Pimento Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy pimento potatoes topped with crispy bread crumbs make a comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the cubed potatoes until done and reserve the potato water.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the self-rising flour and salt.
- Gradually add 1 cup of the reserved potato water and milk, cooking until the mixture is almost as thick as mashed potatoes, stirring constantly.
- Add the grated Cheddar cheese, chopped pimentos, and chopped onions, stirring well.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the drained potatoes and stir to combine.
- Cube the bread crumbs and pour the melted butter over them.
- Arrange the bread crumbs on top of the potatoes.
- Sprinkle with paprika and bake at 350°F until the top is crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can use all-purpose flour with 1/2 teaspoon baking powder added. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can also enhance the flavor. For a different twist, top with crushed crackers or use different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack.
Serving Suggestions
Pimento Potatoes make a delightful side dish, perfect for pairing with grilled meats or a fresh salad. They also pair beautifully with Bonanza Bread for a hearty meal. Consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish is great for potlucks or family gatherings as well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be aware that the topping might lose its crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pimento Potatoes contains roughly 1085 calories, with 16g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (61% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1302mg per serving (57% 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 in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or Pepper Jack for a unique flavor. Just ensure the cheese melts well for the best texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Pimento Potatoes are vegetarian-friendly as they contain no meat ingredients. Just double-check that the cheese used is vegetarian, as some cheeses may contain animal rennet.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture and cheese sauce in advance. Assemble everything in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).