In the realm of Southern cuisine, pimento cheese reigns supreme as a beloved and versatile spread. This iconic dish, often referred to as the "caviar of the South," is a delectable blend of sharp cheddar cheese, creamy mayonnaise, tangy pimentos, and a hint of spice. Its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, where it was a staple at social gatherings and picnics. Today, pimento cheese continues to captivate taste buds, whether served as a dip with crackers, slathered on sandwiches, or stuffed into celery sticks. This article presents a collection of pimento cheese recipes, each offering unique variations on this classic Southern delight. From a basic yet flavorful rendition to a kicked-up version with jalapeños, these recipes cater to diverse palates and preferences. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the timeless charm of pimento cheese, a true Southern treasure.
Here are our top 7 tried and tested recipes!
OUR FAVORITE PIMENTO CHEESE
One of the first dishes Southern cooks master is homemade pimento cheese. Every hostess may have her own special twist on the classic party dish, but this version will never let you down. Our best pimento cheese recipe gets a signature crunch from toasted pecans and a dash of heat from ground red pepper. Blended together with creamy mayonnaise and sharp Cheddar cheese, it's a combination that keeps guests coming back for seconds. Pimiento cheese dip may be an easy appetizer for entertaining, but there's just one way to mess up the recipe: pre-shredded cheese. In a dish this simple, texture is important. The time you take to pull out your box grater and shred by hand will pay off in taste. Can't wait for your next gathering to whip up a batch of Southern pimento cheese? Brighten up lunchtime with a hearty pimento cheese sandwich- we'll take ours with garden-fresh tomato slices on the side!
Provided by Southern Living Editors
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Make the mayo mixture. In a large bowl, stir together mayonnaise, diced pimiento, Worcestershire sauce, grated onion, and ground red pepper until blended.
- Toast the pecans. Toasting brings out the rich flavor of the nuts. Preheat your oven to 350°. Bake pecans in a single layer in a shallow pan 8 to 10 minutes or until toasted and fragrant, stirring halfway through. (Stirring helps to ensure even browning.)
- Shred the cheese. Trust us - texture matters. Using the small side of a box grater, finely shred extra-sharp Cheddar cheese. Then use the large side of the grater to coarsely shred sharp Cheddar cheese. Fresh cheese makes a difference.
- Stir and enjoy. Add pecans and shredded cheeses to mayo mixture, stirring until blended. You can store it in the refrigerator up to 1 week. Serve with celery sticks and assorted crackers, or make a grilled pimento cheese sandwich in a skillet or panini press.
WORLD'S BEST PIMENTO CHEESE
Before we moved to Alabama the only encounter I had ever had with pimento cheese was the small jars of Kraft Pimento Cheese. My mom used it to stuff celery for a relish tray. I had my eyes opened when we moved south. Pimento cheese is a staple in the southern family diet. Needless to say I had to put my stamp on this...
Provided by Marsha Gardner
Categories Spreads
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- 1. Puree until smooth in the bowl of a food processor the mayonnaise, cream cheese, garlic, parsley grated onion, Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco sauce.
- 2. Turn into a bowl; set aside. In the food processor, coarsely chop pecans. Add pecans and pimentos, with juice, to mayonnaise mixture.
- 3. Now grate or shred int the food processor the 12 ounces of extra-sharp Cheddar cheese.
- 4. Add to mixture in bowl. Stir well to combine. Allow to stand, refrigerated at least i hour. Even better the following day.
THE LEE BROTHERS' PIMENTO CHEESE
A decidedly Southern spread with Northern roots, pimento cheese is a simple mix of Cheddar, red bell pepper and mayonnaise that can be found on sandwiches from work sites to garden parties across the 16 states below the Mason-Dixon line. This recipe came to The Times from the Charleston, S.C.-bred cookbook authors and occasional contributors to The Times Matt Lee and Ted Lee.
Provided by The New York Times
Categories quick, dips and spreads
Time 5m
Yield About 1 1/2 cups, enough for 4 sandwiches
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- In a large mixing bowl, place the cheddar cheese in an even layer. Scatter the cream cheese, pimentos, mayonnaise and chile flakes over the cheddar cheese. Using a spatula, mix the pimento cheese until it is smooth and spreadable, about 1 1/2 minutes.
