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.
Delicious Easy Pimento Cheese

What is 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.
Best Homemade Pimento Cheese

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.
Simple Pimento Cheese Spread

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.
Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe

Simple basic and easy recipe for pimento cheese.
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
- Grate your cheese and place into a mixing bowl. (Yes, it's a must to grate your own cheese)
- Add the drained pimentos, seasonings and mayonnaise to the grated cheese.
- Gently mix to combine the ingredients.
- 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:
12Serving Size:
Around 2 tablespoonsAmount Per Serving: Calories: 280Total Fat: 26gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 376mgCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 9g

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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
About Julia
Hey Y'all! I'm Julia, the cook and writer behind the recipes here at Julia's Simply Southern. I began my website so that I could share easy to follow recipes that anyone can use to put a home cooked meal on the dinner table. Thanks so much for stopping by!
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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.