15 Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 30, 2024
One of the most beloved and iconic dishes in the Southern United States is pimento cheese. This creamy, tangy spread has been a staple in Southern households for generations, and for good reason. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos creates a rich and indulgent flavor that pairs perfectly with crackers, sandwiches, and vegetables. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history of this classic dish and share a professional and well-organized recipe for you to try at home. Get ready to add a touch of Southern comfort to your next gathering with this traditional pimento cheese recipe.
Southern pimento cheese is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by many for generations. This creamy, tangy spread is made with a combination of cheddar cheese, pimentos, and mayonnaise, and is often served as a dip or spread for crackers or sandwiches. The key to a delicious pimento cheese is using high-quality ingredients and adding just the right amount of spice and seasonings to give it that extra kick. Here are 20 mouth-watering recipes for you to try at home.
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Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Cheese, Mayonnaise, Pimento
If you're a fan of spicy food, then this ultimate Southern pimento cheese recipe is perfect for you. It combines the classic flavors of pimento cheese with a dash of hot sauce and diced jalapenos for an extra kick. The result is a creamy and slightly spicy spread that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Serve it with crackers or use it as a topping for burgers or sandwiches for a delicious twist on a classic dish.
This Southern pimento cheese spread recipe is the perfect blend of creamy and tangy flavors. Made with sharp cheddar cheese, pimentos, and a hint of cayenne pepper, this spread is perfect for parties and gatherings. Serve it with crackers or use it as a filling for sandwiches for a quick and easy meal. You can also customize the heat level by adding more or less cayenne pepper, depending on your personal preference.
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Southern Hot Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Cheddar, Pepper Jack Cheese, Dukes Mayonnaise, Pimento
For those who love a little heat, this Southern hot pimento cheese recipe is a must-try. This version of the classic spread adds a spicy twist by using pepper jack cheese and adding diced jalapenos. The result is a creamy and spicy spread that is perfect for dipping or spreading on sandwiches. Serve it at your next party and watch it disappear in no time.
Looking for a crowd-pleasing dip? This Southern pimento cheese dip is sure to be a hit. Made with a combination of cheddar and cream cheese, pimentos, and a touch of garlic powder, this dip is full of flavor and pairs perfectly with chips, crackers, or veggies. It's quick and easy to make, making it the perfect appetizer for any occasion.
This Southern style pimento cheese recipe is a classic and simple version of the beloved spread. Made with cheddar cheese, pimentos, and mayonnaise, this recipe is a great base for adding your own personal touch. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or mix in some diced bacon for a savory twist. The possibilities are endless with this versatile recipe.
This Southern pimento cheese sandwich is a classic and delicious lunch option. Made with the traditional spread, this sandwich also includes crisp bacon and fresh lettuce for added flavor and texture. It's quick and easy to make and is perfect for a weekday lunch or a picnic in the park. Serve with a side of chips and enjoy the taste of the South in every bite.
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Southern Caviar - Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Cream Cheese, Mayonnaise, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Jack
This Southern caviar pimento cheese recipe is a fun twist on the classic spread. It's made with all the traditional ingredients, but also includes black-eyed peas and diced bell peppers for added texture and flavor. This dish is perfect for parties and gatherings and is sure to be a hit with guests. Serve it with crackers or use it as a topping for crostini for a tasty appetizer.
Main Ingredients: Cream Cheese, Shredded Sharp Cheddar, Monterey Jack
Who doesn't love a good grilled cheese sandwich? This Southern style pimento cheese grilled cheese sandwich takes a classic dish to the next level. Made with a generous spread of pimento cheese and a slice of juicy tomato, this sandwich is sure to satisfy any craving. Grill it up in a pan or on a panini press for a warm and gooey treat.
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Southern-Style Pimento Cheese Dip
Main Ingredients: Cheddar Cheese, Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese
This Southern-style pimento cheese dip is perfect for those who love a little heat. Made with a combination of cheddar and pepper jack cheese, pimentos, and diced jalapenos, this dip is full of flavor and spice. Serve it with chips, crackers, or veggies for a delicious and addictive appetizer. You can also use it as a topping for loaded nachos for a Southern twist on a classic dish.
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Southern Style Jalapeno Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Shredded Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Shredded Sharp
This Southern style jalapeno pimento cheese recipe is perfect for those who love a little heat in their food. Made with a combination of cheddar and pepper jack cheese, diced jalapenos, and a splash of hot sauce, this spread is bursting with flavor. Use it as a dip or spread on sandwiches for a delicious and spicy meal.
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Southern Pimento Cheese (aka Carolina Caviar)
Main Ingredients: Pimento, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Mayonnaise
This Southern pimento cheese recipe, also known as Carolina caviar, is a twist on the classic spread. It's made with all the traditional ingredients, but also includes black-eyed peas, diced bell peppers, and corn for added texture and flavor. This dish is perfect for parties and gatherings and is sure to be a hit with guests. Serve it with crackers or use it as a topping for crostini for a tasty appetizer.
