Southern Pimento Cheese

Ingredients

• 2 cup extra-sharp Cheddar cheese (Shredded; freshly grated from a block is recommended.)
• 8 oz cream cheese (Softened.)
• 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• 4 oz diced pimento (Drained.)
• 1 jalapeño pepper (Seeded and minced; optional according to the body text.)
• 0.25 tsp garlic powder
• 0.25 tsp ground cayenne pepper (Optional according to the body text.)
• 0.25 tsp onion powder
• salt (To taste.)
• black pepper (To taste.)

Steps

1. 1

   Gather all ingredients. Ensure the cream cheese is softened, drain the pimento, and seed and mince the jalapeño.

2. 2

   Place the shredded Cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, drained pimento, minced jalapeño, garlic powder, ground cayenne pepper, and onion powder in a large bowl.

3. 3

   Mix until thoroughly combined. For a large batch, the ingredients may be combined in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment and beaten until smooth and creamy; stop before the pimentos are pulverized.

4. 4

   Season to taste with salt and black pepper.

5. 5

   Enjoy the pimento cheese as a spread with crackers, as a dip, or in sandwiches.

Notes

The recipe yields 3 cups. The body text recommends freshly grating the Cheddar rather than using pre-shredded cheese. Pimento cheese can be frozen for up to three months, although its flavor may change slightly after thawing.

Nutrition per serving

• appetizer
• dip
• spread
• vegetarian
• no-cook
• Southern
• make-ahead
• gluten-free