Homemade Pimento Cheese Recipe

This Homemade Pimento Cheese recipe is the kind of quick, zesty, creamy spread you just can’t help making over and over again. Whether you’re prepping a last-minute snack for unexpected guests or looking for that perfect game-day appetizer, this Southern classic is always a hit. It’s easy to throw together in literally minutes, packed with bold cheddar flavor and rich creaminess, and incredibly versatile—for dipping, spreading, or even stuffing into sandwiches. If you love tangy, cheesy bites with a hint of sweetness and the right touch of spice, this is your new go-to recipe for busy weeknights, parties, and everything in between.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Faster Than Fast Food: You can whip up this entire recipe in about 10 minutes. There’s barely any prep, and it tastes even better than anything store-bought.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Not only does it hold up beautifully in the fridge, but the flavors actually get better as it sits.
• Crowd-Pleaser: There’s just something about this classic—nobody can resist going back for another scoop.
• Ultimate Versatility: Serve it as a dip, spread it on sandwiches, toast, or stuff it into celery sticks. The options are endless.
• Customizable: Tweak the heat, swap cheeses, or add fun extras based on what you have on hand.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these star ingredients for the creamiest, most flavorful homemade pimento cheese:

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The backbone of pimento cheese. Use sharp for big, bold flavor, and grate it fresh for a melty texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds an irresistible nutty, salty bite—make sure it’s freshly grated (skip the green can!).
• Cream Cheese: Gives the spread its signature smoothness—let it come to room temperature so it blends easily.
• Mayonnaise: Binds everything together and brings a tangy, Southern touch. Duke’s or Blue Plate are non-negotiable for that old-school flavor!
• Pimiento Peppers: These give the spread its sweet, mild pop of color and gentle acidity. Drain and rinse them first.
• Onion Powder: Adds a subtle savory depth without overpowering.
• Cayenne Pepper: Just a bit to bring a gentle warmth and lift all the flavors.
• Black Pepper: Adds classic seasoning and a gentle kick.
• For Serving: Crackers, mini pretzel twists, or tortilla chips make fantastic dippers. Don’t overlook fresh veggies like celery or carrot sticks.

Tip: Cold cheese is easier to grate, and make sure your cream cheese is soft for easy blending.

Variations

There are endless ways to put your own spin on pimento cheese! Here are several ideas to get your creativity flowing:

• Spicy Southwest: Add a finely diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for some extra heat.
• Cheese Swap: Use half cheddar, half pepper jack or Colby for a fun change in flavor and color.
• Onion Boost: Stir in some finely chopped green onions or chives for a fresh, herby note.
• Bacon Lovers: Mix in a handful of crispy bacon crumbles for an over-the-top treat.
• Light & Lemony: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the spread (surprisingly delicious with sharp cheese!).

How to Make Homemade Pimento Cheese

Step 1: Grate the Cheeses

Grab your food processor or a box grater—freshly grated cheese melts smoother and makes a world of difference. Grate the sharp cheddar and finely grate the parmesan so everything blends evenly.

Step 2: Blend Ingredients

Add the grated cheddar, parmesan, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, drained pimientos, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper into the bowl of a stand mixer (or use a hand mixer or sturdy spoon if that’s what you have). Mix on medium for about 2 minutes, until smooth, creamy, and a little fluffy.

Step 3: Chill and Let Flavors Meld

Don’t skip the chilling! Transfer the pimento cheese mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least two hours. This step really helps the flavors come together for that classic homemade taste.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Let the pimento cheese sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving—this makes it spreadable and extra luscious. Serve with your favorite crackers, pretzel twists, or tortilla chips.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese is coated with anti-caking agents that make the spread less creamy. Do yourself a favor and grate it fresh.
• Soften the Cream Cheese: Let it hang out on the counter for optimum mixing—no arm workout (or clumps!) required.
• Chill First—Serve at Room Temp: This sounds counterintuitive, but chilling blends the flavors, while serving at room temp makes it silky and scoopable.
• Taste and Adjust: Add extra cayenne for more heat, or a touch more mayo if you want a looser spread. Make it your own every time.

Note: This spread gets even better after a night in the fridge—perfect for prepping ahead.

How to Serve

Homemade pimento cheese is the MVP of snack spreads. Here are some scrumptious and creative serving ideas:

• Cracker & Pretzel Board: Pile up your favorite crackers, mini pretzel twists, and chips for an irresistible party tray.
• Sandwiches: Spread thick on soft white bread for classic Southern pimento cheese sandwiches (crustless is tradition!), or try grilled cheese style for a gooey update.
• Veggie Dippers: Serve with crisp celery, cucumber slices, or pepper strips for a refreshing crunch.
• Burgers & Wraps: Dollop onto burgers, sliders, or inside wraps for a flavor bomb.
• Baked Potatoes: Top your spuds with a generous scoop for the tastiest upgrade.

Pair with: Sweet tea, cold beer, or a sparkling lemonade—absolute perfection.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 10 days—perfect for nibbling all week long.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze pimento cheese! Portion into small, freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, and give it a good stir.

Reheating

Pimento cheese is best served cold or at room temperature. If you want it melty (say, for baked dip or grilled sandwiches), just pop it in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or spread it on bread before toasting.

FAQs

Can I make pimento cheese without cream cheese?
Absolutely! While cream cheese adds a creamy texture, you can leave it out for a firmer, more rustic spread. Just add a little more mayo if needed.

Which mayonnaise is best for pimento cheese?
Duke’s or Blue Plate are hands-down the best choices for that authentic Southern tang. But if all you have is a different brand, it will still be delicious—just try not to use a sweet mayo.

How do I fix pimento cheese that’s too thick or too thin?
If it’s too thick, stir in extra mayo a tablespoon at a time. If it seems too thin, add more grated cheese until you reach your perfect consistency.

Can I use other kinds of peppers instead of pimientos?
Of course! Roasted red peppers are a great substitute. You can even use a mix of pimientos and diced jalapeños for heat.

Final Thoughts

Homemade pimento cheese is a true gem—simple, speedy, endlessly flexible, and downright addictive. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself, this recipe promises flavor and comfort with barely any effort. Just follow the easy steps, have fun experimenting with add-ins, and enjoy every creamy, tangy, cheesy bite. Give it a try—this Southern classic will become a staple in your kitchen in no time!

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