There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a good pimento cheese spread. This Southern classic has been gracing tables, picnics, and church potlucks for generations – no fancy ingredients required, just pure comfort in every bite.
While trendy chefs across the country have recently “discovered” this humble delicacy, those of us with Southern roots know it’s been perfect all along. My version stays true to the old-school preparation my mother taught me – simple, flavorful, and utterly addictive.
Unlock The Secret to Irresistibly Creamy Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese!
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This old-fashioned pimento cheese recipe is a Southern classic, made with sharp cheddar cheese, creamy mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. Perfect as a spread for sandwiches, a dip for crackers, or even as a topping for burgers and grits. This simple, nostalgic recipe delivers rich flavor and a smooth, slightly chunky texture—just like grandma used to make!
Ingredients
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke’s or Blue Plate)
- 4 oz diced pimentos, drained
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder (or 1 tbsp grated onion)
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for a tangy twist)
Instructions
1️⃣ Grate the Cheese – Using a box grater, shred the sharp cheddar cheese. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.
2️⃣ Mix the Base – In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheese with mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until well incorporated.
3️⃣ Add the Pimentos – Gently fold in the drained diced pimentos. Stir until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4️⃣ Adjust Consistency – If the mixture is too thick, add a little more mayonnaise. Keep in mind that the pimentos release some liquid over time, softening the spread naturally.
5️⃣ Chill and Serve – Let the pimento cheese sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold as a spread or dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: no cooking required
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: old-fashioned pimento cheese recipe, homemade pimento cheese, Southern cheese spread, classic pimento cheese dip, best pimento cheese
Ingredient Notes
Sharp Cheddar Cheese
The foundation of any good pimento cheese is, naturally, the cheese itself. Don’t even think about reaching for pre-shredded cheese from the dairy aisle! Those convenient bags contain anti-caking agents that affect both texture and flavor. Instead, grab a block of quality sharp cheddar and grate it yourself. The few extra minutes this takes will be rewarded tenfold in the final product. The sharper the cheddar, the more character your pimento cheese will have.
Mayonnaise
I won’t wade too deeply into the mayo wars that can divide Southern kitchens, but I will say this: choose wisely. Duke’s and Blue Plate are my go-to brands for their tangy profiles that complement the cheese perfectly. Whatever you do, select a full-fat, quality mayonnaise – this isn’t the place to cut corners with light versions or substitutes.
Cayenne Pepper
This might seem like a tiny addition, but that pinch of cayenne brings essential warmth and depth to the spread. Even if you’re heat-averse, I recommend including at least a small amount – it won’t make the cheese spicy so much as round out the flavor profile. Those red specks of cayenne dancing among the orange cheese and red pimentos create a visual delight as well.
The Rich History of Pimento Cheese
The story of pimento cheese begins not in the South but in New York state around 1910. Cream cheese and canned pimentos were first combined into a spread there. The concept quickly migrated southward, where it transformed into a regional specialty.
By the 1920s, Southern factories began producing pimento cheese and packaging it for local markets and country stores. These early commercial versions made it an affordable working-class staple. As manufacturing jobs grew in the South, factory workers packed pimento cheese sandwiches in their lunchboxes. It was cheap, satisfying, and lasted for hours without refrigeration. Home cooks soon created their own versions, adding personal touches based on family traditions.
During the Great Depression, its low cost made it even more popular. Over time, a simple combination of ingredients became a cultural touchstone, enjoyed across all social and economic backgrounds. Today, pimento cheese has found its way into upscale restaurants and artisanal markets. Yet, its heart remains in home kitchens and community gatherings. Whether served on fine china at a garden party or wrapped in wax paper at a construction site, its charm is timeless.
How to Make Pimento Cheese
Creating this classic couldn’t be simpler, yet following the proper technique makes all the difference between a mediocre spread and one that disappears within minutes at any gathering.
Start by grating your block of sharp cheddar cheese using the large holes of a box grater. You can also use a food processor with the shredding attachment if you’re making a larger batch, though hand-grating gives you more control over the texture. Some pimento cheese aficionados even prefer to hand-shred the cheese by pulling it apart, which creates those distinctive, irregular strands that hold the spread together.
Next, combine your freshly grated cheese with the mayonnaise, a touch of grated onion (if using), your seasonings, and any other additions like garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently but thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated. The consistency should be thick but spreadable – remember, you can always add more mayonnaise later if needed.
Only after these ingredients are well combined should you fold in the drained pimentos. This prevents the bright red pieces from breaking down too much and losing their distinctive appearance in the final product. One crucial tip: don’t rush to add extra mayonnaise right away. The liquid from the pimentos will naturally thin your mixture slightly as it sits, so give it some time before adjusting.
Ways to Use Pimento Cheese
While a simple pimento cheese sandwich on white bread might be the most traditional serving method, this versatile spread offers countless possibilities:
The classic approach involves serving it cold as a dip or spread with buttery crackers or celery sticks – perfect for casual gatherings or afternoon snacks. The crisp vegetables provide the perfect counterpoint to the rich, creamy cheese.
For an elevated appetizer that disappears within minutes at parties, spoon the mixture into phyllo shells, top with a small piece of crispy bacon, and warm briefly in the oven. The contrast of textures – creamy cheese, flaky pastry, and crunchy bacon – creates an irresistible bite.
