If you’re looking for a creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious spread that encapsulates the essence of Southern cuisine, look no further than the Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese. This crowd-pleasing delight is perfect for slathering on crackers, spreading on sandwiches, or even enjoying straight from the bowl with a spoon. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

The Upside of Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese

Pimento cheese is more than just a dip; it’s a Southern tradition that has stood the test of time. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at picnics, tailgates, or family gatherings. Not only is it easy to make, but it also allows for creativity. You can adjust the spice level, add different ingredients, or even use it as a filling for stuffed peppers. The Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese recipe takes this classic to a whole new level with a perfect balance of sharpness, creaminess, and a kick of heat.

What Goes In

To craft the Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 oz block white very sharp cheddar cheese (I used Cabot’s Extra Sharp) – Do not use pre-shredded cheese.
4 oz block orange creamy sharp cheese (I used Hellavagood Sharp) – Do not use pre-shredded cheese.
¾ cup mayonnaise (Duke’s is recommended, but Hellmann’s, Blue Plate, or Aldi store brand also work well)
½ cup pimento slices (drained well)
3 stalks of green onion, chopped (use both the white and green parts)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (not table salt)
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon hot sauce (Franks or Cholula work best)
½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Setup & Equipment

Before diving into the recipe, gather the following equipment to streamline your cooking process:

Box grater or food processor – for shredding the cheeses
Mixing bowl – to combine all the ingredients
Spatula – for mixing
Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate measurements
Serving dish – to present your pimento cheese

Cook Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese Like This

Creating the Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese is a simple process that delivers big flavor. Follow these steps for a creamy and delicious result:

Step 1: Grate the Cheese

Start by grating the blocks of white and orange cheddar cheese. Using a box grater or food processor ensures a perfect texture that will mix easily with the other ingredients. Remember, do not use pre-shredded cheese as it contains anti-caking agents that can alter the consistency.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, add the grated cheeses, mayonnaise, drained pimentos, chopped green onions, kosher salt, black pepper, hot sauce, and cayenne pepper.

Step 3: Mix It Up

Using a spatula, mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. You want the cheese to be evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Give your pimento cheese a taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary—add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce according to your preference.

Step 5: Chill

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating the ultimate taste experience.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, here are some alternatives you can consider:

Vegan cheese – for a dairy-free version, use your favorite vegan cheese in place of the cheddar.
Greek yogurt – substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Red bell pepper – if you can’t find pimentos, finely chopped roasted red bell peppers can work as a substitute.

Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned in the kitchen. Here are some tips to help you troubleshoot:

If the pimento cheese is too thick, add a little more mayonnaise until you reach your desired consistency.
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
If it tastes too salty, balance it out with a bit more mayonnaise or cheese.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

To ensure your Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese stays fresh and delicious, follow these guidelines:

Cooling: Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to enhance flavors.
Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Rewarming: Pimento cheese is best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it warm, microwave in short intervals while stirring until heated through.

Quick Questions

Can I make Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to develop even more. Just keep it stored in the refrigerator.

What do I serve with pimento cheese?

Pimento cheese is versatile! Serve it with crackers, celery sticks, or sliced cucumbers. It also makes a delicious sandwich or burger topping.

Can I freeze pimento cheese?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze pimento cheese for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more hot sauce or cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance. You can also experiment with diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

Try These Next

Once you’ve mastered the Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese, why not explore these delicious recipes?

Final Thoughts

The Ultimate Southern Pimento Cheese is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of Southern flavors that brings people together. Its creamy texture, sharpness from the cheeses, and a touch of heat make it an irresistible addition to any gathering. Whether you’re enjoying it at a picnic or as a late-night snack, this pimento cheese will surely become a favorite. Whip up a batch today, and get ready to impress your friends and family with this Southern classic!