Creamy Pimento Cheese Spread (Southern Classic Twist)

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Created on October 21st, 2025 at 07:38 pm

Bold, Zesty & Ready in Minutes

This Southern-style pimento cheese is unbelievably smooth, thanks to whipped cream cheese that stays soft straight from the fridge. It’s the ultimate party dip with a bold tangy twist from chopped pickled jalapeños. Whether you’re layering it into sandwiches, melting it into mac and cheese, or serving it with crackers, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. No fancy equipment, just real flavor and effortless prep — ready in under 10 minutes. Make it ahead for game days, casual get-togethers, or your next family celebration. You’ll want to keep a batch in your fridge at all times.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a rich, creamy appetizer with a kick, this pimento cheese delivers. It’s incredibly versatile — serve it as a dip, use it in grilled cheese, or top your burgers and breakfast sandwiches with it. The whipped cream cheese gives it a light, fluffy texture, while the cheddar and spices bring deep savory notes. This is one of those recipes that feels nostalgic yet totally fresh and exciting, especially with the optional jalapeños. Plus, it stores well and gets even better with time.

⏱️ Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 20 (1 oz per serving)

📝 Ingredients List

2 cups grated cheddar cheese (preferably hand-grated)
8 oz. whipped cream cheese (or softened block cream cheese)
4 oz. pimento peppers, drained
¼ cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke’s)
2 tbsp chopped pickled jalapeños (optional)
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Minced fresh chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets — just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring spoons
Sharp knife (if dicing peppers)
Small serving bowl (for presentation)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cheddar, whipped cream cheese, and mayonnaise.
Add drained pimentos, chopped jalapeños (if using), and spices: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Stir everything together until fully blended.
Taste and adjust seasoning or heat level if needed. 🌶️
Serve immediately or chill for later.
Garnish with chives or parsley and a dusting of paprika before serving. ✨🧄

💡 Pro Tips

Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Substitutions: No pimentos? Use diced roasted red bell peppers.
Serving Ideas: Spread it on crackers, sandwiches, breakfast wraps, or burgers. Stir it into mac and cheese or top a baked potato.
Spice Level: Use more jalapeños or cayenne for extra heat — or skip both for a milder version.
Make Ahead: Flavors deepen after a day in the fridge — great for prep!

🧾 Nutrition Table

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 oz	107	3g	1g	10g	0.2g	1g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.