- Transfer the pimento cheese to a plastic container or bowl, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. Pimento cheese keeps in the refrigerator for 1 week.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 240, UnsaturatedFat 9 grams, Carbohydrate 2 grams, Fat 22 grams, Fiber 0 grams, Protein 10 grams, SaturatedFat 10 grams, Sodium 320 milligrams, Sugar 1 gram, TransFat 0 grams
SOUTHERN PIMENTO CHEESE
This wonderful version of pimento cheese can be used for grilled cheese sandwiches, as a spread for crackers, or served alongside your favorite fried green tomatoes.
Provided by QUEENREYNEY
Categories Appetizers and Snacks Dips and Spreads Recipes Cheese Dips and Spreads Recipes Cold Cheese Dip Recipes
Time 10m
Yield 12
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Place the Cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, minced jalapeno, and pimento into the large bowl of a mixer. Beat at medium speed, with paddle if possible, until thoroughly combined. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 207.8 calories, Carbohydrate 2.1 g, Cholesterol 44.2 mg, Fat 19.9 g, Fiber 0.2 g, Protein 6.3 g, SaturatedFat 8.6 g, Sodium 229 mg, Sugar 0.5 g
BEST FARMERS' MARKET PIMENTO CHEESE
This is a recipe that has been recreated from an award-winning recipe for pimento cheese found at our local farmers' market. You won't be disappointed. It's even better if it sits for a day in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to blend.
Provided by Colleen Kain
Categories Appetizers and Snacks Dips and Spreads Recipes Cheese Dips and Spreads Recipes
Time 10m
Yield 3
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Stir together the Cheddar cheese, pimento, red onion, green onion, and the Worcestershire sauce. Stir in mayonnaise 1 tablespoon at a time to achieve desired texture.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 225.5 calories, Carbohydrate 2.6 g, Cholesterol 43 mg, Fat 19.8 g, Fiber 0.4 g, Protein 9.7 g, SaturatedFat 9 g, Sodium 301.3 mg, Sugar 0.9 g
WORLD'S BEST PIMENTO CHEESE
Never liked pimento cheese until we ate it at Papa Robin's, a now-defunct restaurant in Jasper, Arkansas. This is a recreation of their marvelous pimento cheese.
Provided by Breanna Baylor
Categories < 4 Hours
Time 1h30m
Yield 2 pints
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Puree till smooth in processor the mayo, cream cheese, garlic, parsley and sauces.
- Turn into bowl.
- now, in food processor, process just till coursely chopped, 1 cup pecans; add pecans and pimentos, with juice, to mayo mixture.
- Now grate cheese in food processor Put into bowl with remaining ingredients.
- Stir well to combine.
- Let stand, refrigerated, at least 1 hour.
- Even better the next day.
WORLD'S BEST PIMIENTO CHEESE
Found this in a local publication and made it three times over the holidays - was asked for the recipe many times. It's easy to double, and is great served with crackers.
Provided by Musical Joy
Categories Spreads
Time 10m
Yield 16 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Combine mayonnaise, cream cheese, garlic, parsley and Tabasco (by hand or in food processor) until smooth.
- Add undrained pimientos, cheese and pecans; mix well.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 4 hours to overnight to allow the flavors to blend.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 166.4, Fat 15, SaturatedFat 6.1, Cholesterol 29.1, Sodium 176.8, Carbohydrate 2.6, Fiber 0.8, Sugar 0.9, Protein 6.3
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, flavorful ingredients will make your pimento cheese taste its best. Look for sharp cheddar cheese, creamy mayonnaise, and tangy pickles.
- Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains preservatives that can affect the taste and texture of your pimento cheese. For the best results, grate your own cheese using a box grater.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can make your pimento cheese tough. Mix just until the ingredients are well combined.
- Chill before serving: Pimento cheese is best served cold. Chill it for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, or cilantro, add a pop of color and flavor to your pimento cheese.
Conclusion:
Pimento cheese is a delicious and versatile spread that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you're spreading it on sandwiches, crackers, or celery sticks, or using it as a dip for vegetables or chips, pimento cheese is sure to be a hit. With its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and the perfect amount of spice, pimento cheese is a Southern classic that everyone will love.
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