Pimento Cheese

Ingredients

• 227 g (8 oz)cheddar cheese, shredded
• 113 g (4 oz)cream cheese, softened
• 120 ml (½ cup)mayonnaise
• 113 g (4 oz)jarred pimentos, drained and finely chopped
• 2.5 ml (½ teaspoon)garlic powder
• 1.25 ml (¼ teaspoon)onion powder
• 1.25 ml (¼ teaspoon)cayenne pepper
• To tastesalt and pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix the base

   In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder and cayenne pepper. Beat until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.

2. 2

   Fold in cheese

   Add the shredded cheddar and chopped pimentos. Fold and mix until they are distributed throughout the creamy base.

3. 3

   Season to taste

   Taste the mixture, then add salt and pepper as needed.

4. 4

   Chill the spread

   For the best flavour, cover the bowl and refrigerate the spread for at least 1 hour before serving. This is optional, but gives the flavours time to come together.

5. 5

   Serve the spread

   Serve with crackers, spread it in sandwiches or offer it as a dip for vegetables.

What is pimento cheese?

Pimento cheese is a savoury spread associated with American cooking, particularly the South. Its familiar combination of cheddar, pimentos and a creamy binder makes it easy to scoop, spread or serve as a dip.

This version balances sharp, savoury cheddar with mild cream cheese and sweet pimentos. A little garlic, onion and cayenne adds seasoning without obscuring the cheese.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 265 calories, 8g protein, 3g carbs, 25g fat.

Most of the carbohydrates come from the small amount in the dairy and pimentos, while the cheddar and cream cheese contribute protein. Mayonnaise, cheese and cream cheese provide most of the fat. Serve a measured portion with crunchy vegetables or fruit alongside for a more balanced plate.

Choosing the cheese

Cheddar: Shredded cheddar supplies the main cheesy flavour and gives the spread its texture. For a more pronounced taste, choose a mature cheddar; a milder one will make a gentler spread.

Cream cheese: Let it soften before mixing so it blends smoothly with the mayonnaise. If it is cold and firm, it can leave small lumps in the base.

Getting a smooth base

Creamy mixture: Beat the cream cheese, mayonnaise and seasonings together before adding the other ingredients. This helps distribute the powdered seasonings evenly.

Fold gently: Mix the cheddar and pimentos in once the base is smooth. Stop when they are well incorporated so the spread keeps some texture.

Managing the pimentos

Drain well: Excess liquid from the jar can make the spread loose, so drain the pimentos before chopping them.

Chop finely: Small pieces are easier to mix through the cheese and make the spread simpler to scoop onto crackers or bread.

Why chilling helps

The recipe gives a total time of 70 minutes and recommends at least 1 hour of chilling, though that step is optional. Cover the bowl while it rests in the fridge.

The spread will be firmer when cold and softer after a short time at room temperature. Stir it before serving if it has settled.

Ways to serve it

For a snack or starter, put the spread out with crackers and cut vegetables. Choose sturdy dippers that can hold a generous scoop.

For sandwiches, spread it over bread and pair it with crisp salad leaves or sliced vegetables. It can also be served as a dip alongside a simple lunch.

Recipe notes & tips

• Soften the cream cheese before mixing to make the base easier to beat smooth.
• Drain the pimentos thoroughly so their jar liquid does not loosen the spread.
• Taste before adding salt, since cheddar and mayonnaise can already be salty.
• Chill the spread covered for at least 1 hour if you have time.
• Let a very firm spread sit briefly at room temperature, then stir before serving.

Variations

• More heat: Increase the cayenne a little at a time and taste as you go.
• Smoky note: Use a small amount of smoked paprika in place of some of the cayenne.
• Extra crunch: Fold in finely chopped celery just before serving.
• Herby finish: Stir through finely chopped chives for a fresh savoury note.
• Sandwich filling: Spread it between bread with crisp lettuce or sliced tomato.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Cold cream cheese: It can leave lumps in the base; soften it before beating.
• Wet pimentos: Their liquid can make the mixture runny; drain them well before chopping.
• Overmixing: The spread can lose its texture; fold in the cheddar and pimentos just until combined.
• Over-seasoning early: Cheddar and mayonnaise vary in saltiness; taste the finished mixture before adding more.
• Skipping the cover: The spread can pick up fridge odours; cover the bowl while chilling.

How to store

Keep the spread covered in an airtight container in the fridge and use within 3–4 days. Stir before serving; it is usually best served cold or slightly softened rather than heated.

Frequently asked questions