Pimento Cheese

Kimberly Killebrew

A classic Southern staple, Pimento Cheese is perfect for your casual get-togethers, game day, game nights, and holidays!

5 from 35 votes

Prep Time 10

Chill Time 2

Total Time 2 10

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American, Southern

Servings

Calories 211 kcal

8 ounces (2 cups) grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese (don't use pre-grated as it's coated with cellulose and doesn't blend or melt as well)
8 ounces full fat cream cheese , cubed and softened at room temperature
4 ounce jar diced pimentos , thoroughly drained and finely diced (if not already)
1/2 cup good mayonnaise (Duke's is traditional here in the South)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika powder (for a touch of smokiness can substitute smoked paprika)
1/4 teaspoon salt , plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (add more or less as desired)

Place everything in a large mixing bowl and stir until thoroughly combined. Add salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and, for best flavor, chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. See blog post for serving ideas.
Note: Pimento hardens as it cools; let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature to soften before serving.
This will keep for up to a week in the fridge.
Makes about 3 cups.

Keyword Palmetto Cheese, Pimento Cheese

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