Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese is a timeless southern delicacy that combines creamy textures and savory flavors, making it a beloved choice for gatherings, picnics, or a simple snack. This delightful spread is not only easy to whip up in under 10 minutes, but it also evokes a sense of nostalgia, often bringing back memories of family gatherings and sunshine-filled afternoons. With its rich blend of cheeses and zesty spices, this recipe adds a comforting touch to any meal or occasion. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through crafting this delicious pimento cheese that your family and friends will adore.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2.5 cups of creamy Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup of rich Mayonnaise
- 4 oz of juicy Pimentos
- 1/2 cup of smooth Cream Cheese
- 1/4 tsp of Salt (adjust as needed)
- 1 tsp of aromatic Black Pepper
- 1 tsp of Onion Powder for depth
- 2 tsp of Garlic Powder with Parsley (see blog notes)
- 1/2 tsp of Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp of Sugar to balance flavors
These ingredients come together to form a lush and flavorful spread, perfect for slathering on crackers or sandwiches. The sharpness of the cheddar contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tangy pimentos, while the mayonnaise and cream cheese provide a luxurious mouthfeel.
Step-by-Step Directions
First, it is essential to prepare your ingredients to make for a streamlined and quick recipe.
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Shred the Cheddar Cheese: Begin by grating 2.5 cups of cheddar cheese, ensuring you have a fine, fluffy texture that will blend effortlessly with the other ingredients.
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Measure the Other Ingredients: Next, gather 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of cream cheese, and the seasonings: salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar. Don’t forget to drain the 4 oz of pimentos for optimal texture.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cheddar cheese first. Then, incorporate the mayonnaise and cream cheese, followed by the measured seasoning and pimentos.
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Stir Until Well Combined: Using a sturdy spatula or a mixer, blend all the ingredients until you have a smooth and cohesive mixture. Ensure that the pimentos are evenly distributed throughout the cheese blend.
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Serve or Store: You can enjoy your pimento cheese immediately with crackers, vegetables, or bread, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for later enjoyment.
Tips & Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, consider mixing in a splash of hot sauce for some heat. Experiment with different cheese types like pepper jack or gouda to customize your spread. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can use Greek yogurt instead of some mayonnaise or cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese shines as a party dip or a sandwich spread. Serve it at barbecues, brunches, or as a casual appetizer for game days. Pair it with crisp vegetables like carrots and celery, or use it as a filling for your favorite sandwich. It also goes exceptionally well with a chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving (about 2 tablespoons) of Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese contains approximately 80 calories. It also provides a good source of protein and calcium from the cheese. Remember to balance this treat with fresh vegetables and whole grains for a well-rounded diet.
Storing Tips & Variations
Store any leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer preservation, you can freeze it in smaller portions for up to three months. Simply let it thaw in the fridge before using. Variations can include adding finely chopped jalapeños for spice or using different types of cheeses for unique flavor profiles.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese is not just about taste; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together. Easy to prepare and an absolute crowd-pleaser, this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen. Give it a try, and be sure to share your experiences and any personal twists you add to this classic dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cheddar cheese or cream cheese. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.
2. How do I serve pimento cheese?
Pimento cheese is versatile! Serve it with crackers, as a spread on sandwiches or toasted bread, or with fresh veggies.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, pimento cheese often tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld together.
4. What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use soy sauce or a mixture of vinegar and soy sauce for a similar umami flavor without any allergens.
5. How long does homemade pimento cheese last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, homemade pimento cheese can last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Shred the Cheddar Cheese by grating 2.5 cups until fine.
- Measure 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of cream cheese, and the seasonings.
- Drain 4 oz of pimentos.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Incorporate the mayonnaise and cream cheese.
- Add the measured seasonings and pimentos.
- Stir until well combined with a spatula or mixer until smooth.
- Ensure pimentos are evenly distributed.
- Enjoy immediately with crackers, vegetables, or bread.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for later.
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