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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.

Best Southern soul food pimento cheese recipe ever - so delicious
4.28 from 25 votes
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Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe

Simple basic and easy recipe for pimento cheese.
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Servings: 1 pound of Pimento Cheese
Calories: 280kcal
Author: Julia Jordan | Julia’s Simply Southern

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

Calories: 280kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 376mg | Sugar: 1g

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

Julia - author and publisher of Julia's Simply Southern Food Blog Recipes

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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4.28 from 25 votes (18 ratings without comment)
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