Southern cuisine is known for its bold flavors and rich, comforting dishes. And one of the most beloved and iconic dishes in the South is pimento cheese. This creamy blend of cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos has been a staple in Southern households for generations. It's the perfect addition to any party or gathering, and today, I'm excited to share with you my favorite southern loving pimento cheese recipe that is sure to become a crowd-pleaser.
Main Ingredients: Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Cream Cheese, Mayonnaise, Cayenne
Pimento cheese is a classic Southern spread made from shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. It's a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be served as a dip, sandwich filling, or even a topping for burgers and hot dogs. Here are 20 delicious variations of this beloved dish that will take your taste buds on a journey through the South!
This traditional recipe is a staple in many Southern households. Made with sharp cheddar cheese, creamy mayonnaise, and tangy pimentos, this pimento cheese is perfect for spreading on crackers or using as a dip for veggies.
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Homemade Pimento Cheese Spread
Main Ingredients: Cream Cheese, Cheddar, Grated Monterey Jack Cheese
Forget the store-bought pimento cheese and make your own with this easy and delicious recipe. Using a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, this spread is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
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Homemade Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Cheddar Cheese, Mayonnaise, Pimentos, Salt, Yellow Onion
If you're looking for a pimento cheese recipe without mayonnaise, this one is for you. Instead of mayo, this recipe uses cream cheese to give the spread its creamy texture. It's perfect for those who don't like the taste of mayonnaise but still want to enjoy the flavors of pimento cheese.
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Pimento Cheese Spread
Main Ingredients: Cream Cheese, Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Colby Jack
This is a classic pimento cheese spread recipe with a twist. It includes the addition of Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, which adds a tangy and savory element to the spread.
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Grandma Lucy’s Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Velveeta R, Pimentos, Mayonnaise
This recipe is a family favorite and has been passed down for generations. It's made with a blend of mild and sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. Serve it on a sandwich or as a dip for an authentic taste of the South.
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Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Cheese, Mayonnaise, Pimento
This pimento cheese recipe takes things up a notch by adding in a few extra ingredients to make it the ultimate Southern spread. Cream cheese, sour cream, and hot sauce give this pimento cheese a creamy and spicy kick.
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Smokehouse Pimento Cheese Ball
Main Ingredients: Cheese, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Worcestershire Sauce, Soy
Take your pimento cheese to the next level by turning it into a cheese ball. This recipe adds in smoked cheddar cheese and bacon for a smoky and savory twist on the classic spread.
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Skinny Jalapeno Pimento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Plain Greek Yogurt, Jalapeno, Pimento, Sharp Cheddar
If you're looking for a healthier version of pimento cheese, this recipe is for you. Greek yogurt and light mayonnaise are used instead of full-fat versions, and jalapenos add a spicy kick to balance out the creamy cheese mixture.
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The Masters Famous Pimento Cheese Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Pimentos, Mayonnaise, Ground Black Pepper, Ground Red
The Masters golf tournament is known for its famous pimento cheese sandwiches, and now you can make them at home. This recipe uses a blend of sharp and mild cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos for a classic and delicious sandwich spread.
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Homemade Pimento Cheese (without cream cheese)
Main Ingredients: Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Mayonnaise, Pimentos
This pimento cheese recipe skips the cream cheese and uses a blend of cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream for a tangy and creamy spread. It's perfect for those who want a traditional pimento cheese without the addition of cream cheese.
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Mama's Pimento Cheese!
Main Ingredients: American Cheese, Miracle Whip, Sugar, Worcestershire
This recipe is straight from Mama's kitchen and is sure to be a hit with your family. It's made with a combination of cheddar and Colby Jack cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. Serve it on sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip.
This recipe is a basic version of pimento cheese that can be used as a starting point for adding in your own twist. It's made with cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences.
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Pimento-Cheese Spread
Main Ingredients: Velveeta, Cheese, Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
This pimento cheese spread recipe adds a bit of heat with the addition of cayenne pepper. It's a great option for those who like a little kick in their pimento cheese.
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Texas Pimento Cheese Spread
Main Ingredients: Mexican Cheese Blend, Velveeta Cheese, Cream Cheese
This Texas-inspired pimento cheese spread is made with a blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheese, mayonnaise, and diced jalapenos. It's the perfect combination of creamy and spicy, and it's sure to be a hit at any gathering.
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Incredible Pimento Cheese Spread
Main Ingredients: Velveeta Cheese, Medium Cheddar Cheese, Sharp Cheddar
This pimento cheese recipe is truly incredible and a must-try for any pimento cheese lover. It uses a blend of cheddar and Swiss cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos for a creamy and flavorful spread.
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Basic Pimiento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, Pimiento, Worcestershire Sauce, Onion
This recipe is a simple and straightforward version of pimento cheese that is perfect for those who prefer a classic and traditional taste. It's made with cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, and it's a great starting point for creating your own unique version of pimento cheese.
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Pimiento Cheese Creamed Spinach
Main Ingredients: Frozen Chopped Spinach, Unsalted Butter, Yellow Onion
This pimento cheese recipe takes a twist and turns it into a delicious and creamy spinach dish. The pimento cheese adds a tangy and cheesy element to the classic creamed spinach recipe.
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Baked Pimiento Cheese Dip
Main Ingredients: Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Turn your pimento cheese into a warm and gooey dip with this recipe. The addition of cream cheese and hot sauce gives this dip a creamy and spicy kick that pairs perfectly with chips or veggies.
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Our Favorite Pimiento Cheese
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, Pimiento, Worcestershire Sauce, Onion
This pimento cheese recipe is a favorite among many and for good reason. It's made with a blend of cheddar and Colby Jack cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos, and it's a crowd-pleaser every time.
Why is Pimento Cheese So Popular in the South?
Pimento cheese has been a beloved dish in the South for over a century. It's said that it originated in New York in the late 19th century, but it quickly became a Southern favorite. The combination of creamy cheese and tangy pimentos is simply irresistible. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a dip, spread, or even as a sandwich filling. And with its simple ingredients, it's easy to make and customize to your liking.
The Key Ingredients for the Perfect Pimento Cheese
To make a delicious southern loving pimento cheese, you'll need just a few key ingredients. First and foremost, you'll need a good quality sharp cheddar cheese. I recommend shredding it yourself instead of buying pre-shredded cheese, as it will result in a creamier texture. Next, you'll need mayonnaise, which helps to bind the cheese and pimentos together. And of course, you can't have pimento cheese without pimentos. These sweet, tangy red peppers add a burst of flavor and color to the dish.
Adding a Personal Touch to Your Pimento Cheese
While the classic pimento cheese recipe is delicious on its own, you can also add your own twist to make it truly unique. Some popular additions include diced jalapenos for a spicy kick, chopped bacon for a smoky flavor, or even diced pickles for some tanginess. Get creative and experiment with different flavors to find your perfect southern loving pimento cheese.
Serving Suggestions for Your Pimento Cheese
Pimento cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. As mentioned before, it makes a great dip for crackers or veggies. You can also spread it on sandwiches, burgers, or even top off a baked potato with it. And for a truly Southern experience, try using it as a filling for grilled cheese sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!
In Conclusion
Pimento cheese is more than just a simple dip or spread. It's a nostalgic and beloved dish that represents the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. With its creamy texture and delicious flavor, it's no wonder why it's become a staple in many Southern households. So the next time you're in the mood for some comfort food, whip up a batch of southern loving pimento cheese and enjoy a taste of the South.
