# Easy Southern-Style Pimento Cheese Recipe

This approachable recipe yields a creamy, flavorful pimento cheese that's perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip. It's simple to make and delivers authentic Southern flavor.

## Ingredients

- 8 oz (2 cups) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (Duke's recommended, if available)
- 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/8 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce

## Instructions

1. **Prep the cheese:** Grate the cheddar cheese using the large holes of a box grater. Set aside.

2. **Mix the base:** In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy. (Tip: If you forgot to soften the cream cheese, microwave it for 10-15 seconds.)

3. **Add flavors:** Stir in the drained pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper.

4. **Combine:** Gently fold in the grated cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

5. **Taste and adjust:** Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add smoked paprika or hot sauce if desired.

6. **Chill:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

## Serving Ideas

- Spread on white bread for a classic pimento cheese sandwich
- Use as a dip for celery sticks, carrots, or crackers
- Dollop onto burgers for a Southern twist
- Spread on toasted baguette slices for an easy appetizer

## Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Enjoy your homemade pimento cheese!

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### **Pimento Cheese Recipe**

#### **Ingredients:**
- **8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese**, grated
- **4 oz. cream cheese**, softened
- **1/2 cup mayonnaise** (preferably Duke’s for a more authentic flavor)
- **1/4 cup pimentos**, drained and finely chopped
- **1 tsp Dijon mustard** (optional, for a slight tang)
- **1/4 tsp garlic powder**
- **1/4 tsp onion powder**
- **1/4 tsp smoked paprika** (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- **Salt and pepper** to taste
- **Dash of hot sauce** (optional, for a bit of heat)

#### **Instructions:**
1. **Grate the Cheese:**
   - Start by grating the sharp cheddar cheese. Freshly grated cheese is ideal because it has a better texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.

2. **Mix the Base:**
   - In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy.

3. **Add the Pimentos:**
   - Gently fold in the chopped pimentos, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

4. **Season the Spread:**
   - Add the Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.

5. **Taste and Adjust:**
   - Taste the pimento cheese and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce.

6. **Chill:**
   - For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.

#### **Serving Suggestions:**
- Use as a spread for sandwiches or crackers.
- Serve as a dip with fresh vegetables.
- Spread on toasted bread for a warm, melty version.

### **Storage:**
- Store the pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

This recipe provides a creamy, flavorful pimento cheese that's versatile enough for sandwiches, snacks, or appetizers.