Mother Ruth'S Pimiento Cheese
Creamy and flavorful, Mother Ruth's Pimiento Cheese is a classic Southern spread perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or vegetables. Rich sharp cheddar combines with sweet pimientos and a touch of mayonnaise, creating a versatile appetizer or snack that can be prepared a day ahead for added convenience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pimientos and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Add the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese and finely chopped onions.
- Pour in the mayonnaise and blend everything together in a mixer, blender, or food processor until smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, hot sauce, and garlic powder to taste.
- Fix the consistency by adding more mayonnaise if needed.
- Transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
- Keeps for 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for some of the mayonnaise. You can also add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Ensure the pimientos are well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the consistency. This pimiento cheese is versatile and can also be used as a spread on sandwiches or paired with crackers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pimiento cheese spread with a variety of dippers like fresh vegetables, crackers, or toasted baguette slices. It pairs beautifully with Easy Banana Nut Bread for a delightful brunch spread. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or as part of a charcuterie board for an inviting appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop further after a day or two, making it even tastier. It can last for up to 2 to 3 weeks when properly sealed. If it thickens too much, stir in a little more mayonnaise to restore its creamy texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother Ruth'S Pimiento Cheese contains roughly 381 calories, with 4g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 35g fat.
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 pimiento cheese ahead of time?
Yes, making pimiento cheese ahead of time is recommended! It actually tastes better after chilling in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just remember to store it in a sealed container to preserve freshness.
What can I add to customize the flavor?
You can customize this recipe by adding ingredients like chopped herbs (such as dill or parsley), hot sauce for heat, or different types of cheese like pepper jack or gouda. Experiment with flavors to create a version that suits your taste!
Is pimiento cheese gluten-free?
Yes, pimiento cheese itself is gluten-free as it primarily consists of cheese, pimientos, and mayonnaise. However, be sure to check the labels of any additional ingredients or dippers you plan to serve it with to ensure they are gluten-free.
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).