Description
This classic Pimento Cheese recipe is a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy spread made with sharp Cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, cayenne pepper, and Duke's mayonnaise. Perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a flavorful dip, it comes together quickly with a few simple ingredients and a food processor.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 2 8-ounce blocks extra sharp Cheddar cheese
Vegetables
- 1 4-ounce jar diced pimentos, drained
Spices
- 1/2-1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Condiments
- 1/2 - 3/4 cup Duke's mayonnaise
Instructions
- Grate the Cheese: Begin by grating the two 8-ounce blocks of extra sharp Cheddar cheese using a food processor for ease, or by hand using both the small and large sides of a handheld grater until you have a generous bowl of grated cheese.
- Add Pimentos: Drain the 4-ounce jar of diced pimentos well and add them directly to the grated cheese.
- Season: Sprinkle 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper over the cheese and pimentos, starting with 1/4 or 1/2 teaspoon if preferred, and add the optional 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Avoid adding salt since the cheese provides enough saltiness.
- Mix in Mayonnaise: Stir in 1/2 cup of Duke's mayonnaise initially. Depending on your preferred creaminess, you may add up to 3/4 cup in total.
- Combine Ingredients: Start mixing on low speed for about a minute to blend the ingredients gently, then increase to medium-high speed and mix thoroughly for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is fully incorporated and creamy.
- Taste and Adjust: Check the flavor of your pimento cheese spread. Add more mayonnaise or cayenne pepper as desired to adjust creaminess and spice to your liking.
- Finish: Mix again briefly to incorporate any additional ingredients and achieve a smooth, creamy texture. The pimento cheese is now ready to serve or store.
Notes
- For a smoother spread, use the food processor to grate the cheese and mix.
- Start with less cayenne pepper and adjust to your spice preference.
- Duke's mayonnaise is recommended for its unique flavor but other mayonnaises can be used.
- No added salt is necessary due to the salty nature of the sharp cheddar cheese.
- Pimento cheese can be refrigerated for up to 5 days stored in an airtight container.
- Serve as a sandwich filling, dip for crackers, or as a topping for burgers and grilled vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Spread
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
