Let’s talk about a delicious classic: Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese. This creamy, tangy Southern favorite combines sharp cheddar, piquant pimentos, and just the right seasonings for a spread that’s equally at home at a picnic, on a sandwich, or at a cheerful family gathering. It’s the kind of recipe that invites you to linger at the table, savoring every bite and memory it brings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese lies in its unassuming ingredient list. Each component is vital—nothing fussy, but every addition brings its own punch of flavor, color, or irresistible creaminess.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: The backbone of our spread, sharp cheddar brings bold flavor and wonderful texture—be sure to shred it yourself for the best creamy consistency.
- Mayonnaise: Classic Southern mayo is a must for creaminess and tang; use a generous half-cup for that old fashioned richness.
- Diced pimentos: Vibrant, sweet, and a little bit tart, these little red peppers are essential and give the spread its signature hue and zing.
- Garlic powder: Just a pinch adds savory warmth without overpowering the blend.
- Onion powder: Balances the flavors with a gentle, mellow onion note.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): For a slight kick; add it if you like your pimento cheese with a whisper of heat.
- Salt: Enhances every cheesy, creamy, peppery flavor in the bowl.
- Black pepper: Offers a friendly bite and brings out the complexity of the cheeses.
How to Make Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese
Step 1: Shred the Cheese
Grab a block of sharp cheddar cheese and your favorite grater. Freshly shredded cheese not only tastes better, but melts seamlessly into the creamy base, making every bite of Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese rich and luscious. Pre-shredded cheese just can’t compete!
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a medium mixing bowl, combine your shredded cheddar, mayonnaise, and well-drained diced pimentos. Stir everything together until the mixture looks creamy and the pimentos are evenly dotted throughout. This is your moment to really blend those flavors together—the base of every great batch.
Step 3: Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, a touch of cayenne if you’re feeling spicy, and the salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly so you don’t get a surprise bite of any single flavor. If you’re using a hand mixer for a creamier texture, now’s the time!
Step 4: Chill and Meld
Good things come to those who wait: cover the bowl and pop your Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese in the fridge. An hour is ideal—just enough time for the flavors to get acquainted and for the mixture to firm up so it spreads like a dream.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Give your chilled spread a gentle stir before serving to fluff it up. Gather your crackers, veggies, or fresh slices of bread—the party’s about to begin!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese
Garnishes
For a personal touch, top your Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, a few reserved diced pimentos, or a grind of fresh black pepper. Even chopped chives or a dash of smoked paprika add gorgeous color and flavor.
Side Dishes
This classic pairs delightfully with buttery crackers, crunchy celery sticks, or thick cucumber slices. For a lunch or supper plate, serve alongside tomato soup, crisp pickles, or a heap of kettle-cooked chips—every bite sings with familiar flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
While Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese is irresistible as a simple dip or spread, try it on grilled cheese sandwiches for a Southern twist, dolloped on baked potatoes, or even swirled into an omelet. For a real showstopper, spoon it into tiny phyllo cups and bake for easy bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to a week—making it perfect for snacking, last-minute guests, or quick lunches all week long.
Freezing
While you technically can freeze pimento cheese, the texture may become a bit grainy after thawing due to the mayo and cheese. If you do want to freeze it, portion it out in tightly sealed containers and thaw in the fridge before stirring well. For the best creaminess, enjoy it freshly made or refrigerated.
Reheating
Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, but if you’re adding it to recipes like stuffed burgers, baked potatoes, or grilled sandwiches, it will melt beautifully. No need to reheat the spread itself—just let it come to room temp for easy serving.
FAQs
Can I make Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead can even improve the flavor, giving everything extra time to meld. Just store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What’s the difference between homemade and store-bought pimento cheese?
Homemade Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese is a game changer—fresher, creamier, and fully customizable. Store-bought versions can’t match the tang or the love that goes into your own bowl!
Is it okay to substitute cheeses or add extra ingredients?
Definitely. Feel free to swap in a little Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even add a handful of chopped pickles, jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce for a signature spin. Just keep the spirit of Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese alive!
Why does my pimento cheese taste too salty or bland?
If your spread tastes off, check the cheese and mayo you’re using—some brands are saltier than others. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings, adding the salt in small increments until you get it just right.
Can I use a food processor instead of mixing by hand?
You sure can! A food processor will give you a smooth, even spread. For classic texture, pulse gently so the mixture stays a bit chunky—just how Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese should be.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about making and sharing Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese. It’s bright, rich, and truly comforting food—perfect for creating new memories with family and friends. Give it a try, and let this timeless Southern staple become one of your favorites too!
Print
Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese recipe is a classic Southern favorite, perfect for spreading on sandwiches, dipping with crackers, or enjoying with fresh veggies. It’s creamy, tangy, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 oz diced pimentos, drained
Seasonings:
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, mix cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. Add seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until creamy.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
- Serve: Use as a spread, dip, or with veggies.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, use a hand mixer.
- Try substituting cheddar with Monterey Jack or adding hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to one week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
