Mother'S Pimiento Cheese Spread
A creamy, tangy cheese spread with sharp cheddar, Velveeta, sweet gherkins, and pimientos, perfect for sandwiches, dips, or appetizers for cheese lovers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind the sharp Cheddar cheese, Velveeta cheese, sweet gherkins, and pimientos together.
- Add sugar, pepper, and Miracle Whip to the mixture and blend well.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mixture. If sharp Cheddar is too intense for your taste, you can substitute it with a milder cheese like Monterey Jack. Be sure to finely chop the sweet gherkins to achieve a smooth texture. This dip is best enjoyed when chilled for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
This pimento cheese spread is perfect as a dip for crackers or fresh vegetables. Serve it alongside a charcuterie board or with warm, crusty bread for a delightful lunch. It also pairs beautifully with Spicy Mandarin Muffins for a sweet and savory contrast. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before serving again, as the ingredients may separate. If you want to serve it warm, gently heat in the microwave in short intervals, being careful not to overheat as the cheese may become oily.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Pimiento Cheese Spread contains roughly 245 calories, with 9g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 788mg per serving (34% 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 use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar and Velveeta are traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or Pepper Jack for added flavor. Just ensure the blend melts well and maintains the creamy consistency you desire.
How can I make this pimento cheese spread spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce into the mixture. You can also use a spicy cheese like Pepper Jack instead of the Cheddar to elevate the heat level and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Is this pimento cheese spread suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. However, always check the labels of your cheese and Miracle Whip to ensure they align with vegetarian standards, as some processed foods may include animal-derived ingredients.
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).