making your pimento cheese, don’t mix it to death. You want to recognize the freshly grated cheese strands so just mix it enough to combine the ingredients.

Below, you’ll find all the measurements and instructions in the printable recipe card. Let’s make a batch of this Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe.

Yield: 1 pound of Pimento Cheese

Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe

Best Southern soul food pimento cheese recipe ever - so delicious

Simple basic and easy recipe for pimento cheese.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 16 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese, grated
  • 4 oz Diced Pimentos, drained well
  • 1 c Mayonnaise
  • Pinch of Salt
  • Cracked Black Pepper, to taste
  • 1/8 tsp Ground Cayenne Pepper

Instructions

  1. Grate your cheese and place into a mixing bowl. (Yes, it's a must to grate your own cheese)
  2. Add the drained pimentos, seasonings and mayonnaise to the grated cheese.
  3. Gently mix to combine the ingredients.
  4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Notes

This recipe will make 24 tea sandwiches or about 6 regular sandwiches.

Pimento cheese may also be used as an ingredient in recipes or as an appetizer spread. See post for more details.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

12

Serving Size:

Around 2 tablespoons

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 280Total Fat: 26gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 376mgCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 9g

What to Serve with Pimento Cheese?

When you’re serving up that creamy, cheesy goodness old fashioned pimento cheese spread, you wanna make sure it’s surrounded by some southern loving. Y’all know I’ve got some tasty suggestions up my sleeve, so here goes:

  • Crackers: Serve your pimento cheese with an assortment of crackers, such as buttery Ritz crackers
  • Vegetables: Fresh vegetable dippers like celery sticks, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips are a healthy and refreshing choice.
  • Pretzels: Pretzel rods or pretzel crisps provide a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy pimento cheese.
  • Toasted Sandwiches: Spread pimento cheese on bread and grill it for a mouthwatering grilled cheese sandwich. Add some crispy bacon or thinly sliced tomato for extra flavor.
  • Crudité Platter: Create a colorful vegetable platter with a variety of fresh veggies and serve the pimento cheese as a dip or spread.
  • Potato Chips: Classic potato chips or kettle-cooked chips make for a delightful and crunchy pairing.
  • Fried Green Tomatoes: Serve pimento cheese atop fried green tomato slices for a southern-inspired treat.

    Remember, the options are endless, and you can get as creative as you like when serving pimento cheese. It’s all about what tickles your taste buds!

 

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In conclusion, whether you’re enjoying pimento cheese as a classic Southern spread or experimenting with innovative pairings, the key is to savor every bite.

This creamy, cheesy delight has a way of bringing comfort and flavor to any occasion. So, gather your loved ones, explore different serving ideas, and let the joy of pimento cheese add a touch of Southern charm to your table.

Here’s to good company, great food, and the simple pleasures that make life so delicious!

 

Thank you for stopping by! I hope that you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does.

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See this recipe shared at Meal Plan Monday and Weekend Potluck

Meet Julia

Author of Julia's Simply Southern

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Barbara Miller

Monday 21st of August 2023

Your recipe for pimento cheese is so simple and tasty. I try to keep some made and in the fridge at all times. Best ever recipe. TY.

Barbara Miller

Monday 21st of March 2022

This is the best ever and simple is key.

Julia Jordan

Tuesday 22nd of March 2022

Barbara, I couldn't agree more! Thanks for stopping by. ~Julia

Carlee

Friday 20th of December 2019

My mom said the cafeteria in college put pimentos in everything, so she avoids them.... so I have never had pimento cheese. I really need to change that. This looks delicious!

Julia Jordan

Friday 20th of December 2019

HaHa! I guess they added a pop of color to that cafeteria food.

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