Pimento Cheese
Pimento cheese is a creamy, flavorful spread featuring melted cheese, pimientos, and a tangy kick of vinegar. Perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip, it appeals to cheese lovers and those seeking a savory, Southern-inspired treat with a smooth, cheesy texture and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the cheese, butter, salt, vinegar, sugar, and mayonnaise in a double boiler until melted.
- Mash the pimiento pepper into the mixture and stir well.
- Remove from heat and continue stirring for a few minutes until well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use a mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese. If you want a little heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. You can substitute pimento with roasted red peppers for a smokier flavor. Make sure to use freshly grated cheese for the best melting qualities. This dip can also serve as a spread on sandwiches or as a topping for crackers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pimento cheese with an assortment of crackers and fresh vegetables for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Bubble Up Pizza for a full meal experience. Consider adding a side of pickles or olives to enhance the flavors. This dish also works well as a spread on sandwiches, perfect for a casual lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, gently warm the pimento cheese in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until just melted. Avoid overheating to maintain smoothness. You can also serve it cold as a dip for vegetables or chips.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pimento Cheese contains roughly 105 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1787mg per serving (78% 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 pimento cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pimento cheese can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Allowing it to chill enhances the flavors, so it's a great option for parties or gatherings. Just give it a good stir before serving to bring the ingredients back together.
What can I serve with pimento cheese?
Pimento cheese is incredibly versatile. Serve it with an array of crackers, sliced vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches. It also pairs well with fruits like apple slices or grapes. For a fun twist, try it as a topping on baked potatoes or mixed into pasta salads.
Is pimento cheese vegetarian?
Yes, traditional pimento cheese is vegetarian, as it primarily consists of cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. However, always check the specific ingredients in your cheese and mayonnaise brands to ensure they meet your dietary preferences. This recipe is perfect for those looking for vegetarian recipes that are both delicious and satisfying.
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).