Pimento Cheese Spread with Cheddar and Mayo

Pimento Cheese Spread with Cheddar and Mayo is a beloved Southern classic known for its rich, creamy texture and bold, savory flavor. Often called “the caviar of the South,” this simple yet irresistible spread combines sharp cheddar cheese, tangy mayonnaise, and sweet pimentos into a smooth, flavorful mixture.

It’s incredibly versatile—perfect as a sandwich filling, dip, or burger topping—and requires no cooking at all. Whether served at picnics, parties, or casual family meals, pimento cheese is a comfort food staple that delivers big flavor from just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love the Pimento Cheese Spread with Cheddar and Mayo because it’s the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors with a comforting, nostalgic feel. The sharp cheddar gives it bold character, the mayonnaise adds silky richness, and the pimentos bring just a hint of sweetness and color that makes the spread feel special.

It’s incredibly easy to make, yet always delivers big flavor, whether served as a dip, sandwich filling, or burger topping. I also love how versatile it is—simple enough for everyday snacking but impressive enough for gatherings and parties.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Classic Southern comfort food
• No cooking required
• Rich, creamy, and full of flavor
• Perfect for parties and everyday meals
• Incredibly versatile

Recipe Overview

• Course: Appetizer / Spread
• Cuisine: Southern American
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories (approx.): 200 kcal per serving

Ingredients

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup diced pimentos, drained
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ½ tsp onion powder (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Cooking Directions (Quick Method)

1. Combine cheese, mayo, and pimentos.
2. Season to taste.
3. Mix until creamy.
4. Chill and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Grate the Cheese:
   Grate sharp cheddar cheese using a box grater for best texture.
2. Mix Base Ingredients:
   In a mixing bowl, combine grated cheddar and mayonnaise.
3. Add Pimentos:
   Stir in drained diced pimentos evenly.
4. Season:
   Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using.
5. Mix Until Smooth:
   Stir until fully combined and creamy.
6. Chill:
   Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

How to Serve

Serve as a dip with crackers, pretzels, or vegetable sticks. Use as a sandwich spread, burger topping, or filling for grilled cheese. It’s also delicious spread on toast or biscuits.

Recipe Tips

• Always grate your own cheese for smoother texture
• Use full-fat mayonnaise for best flavor
• Drain pimentos well to avoid watery spread
• Chill before serving for best taste

Variations

1. Spicy Pimento Cheese

Add chopped jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper.

2. Smoked Pimento Cheese

Use smoked cheddar or add smoked paprika.

3. Cream Cheese Version

Replace half the mayo with softened cream cheese for extra richness.

4. Southern-Style Chunky

Mash lightly instead of fully mixing for a chunkier texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended—texture may separate when thawed.
• Make Ahead: Best made 1 day in advance for fuller flavor.

Special Equipment Needed

• Box grater
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Conclusion

Pimento Cheese Spread with Cheddar and Mayo is a timeless, crowd-pleasing recipe that proves simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. Creamy, cheesy, and endlessly adaptable, it’s perfect for entertaining or everyday snacking. Once you try this classic spread, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.