Homemade Southern Pimento Cheese is a classic Southern dish that is loved for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. This recipe combines sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, and a few other ingredients to create a delicious spread that is perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip for veggies.
Ingredients for Homemade Southern Pimento Cheese:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained
- 1 tablespoon grated onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Homemade Southern Pimento Cheese:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, diced pimentos, grated onion, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Homemade Southern Pimento Cheese as a spread for sandwiches, a dip for crackers or veggies, or as a topping for burgers and hot dogs.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is the base of this recipe and provides a rich, tangy flavor. Use a good quality cheddar for the best results.
- Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps to bind the ingredients together. You can use full-fat or light mayonnaise, depending on your preference.
- Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the pimento cheese. Make sure it is softened before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Pimentos: Pimentos are small, sweet peppers that add a pop of color and a slightly sweet flavor to the pimento cheese. Drain them well before adding them to the mixture.
- Grated Onion: Grated onion adds a mild onion flavor to the pimento cheese. If you prefer a stronger onion flavor, you can use finely minced onion instead.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle garlic flavor to the pimento cheese without being overpowering.
- Paprika: Paprika adds a hint of smokiness and a warm, earthy flavor to the pimento cheese.
- Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are added to taste and help to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
Homemade Southern Pimento Cheese is a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy it spread on sandwiches, as a dip, or as a topping for your favorite dishes!
