Fancy Pimento Cheese

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A rich, creamy pimento cheese with sharp cheddar, tangy relish, and diced pimentos, perfect as a spread or dip for casual entertaining and snack lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. grated cheese
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • sweet pickle relish
  • 1 jar pimentos, diced
  • Miracle Whip as needed

Instructions

  1. Add grated cheese, chopped onion, and diced pimentos to a mixing bowl.
  2. Mix in Miracle Whip and sweet pickle relish to taste until well combined.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier consistency, consider using a mixture of mayonnaise and Miracle Whip. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or pepper jack, to enhance flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can elevate this dish. This pimento cheese is also versatile enough to use as a spread for sandwiches in place of traditional spreads.

Serving Suggestions

Pimento cheese is perfect as a dip with crackers, celery sticks, or fresh veggies. It can also be spread onto bread for delicious sandwiches, pairing well with crispy bacon or sliced turkey. For a delightful twist, serve alongside a charcuterie board or with a side of Cheesy Broccoli And Mushroom Bake for a hearty meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing, as it may separate upon thawing. When ready to enjoy, simply stir well to bring it back to a creamy consistency before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fancy Pimento Cheese contains roughly 202 calories, with 4g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1198mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).

202 kcal 10% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.8g 8% DV
Total Fat 8.7g 11% DV
Carbs 28.2g 10% DV
Fiber 2.7g 10% DV
Sugar 14.5g 29% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1198mg 52% DV
Potassium 122.9mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 15.6mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 17.9mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.4mg
Calcium 98.9mg 8% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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 use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can mix and match cheeses according to your preference. Sharp cheddar adds a great flavor, while pepper jack can bring some heat. Experimenting with a blend of cheeses can create a unique and delicious pimento cheese that suits your taste.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt in place of Miracle Whip. You can also reduce the amount of sweet pickle relish or opt for a low-sugar variety. Adding more fresh veggies like diced bell peppers can boost the nutritional value without compromising flavor.

What can I serve with pimento cheese?

Pimento cheese is incredibly versatile! It pairs wonderfully with crackers, fresh vegetables, or even sliced apples for a sweet contrast. For a heartier option, serve it on toasted bread or brioche, or as a topping for burgers. It can also complement a savory dish like Smothered Pot Roast.

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).

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