There’s something about old-fashioned recipes that just hit differently. They bring a sense of nostalgia, warmth, and pure comfort that modern dishes can’t always replicate. And let me tell you, this Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese is no exception. It’s creamy, tangy, slightly smoky, and packed with flavor in every single bite. Whether you’re slathering it on crackers, spreading it on a sandwich, or just sneaking spoonfuls straight from the bowl (no judgment here), trust me, you’re going to love this!
Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Enjoy it as a dip, a sandwich spread, or even as a topping for burgers. The possibilities are endless!
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
Quick and Easy: Whip it up in just minutes—no fancy kitchen skills required!
Customizable: Adjust the flavors to your liking. Add more spice, change up the cheese, or throw in extra seasonings to make it uniquely yours.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese
Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with just a few simple staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The backbone of this recipe. It gives that bold, tangy bite and creamy texture that makes pimento cheese so irresistible.
Pimentos: The star ingredient that adds a mild sweetness and beautiful color to every bite.
Mayonnaise: Helps bind everything together while adding a smooth, creamy consistency.
Cream Cheese: Makes it extra rich and spreadable, taking the texture to the next level.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a touch of umami and depth that enhances the flavors beautifully.
Garlic Powder: Just a hint to give it a subtle savory kick.
Paprika: Brings a touch of smokiness that makes each bite even more delicious.
Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that balance out all the flavors.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, chopped pimentos, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly combined and creamy.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a smoother pimento cheese, use a hand mixer to blend everything together for a fluffier, more spreadable texture.
Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen, making every bite even more delicious.
Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, give it one final stir and serve with your favorite crackers, bread, or fresh veggies. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8 Calories per serving: 200
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 10 minutes
How to Serve Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Spread it on sandwiches for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Use it as a dip for crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggies.
- Slather it on burgers or grilled cheese for a cheesy upgrade.
- Spoon it over baked potatoes for an extra creamy topping.
- Serve it as part of a charcuterie board with meats and olives.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture and flavor—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the consistency.
- Let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Add heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños if you love a spicy kick.
- Make it ahead—this tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
FAQ
Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother texture.
How long does homemade pimento cheese last? It stays fresh in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container.
Can I freeze pimento cheese? Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture once thawed.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise? You can swap it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist.
Can I make it spicier? Absolutely! Add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to kick up the heat.
Is there a dairy-free version? Yes! Use dairy-free cheese, vegan mayo, and plant-based cream cheese alternatives.
Can I add more seasonings? Definitely! Feel free to experiment with onion powder, mustard, or even a dash of hot sauce.
What’s the best way to serve this at a party? Pair it with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies for a perfect party appetizer.
Can I make this in advance? Yes! The flavors deepen over time, so making it a day ahead is a great idea.
What’s the best type of cheddar to use? Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but mild works if you prefer a less tangy taste.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese is a true classic that never goes out of style. It’s creamy, tangy, and oh-so-addictive—perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or straight-up snacking. Whether you’re making it for a casual snack or a fancy gathering, it’s always a hit. So grab your ingredients, mix up a batch, and get ready to fall in love with this Southern favorite!
Print
Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Old-Fashioned Pimento Cheese is a classic Southern spread made with sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. It’s a versatile dish that can be used as a dip, sandwich filling, or burger topping.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, but recommended)
- 2 ounces diced pimento peppers
Instructions
- In a bowl, blend all ingredients except the pimento peppers until well combined.
- Add the pimento peppers and stir until evenly distributed.
- If the mixture seems dry, add more mayonnaise, a teaspoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Notes
- For best results, avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Duke’s or Blue Plate mayonnaise is recommended for authentic Southern flavor.
- Allowing the pimento cheese to chill for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg