“pimento Cheese Recipe”

Name: Pimento Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup diced pimentos (drained); 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

If you’re looking for a creamy, tangy dip that embodies Southern charm, look no further than this pimento cheese recipe. Ideal for sandwiches, crackers, or just enjoyed with veggies, this dish is versatile and utterly delicious. Simple to prepare and made with just a handful of ingredients, your guests will be asking for seconds. Let’s dive into making this classic Southern favorite!

Ingredients

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with no cooking time required.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1/4 cup) contains:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 9g
– Fat: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 5g
– Fiber: 0g
This nutritional information is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise.
Mix until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or spatula.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until well incorporated.
Fold in the diced pimentos gently to maintain their texture.
Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and mix well.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld.
Once chilled, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve with crackers, veggies, or on sandwiches as desired.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute sharp cheddar with pepper jack for a spicy kick, or use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist. Additionally, try adding diced jalapeños for extra flavor.

Serving and Pairings

This pimento cheese pairs wonderfully with crackers, fresh vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches. It also makes an excellent topping for burgers or baked potatoes.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s best enjoyed cold, but you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the cheese can lead to a gummy texture.
Using low-quality cheese will affect the flavor significantly.
Forgetting to drain pimentos can make the mixture too watery.
Not chilling the mixture can hide the flavors.
Skipping seasoning may result in a bland dip.

Helpful Tips

Use freshly grated cheese for better texture and flavor.
Let the dip sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.
Consider adding herbs like chives or parsley for freshness.

FAQs

What is pimento cheese made of?

Pimento cheese is typically made from a blend of shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, and various seasonings. It’s a creamy spread that’s a staple in Southern cuisine.

Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Is pimento cheese gluten-free?

Yes, pimento cheese itself is gluten-free as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients. However, always check the labels of any products used, especially the mayonnaise.

How do I serve pimento cheese?

Pimento cheese can be served as a dip with crackers, fresh veggies, or as a sandwich spread. It’s also fantastic on burgers or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Can pimento cheese be frozen?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, pimento cheese can be frozen. However, freezing may affect its texture, so it’s recommended to use it within a month for best results.

Conclusion

This pimento cheese recipe is a quintessential Southern dish that brings a delightful blend of flavors and textures to any gathering. Whether served as an appetizer or a hearty spread, it’s sure to be a hit. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, it’s a must-try for cheese lovers everywhere!