Cooked Pimento And Cheese
A creamy, flavorful pimento and cheese spread with a hint of sweetness and tang, perfect for sandwiches, appetizers, or as a savory dip for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt American cheese and milk in a double boiler for 12 minutes.
- Cook pimento, egg, vinegar, and sugar for 30 minutes.
- While still warm, add 1 cup mayonnaise to the mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or using half-and-half instead. If you prefer a tangy twist, substitute the vinegar with lemon juice. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, although creamy American cheese is traditional. Ensure to stir well while melting to avoid clumping. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cooked pimento and cheese as a dip with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a delightful appetizer. It can also be spread on toasted bread or served in a sandwich, pairing well with a side salad or soup. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light dish like California Egg Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the pimento and cheese mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Avoid overheating to maintain its creamy consistency. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cooked Pimento And Cheese contains roughly 223 calories, with 7g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), and protein (14% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently when ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just be cautious not to overheat it during reheating to maintain the creamy texture.
What can I substitute for American cheese?
If you don't have American cheese, you can use cheddar or a mix of cream cheese and mozzarella for a similar creamy texture. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change slightly. For a sharper taste, opt for sharp cheddar, but you may need to adjust the milk for consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain any meat products. However, be sure to check the cheese labels to ensure they align with your dietary preferences, as some cheeses may contain animal rennet. This dish also pairs wonderfully with vegetarian recipes for a balanced meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).