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Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Mayonnaise, Hot Sauce, Cayenne
This pimento cheese recipe is a classic and simple version of the beloved spread. Made with cheddar cheese, pimentos, and mayonnaise, this recipe is a great base for adding your own personal touch. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or mix in some diced bacon for a savory twist. The possibilities are endless with this versatile recipe.
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Southern Potato Salad with Bacon and Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Thick Cut Bacon, Mayo, Red Wine Vinegar
This Southern potato salad with bacon and pimento cheese is a delicious and unique twist on the classic dish. It's made with creamy pimento cheese, crispy bacon, and diced red potatoes for added texture and flavor. Serve it at your next BBQ or picnic and watch it disappear in no time.
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Pimento Cheese Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Cornmeal, All Purpose Flour, Baking
This pimento cheese cornbread recipe is a delicious and unexpected combination of two Southern favorites. The addition of pimento cheese adds a creamy and tangy element to the classic cornbread, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. Serve it warm with a spread of butter for a comforting and tasty treat.
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Homemade Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Cream Cheese, Mayonnaise, Cayenne
If you've never made your own pimento cheese before, then this homemade pimento cheese recipe is a must-try. It's simple and easy to make with just a few ingredients, but the result is a creamy and flavorful spread that is perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite spices and seasonings for a personalized touch.
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Pimento Cheese Grits
Main Ingredients: Stone Ground Grits, Salt, Water, Butter, Ground Black
This pimento cheese grits recipe is a delicious and unexpected twist on the classic Southern dish. The creamy and tangy flavors of pimento cheese pair perfectly with the hearty and comforting grits. Serve it as a side dish or add some crispy bacon for a satisfying breakfast option.
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Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Garlic Clove, Pimentos, Brine, Mayonnaise
These pimento cheese deviled eggs are a unique and delicious twist on a classic party favorite. The addition of pimento cheese adds a creamy and tangy element to the traditional deviled eggs. These are perfect for any gathering or as a tasty snack. Top them with a sprinkle of paprika for an extra burst of flavor.
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Pimento Cheese Fried Chicken Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, All Purpose Flour, Kosher Salt, Paprika
This pimento cheese fried chicken sandwich is a flavorful and indulgent meal that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy fried chicken, creamy pimento cheese, and fresh lettuce and tomato makes for a delicious and satisfying sandwich. Serve it with a side of fries or chips for a complete meal.
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Quick Southern Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Sharp Cheddar Cheese, White Cheddar Cheese, Cream
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy the delicious flavors of pimento cheese, then this quick Southern pimento cheese recipe is for you. It's made with just a few ingredients and can be whipped up in no time. Spread it on crackers or use it as a filling for sandwiches for a tasty snack or meal.
The Origins of Pimento Cheese
Pimento cheese has a long and storied history in the Southern United States. The dish is said to have originated in the early 1900s, when cream cheese was becoming popular and pimentos, a type of sweet pepper, were being canned and widely distributed. The first known recipe for pimento cheese was published in 1912 in a cookbook called "The Kenilworth Cook Book" from Asheville, North Carolina. However, it wasn't until the 1920s that pimento cheese became a household staple, thanks to the rise of mass-produced mayonnaise and the convenience of pre-shredded cheese.
The Perfect Blend of Ingredients
The key to a delicious pimento cheese is using high-quality ingredients. The star of the dish is, of course, the cheese. Sharp cheddar is the most commonly used, but some recipes also call for a mix of cheddar and cream cheese for an even creamier texture. The mayonnaise adds richness and a tangy flavor, while the diced pimentos bring a touch of sweetness and a pop of color to the spread. Some recipes also include other flavorings such as Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, or spices like paprika and garlic powder.
Making Your Own Pimento Cheese
Now, let's get to the fun part – making your own pimento cheese! The first step is to grate your cheese or cheeses of choice. Next, mix in the mayonnaise and diced pimentos until well combined. You can adjust the amount of mayo to your desired consistency – some prefer a thick spread, while others like it more creamy. For an extra kick of flavor, add in any additional ingredients mentioned above. Finally, let the mixture chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to firm up.
If you're feeling creative, there are endless variations you can try with this classic recipe. Add in some diced jalapeños for a spicy twist, or mix in some crumbled bacon for added smokiness. Serve your pimento cheese with crackers, spread it on a sandwich, or use it as a dip for veggies – the possibilities are endless!
In Conclusion...
Pimento cheese is more than just a simple spread – it's a taste of Southern hospitality and a way to bring people together. With its rich history and versatile flavors, it's no wonder this dish has stood the test of time. Now that you have a professional and well-organized recipe, it's time to gather your ingredients and start mixing up a batch of this beloved Southern classic. Trust us, once you try homemade pimento cheese, you'll never go back to the store-bought version again.
