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Pimento Cheese Spread

A creamy Southern classic made with sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and sweet pimentos, ready in under 10 minutes with no cooking required.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Spread
Cuisine: Southern American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded (about 8 ounces)
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise full-fat works best
  • 1 jar 4 ounces diced pimentos, drained well
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a gentle kick
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced roasted red bell pepper optional, for extra texture

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Box grater or food processor
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowl or jar

Method
 

  1. Shred the cheddar cheese fresh using a box grater or food processor into a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Drain the pimentos thoroughly in a fine mesh strainer, pressing gently to remove excess liquid.
  3. Finely dice the drained pimentos into small uniform pieces on a cutting board.
  4. Add the mayonnaise to the shredded cheese and fold together with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until evenly coated.
  5. Mix in the diced pimentos until they are distributed evenly throughout the cheese and mayo mixture.
  6. Sprinkle in the cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, then fold to combine.
  7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, tasting and adjusting as needed.
  8. Transfer the pimento cheese spread into a serving bowl or jar, then chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.

Notes

Let sit in the fridge for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and improve texture.