Southern Pimento Cheese Spread With Jalapenos Recipe

Pimento cheese is a creamy cheese spread that is a southern staple. This spicy version of Pimento Cheese with Jalapenos has just the right amount of heat. This spreadable cheese makes the perfect dip, sandwich or topping for burgers!

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Why This Jalapeno Pimento Cheese Is The Best!

Traditional pimento cheese is made with cheddar cheese, mayo and pimentos. My jalapeno pimento cheese recipe has the perfect amount of heat to balance the tangy sharp cheddar cheese. Plus I love the creamy texture that the cream cheese adds.

This homemade pimento cheese recipe is so easy to make and tastes so much better than a premade versions from the store. It is an easy appetizer to make for a holiday or football party. No one can resist the rich flavors and creamy goodness.

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What Are Pimentos?

Pimentos are a type of pepper that has a mild sweet flavor. Pimento peppers are a very mild pepper similar to a red bell pepper.

These peppers are usually found jarred in your local grocery store in the isle with the pickles and olives.

Equipment Needed

stand mixer or hand mixer- will combine the ingredients easily.

Key Ingredients

block cheddar cheese- My favorite is extra sharp cheddar cheese. To get the right texture to the pimento cheese, I recommend shredding a block of cheddar cheese with a grater. Pre-shredded cheese has a coating added to it to help keep it from clumping and would not give the nice smooth consistency for pimento cheese.

pimentos- are a type of red pepper that is typically jarred. Look for it in the grocery store with the pickles and olives.

cream cheese- Cream cheese is actually not in the traditional recipe, but I can not imagine it without that creamy texture. Definitely use full fat for the best flavor!

mayonnaise- gives the spicy pimento cheese an extra creamy texture and rich flavor. For good pimento cheese use a reputable brand and go for the full fat variety. I used a ½ cup but you can use a little less mayo if you prefer.

jalapenos- adds just a little kick to classic pimento cheese. Add what your household can handle. I add a ½ to 1 jalapeno depending on the size.

cayenne pepper- is completely optional but I like to add different spices to my cheese spread to give a more complex flavor.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature so it is easier to mix. Grate your block of cheddar cheese. Trust me this is so much better than the pre-shredded variety!

Cut the jalapeno in half and remove the seeds, pith and rib from the inside. This is actually what contains a lot of the heat, so leave it if you want it extra hot!

Add both types of cheese to a large mixing bowl. You can use a stand mixer, hand mixer or even just a wooden spoon if you want a workout. Next add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, jalapeno peppers, pimentos, mayonnaise, salt and pepper.

Mix until the ingredients are just combined. Pimento cheese spread is meant to have a little bit of lumps and texture so do not mix it completely smooth. For this reason I do not recommend a food processor to make the cheese spread.

That's all there is to making homemade pimento cheese! It is such an easy recipe, but always a favorite.

Expert Tips

• Make sure to drain the liquid from the pimentos. If they are in strips and not diced, chop them with a knife before adding the mixing bowl.
• Skip the bagged pre-shredded cheese and grate your own block. It tastes better and does not have the added anti clumping agents added.

Serving Suggestions

My favorite way to eat jalapeno pimento cheese dip is on crackers, celery and carrots. Pimento cheese is also a tasty filling for sandwiches. My husband's favorite is pimento cheeseburgers for the ultimate indulgence!

Storage Recommendations

Pimento cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.

Can You Freeze Pimento Cheese?

I do not recommend freezing it because the mayonnaise will become oily and change the texture when it thaws.

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Did you try this recipe? Please let me know what you think! Leave a comment below, and a 5- star rating. I would love to hear from you! Subscribe Here to get new recipes sent straight to your inbox!