Southern Pimento Cheese Spread

spicy pimento cheese in a bowl with cracker and celery stickls

Pimento cheese spread is a creamy, tangy Southern dish that’s quick and easy to make. Blended with cheddar, cream cheese, mayo, pimentos, and spicy jalapenos, this spread is perfect for parties or everyday snacking. Serve it with crackers or veggies for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Cuisine American

Prep Time 12

Total Time 12

Servings 1/4 cup

Calories 158

Author Gina Dickson

Ingredients

1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese grated
1/2 cup pepper jack cheese grated
4 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
1/4 cup mayonnaise I like to use Dukes
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 ounce pimentos diced in a jar, drained
3 tablespoons pickled jalapenos Chopped into small piece. Depending on how spicy you want it, you can add more or less.
Salt to taste

Instructions

Combine the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and mayonnaise in a mixing bowl. Stir until well combined.
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup pepper jack cheese, 4 ounces cream cheese
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and black pepper to the mixing bowl.
1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Stir until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
Add the diced pimentos and small diced pieces of jalapeno pepper into the mixing bowl. Stir until well combined.
4 ounce pimentos, 3 tablespoons pickled jalapenos
Taste the pimento cheese and add salt as needed to achieve the desired saltiness.
Salt
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

Important Prep Tips Before Starting the Recipe:

Let your cream cheese come to room temperature so it blends easily.
Shred your cheese from a block for the best texture and flavor.
Use a screen colander to drain your pimentos well.

Dietary Modifications: Use vegan mayo and dairy-free cheeses to make it dairy-free.

Flavor Enhancements: Try adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a spoonful of Dijon mustard for an extra punch of flavor that adds depth without overwhelming heat.

Add-In Options: Diced pickles, crispy bacon, or chopped olives.

Simple Substitutions: Swap pepper jack with Colby jack for a milder flavor.

Tips for Recipe Success: Let the spread sit at room temp 10 minutes before serving for best consistency. For easy entertaining, make this spread up to two days in advance.

Nutrition