Beyond Sandwiches: Pimento Cheese in Southern Cooking
Southern cooks know that pimento cheese can transform ordinary grits into something extraordinary. Stir a generous spoonful into hot grits, especially when serving alongside seafood or chicken, for a flavor-packed side dish that might just steal the show.
Burgers reach new heights when stuffed with pimento cheese. The molten center that emerges with the first bite turns an ordinary cookout into something memorable. Stuffed burger sliders make perfect party fare that guests will talk about long afterward.
Bakers might appreciate folding pimento cheese into biscuit dough before baking. The pockets of melted cheese and pimentos create a savory breakfast or brunch option that pairs beautifully with ham or a simple green salad.
And of course, there’s the iconic pimento cheese sandwich – traditionally served unadorned between two slices of white bread. No lettuce, no tomato, no distractions – just pure pimento cheese goodness. Some purists even remove the crusts for the full Southern tea sandwich experience.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Pimento Cheese
Pimento cheese is incredibly versatile, making it the perfect addition to many dishes beyond just sandwiches and crackers. If you love Southern flavors, try pairing your old-fashioned pimento cheese recipe with Southern BBQ cheese recipes for a smoky, cheesy twist that’s perfect for cookouts.
For a fun party appetizer, spread some pimento cheese on cheddar pretzels—the salty crunch complements the creamy cheese perfectly. If you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal, mix pimento cheese into your favorite mac and cheese recipe for an extra layer of richness.
Want to take your sandwiches up a notch? Use crusty Italian bread instead of plain white bread for a gourmet pimento cheese toast. Or, create mini pimento cheese croissants using this mini croissant sandwiches guide—perfect for brunch or tea parties.
For a unique health-conscious twist, pair your pimento cheese snacks with an herbal tea featuring lemon balm, known for its digestion-boosting and weight-loss benefits. This combination balances indulgence with wellness, making it a great choice for mindful eaters.
By experimenting with these delicious ideas, you’ll discover just how adaptable and exciting pimento cheese can be in your kitchen!
Regional Variations and Personal Touches
Like any beloved recipe with deep cultural roots, an old-fashioned pimento cheese recipe has developed distinct regional variations across the South, each with passionate defenders. In the Carolinas, you’ll find versions that incorporate a splash of bourbon for depth or a spoonful of pickle relish for tanginess.
Move toward Georgia and Florida, and you might encounter an old-fashioned pimento cheese recipe brightened with a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce for livelier flavor.
Alabama and Mississippi cooks sometimes add a hint of sugar to balance the sharpness of the cheese, creating a slightly sweeter profile. In Louisiana, the Cajun influence shows up in versions spiked with cayenne and garlic. Some Tennessee families swear by their heirloom old-fashioned pimento cheese recipe, including secret ingredients like crushed pineapple or finely chopped pecans.
The debate over texture is equally spirited – some prefer a perfectly smooth, almost whipped consistency, while others insist on a chunkier spread with identifiable pieces of cheese. Even the type of pimentos used can spark discussion, with roasted red peppers increasingly substituted in contemporary interpretations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pimento Cheese Served Hot or Cold?
While pimento cheese is traditionally served cold as a spread or sandwich filling, it’s equally delicious when melted. Try it in grilled cheese sandwiches, melted over burgers, or as a warm dip during cooler months. Its versatility is part of its enduring charm.
How Can I Prevent Pimento Cheese Sandwiches from Getting Soggy?
The key is timing. Prepare your sandwiches the same day you plan to serve them. If packing for a picnic or lunch, consider bringing the bread and spread separately and assembling just before eating. Some folks also lightly toast the bread to create a moisture barrier.
How Long Does Homemade Pimento Cheese Last?
When properly refrigerated in an airtight container, your homemade pimento cheese will stay fresh for up to 10 days. The flavors actually meld and improve after a day or two, making this an ideal make-ahead option for entertaining.
When properly refrigerated in an airtight container, your homemade pimento cheese will stay fresh for up to 10 days. Learn more about proper food storage guidelines from the FDA.”
Making Pimento Cheese Work for Modern Dietary Needs
While traditional pimento cheese remains beloved, the modern era of specialized diets has opened new possibilities, for adapting this classic spread without sacrificing its essential character.
For those monitoring cholesterol or seeking lighter options, reduced-fat sharp cheddar can substitute for full-fat versions with surprisingly good results, especially when balanced with a high-quality mayonnaise to maintain creaminess.
Vegan adaptations have become increasingly sophisticated, using plant-based cheese alternatives that mimic the tanginess and meltability of traditional cheddar. Nutritional yeast often plays a supporting role in these versions, bolstering the cheesy flavor profile. For those avoiding nightshades, roasted carrots can stand in for pimentos, providing similar sweetness and visual appeal without the botanical connection to peppers. Keto enthusiasts appreciate that traditional pimento cheese is naturally low-carb when served with vegetable dippers instead of crackers or bread.
This humble cheese spread has weathered changing food trends and remained beloved for generations because of its perfect simplicity. Whether you’re experiencing pimento cheese for the first time or reconnecting with a childhood favorite, this recipe delivers that authentic, old-fashioned taste that has made it a Southern staple.
The beauty lies in its adaptability – make it your own with subtle variations, but always respect the basic formula that has stood the test of time.