Pimento Cheese is such a simple recipe that is perfect to use as a dip or as a spread. It comes together easily and will be devoured quickly!
If you are looking for something super easy to bring to a party, you really can’t beat this homemade pimento cheese recipe. It is so fast to make, and so delicious. It has the great taste of extra sharp cheddar cheese and pimento with just the slightest kick. You will love this with veggies or as a spread for a sandwich.
Pimento Cheese Ingredients
Just a few simple ingredients combine in this creamy, tangy, and oh so delicious pimento cheese recipe. For the full list of ingredients and measurements, see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Cream cheese: Buy a block of name-brand cream cheese (like Philadelphia), and let it soften at room temperature so it will blend smoothly with the other ingredients. Just let it sit out on the counter for 30 minutes to slightly soften.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: The flavor of cheese that is grated from a block is so much fresher and more vibrant than the bag of pre-shredded cheese. I recommend buying a block of sharp cheddar and shredding it yourself.
- Mayo: I prefer light mayo; it cuts down slightly on the fat in this recipe without affecting the flavor.
- Pimentos: Look for a small jar of pimentos (what you find in the middle of green olives) near the pickles and olives in the grocery store.
- Seasonings: Cayenne pepper adds the perfect kick (add more if you want a spicier pimento cheese). Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder enhance and balance the flavors of the other ingredients while keeping the pimento cheese savory and delicious.
How to Make Pimento Cheese
This recipe is as simple as adding everything to a bowl and mixing it together. To see the full list of ingredients, measurements, and all instructions, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
How to Use Pimento Cheese
- As a dip: This is great with crackers and cut-up vegetables.
- As a mix-in: Readers have used this mixed into all sorts of things, from mashed potatoes to scrambled eggs.
- In a sandwich: Add it to a sandwich with other ingredients, use it on its own in a pimento cheese sandwich, or make a grilled cheese sandwich with it.
- On a burger: Spread some on your burger bun for the perfect condiment.
Storing Pimento Cheese Dip
Keep this dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Throw away any dip that sits out at room temperature for two hours.
If you make this recipe for Pimento Cheese or any of my other recipes, I’d love to hear how you enjoyed it! Leave a comment below letting me know.
Pimento Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese room temperature
- 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
- 4 ounces diced pimento drained (see note 1)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt or dash table salt
- dash black pepper
Instructions
- Combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl. Use a hand mixer to blend the ingredients together.
- Taste and add more cayenne powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve with crackers and vegetables.
Notes
Linda says
My mom used to buy pimento olive cheese in a glass. I believe it was made by Kraft. Do you think I could make this dip with green olives and use them as the pimento also?
Yes, I think that would work!