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Side Dish

Easy Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Spread

A no-cook, creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy classic Southern pimento cheese spread made with sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer for family gatherings and served with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.

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Easy Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Spread
Prep time10 min
Cook time0 min
Rest / other30 min
Total time40 min
Servings6About 2 cups of pimento cheese spread
DifficultyEasy
What you’ll need

Ingredients

Check ingredients as you go.

  • Main Ingredients
  • Seasoning
One step at a time

Let’s make it

  1. Main Ingredients

    In a medium bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and diced pimentos.

  2. Main Ingredients

    Add the mayonnaise to the bowl and stir well to combine until the mixture is creamy and evenly mixed.

  3. Seasoning

    If using jalapeño, finely chop it and add to the cheese mixture along with garlic powder and onion powder for extra flavor.

  4. Seasoning

    Season with salt and black pepper to taste, stirring thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients.

  5. Final

    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the spread to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

A little kitchen wisdom

Tips & notes

Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar for best texture and flavor. Adjust the heat by adding more or less jalapeño. Letting the spread chill improves flavor melding and spreadability.

Saving it for later

Store the pimento cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving if separated.

Reheating

Pimento cheese spread is served cold or at room temperature; no reheating is needed.

Side DishComfort FoodFamily DinnerAmerican