Easy but Delicious Cheesy Sandwich Spread

This southern style pimento cheese is a classic staple that brings a creamy, tangy, and sometimes spicy kick to any table. Made with sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, and a touch of seasoning, this versatile spread is perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or even as a dip. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving comfort food, this homemade pimento cheese recipe delivers rich flavor with a nostalgic taste of the South.

Ingredients

Obviously, you can put any add-ons you want in the pimento cheese. But some basic ingredients are essential.

Here are the things you’ll need:

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby, or jack)
• 1/4 cup chopped pimentos
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (more if you prefer an extra creamy spread)
• 1/2 cup whipped cream cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños (optional)

Additional Pimento Cheese “Secret Ingredients”

You can add other ingredients to make this recipe your own. Hands down, my favorite add-on is chopped jalapeno peppers. Here are some of the other things I’ve tried:

• Black olives and green olives (good but not great)
• Onions (our least favorite)
• Cinnamon and nutmeg (whole different taste)
• Diced green peppers (good)
• Red bell peppers, either diced or cut into strips
• Tomatoes (caused the mixture to turn to liquid and separate)
• Crumbled bacon (delicious and our second favorite)
• Ground cayenne pepper

Directions

I always start with any kind of shredded cheese I have on hand. For this one, I used Colby jack. Most of the time, I use sharp cheddar. I’ve tried mozzarella, but it’s a tad too bland for pimento cheese. Although I purchased diced pimentos this time, I have bought whole pimentos and chopped them myself.

If you want to use cream cheese, add it now. I typically prefer the whipped version because it’s easier to stir than the one that comes in a block.

Next, stir in some mayonnaise. I specifically used Duke’s brand. I like equal amounts of mayonnaise and cream cheese. However if you want a creamier texture, go a little heavier on the mayo. As I mentioned earlier, you can also leave out the cream cheese if you prefer.

After you have everything mixed, taste it to determine if it needs anything else. Some people prefer adding salt and pepper, while others like the taste of Worcestershire. It’s your pimento cheese, so make it like you want it. And don’t be afraid to experiment.

What to Serve with Pimento Cheese

Like most people I enjoy the traditional lunch of soup and a pimento cheese sandwich. My homemade bean soup and the vegetable soup both make great accompaniments to a southern style pimento cheese sandwich.

This sandwich also goes well with salads, like this super yummy chickpea salad or this scrumptious Mediterranean salad.

How to Eat Southern Style Pimento Cheese

Most of the time, my husband and I eat pimento cheese between two slices of bread. However, it also makes a delicious spread on crackers and dip for chips. You can also stuff celery or any other raw vegetable with it.

Or—sshh, don’t tell anyone—I sometimes eat it right out of the container. With a spoon. Yeah, I’m bad like that.

In the past, I’ve enjoyed pimento cheese on southern style cornbread. Or if you like a sweeter cornbread, try this extra-moist Jiffy cornbread from Back to My Southern Roots.

Pimento Cheese Addiction

Once you try pimento cheese, don’t be surprised if you become addicted to it. There’s a reason the Masters Golf Tournament has named it their official sandwich. It’s absolutely delicious!

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