Pimento Cheese Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy. 

Pimento cheese is a true Southern staple—creamy, tangy, a little bold, and endlessly versatile. This classic Southern pimento cheese recipe keeps things simple and authentic with sharp cheddar, mayo, and pimentos, blended into a perfectly spreadable texture that’s just right for crackers, sandwiches, or your favorite appetizers.

This version focuses on what really matters: big cheddar flavor, the right creamy consistency, and just enough seasoning to make it shine. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and one of the easiest ways to bring a little Southern comfort to any gathering.

If you’re planning a party or building a snack spread, this belongs right alongside my Creamy Ham Salad, Sausage Balls, Southern Deviled Eggs Recipe, or a warm, crowd-pleasing favorite like Rotel Dip.

✨ Before You Begin

✨ Grate your own cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better, tastes better, and gives you the ideal texture—pre-shredded just won’t deliver the same result.

✨ Start with less mayo. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out. This keeps the pimento cheese creamy, not loose.

✨ Use the mixer carefully. A hand mixer creates a smooth, spreadable texture, but mix just until combined—you don’t want it whipped completely smooth.

✨ Let it chill. This step makes a big difference. The flavors blend together and the texture firms up perfectly.

What Is Pimento Cheese?

Pimento cheese is a classic Southern spread made with cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. It’s creamy, tangy, and just a little savory, often served as a dip, sandwich filling, or appetizer.

Traditional versions keep the focus on sharp cheddar and simple, well-balanced seasoning, letting the flavor of the cheese shine.

Pimento Cheese Ingredients + Key Notes

This is just a quick glance at what you’ll need. For exact measurements and the full ingredient list, head down to the recipe card below.

Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show. Freshly grated sharp cheddar gives pimento cheese its bold, classic flavor and the best texture.

Mayonnaise: Binds everything together and creates that creamy, spreadable consistency. Duke’s is the traditional Southern choice.

Pimentos: Also called pimientos, these mild red cherry peppers give pimento cheese its signature color, subtle sweetness, and classic flavor. Drain them well before mixing.

Onion: Adds depth and a subtle savory bite without overpowering the cheese.

Seasonings: Garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper bring balance and just a little kick.

Optional Worcestershire or Pickle Juice: A small amount adds depth and brightness.

🥣 How to Make Pimento Cheese

Prep the cheese. Grate the cheddar using the large holes of a box grater for the best flavor and texture.

Combine ingredients. Add the cheese, pimentos, onion, seasonings, and Worcestershire sauce or pickle juice, if using, to a mixing bowl.

Mix gently. Using a hand mixer on low speed, beat in 1/2 cup mayonnaise until just combined.

Adjust the texture. Add more mayo, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is creamy and spreadable but still slightly textured.

Chill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour so the flavors can blend and the texture can firm up.

⭐ Pro Tips

⭐ Grate your own cheese

Freshly grated cheese gives pimento cheese the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese won’t mix as smoothly.

⭐ Drain the pimentos well

Extra liquid from the jar can loosen the texture, so drain them thoroughly before mixing.

⭐ Use extra-sharp cheddar

Mild cheese won’t give you the bold, classic flavor this recipe is known for.

⭐ Mix just until combined

You want it creamy and spreadable, but still slightly textured.

⭐ Chill before serving

The flavor improves and the texture firms up beautifully.

⚠️ Common Mistakes

⭐ Too thick

Add a little more mayo, one tablespoon at a time.

⭐ Too soft

Stir in a little more freshly grated cheddar to firm it up.

⭐ Bland flavor

Use sharper cheddar, add a pinch more salt, or increase the cayenne slightly.

⭐ Too smooth

It was overmixed—next time mix just until combined.

Frequently Asked Questions

◆ What is pimento cheese made of?

Classic Southern pimento cheese is made with sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, and simple seasonings.

◆ Is cream cheese traditional in pimento cheese?

No — traditional Southern pimento cheese does not include cream cheese. It’s typically made with cheddar and mayonnaise, though cream cheese is sometimes added in modern versions for a smoother texture.

◆ What is the best cheese to use for pimento cheese?

Extra-sharp cheddar is best because it gives pimento cheese its bold, signature flavor. Freshly grated cheese works best for both taste and texture.

◆ How do you serve pimento cheese as an appetizer?

Serve pimento cheese in a bowl with crackers, crostini, celery sticks, or sliced vegetables. It’s also great as part of a Southern-style appetizer spread. 💗

◆ Can you make pimento cheese ahead of time?

Yes — pimento cheese is even better after it has time to chill. Make it a few hours ahead or up to a day in advance for the best flavor.

◆ How long does pimento cheese last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, pimento cheese will last about 4 to 5 days in the refrigerator.

◆ Can you freeze pimento cheese?

Freezing is not recommended because the texture can become grainy and separated after thawing.

◆ Why is my pimento cheese too thick or too runny?

If it’s too thick, add a little more mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon at a time. If it’s too runny, stir in more freshly grated cheddar until it firms up.

More Pimento Cheese Recipes to Try

If you love this classic Southern spread, try my Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls next — they turn the same bold, cheesy flavor into warm, savory party bites.

Tried This Recipe?

💗 If you enjoyed this recipe, please take a moment to leave a star rating and a quick comment — I love hearing from you!

Tip for mobile readers: scroll just a bit to tap the stars — thank you!

Have a question or made a tweak? Drop it in the comments — I’m always happy to help and love seeing how you make these recipes your own.

👉 Want more cozy, family-favorite recipes like this? Subscribe to my free newsletter so you don’t miss the next one!

Thanks for stopping by my kitchen today — happy cooking, friends! ❤️ Kathleen

Save Recipe!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe

Author: Kathleen

Ingredients

• ▢ 3 cups extra-sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• ▢ 1/2 to 3/4 cup mayonnaise, Duke’s preferred
• ▢ 1 (4-ounce) jar pimentos, well drained and finely chopped
• ▢ 2 tablespoons very finely grated or minced onion
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ▢ 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or pickle juice optional

Instructions

• Grate cheese. Grate the cheddar using the large holes of a box grater.
• Mix base. In a large bowl, add the grated cheese, pimentos, onion, garlic powder, cayenne, black pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce or pickle juice, if using.
• Beat to combine. Using a hand mixer on low speed, beat in 1/2 cup mayonnaise until just combined. Add more mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating briefly between additions, until the mixture is creamy and spreadable.
• Control the texture. Mix just until combined—you want it creamy but still slightly textured, not completely whipped smooth.
• Chill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
• Serve. Serve with crackers, celery sticks, crostini, sandwiches, or as part of your favorite Southern appetizers.

Fans Also Made:

• 
  Beer Cheese Recipe (Easy Beer Cheese Dip)
• 
  Mississippi Sin Dip
• 
  Sour Cream and Onion Dip Recipe
• 
  Spinach and Artichoke Dip

RATE THIS RECIPE

Save Recipe!

Notes

• Using a mixer creates a smoother, more spreadable texture—but avoid overmixing or it can become too soft.
• Freshly grated cheese is key for the best flavor and consistency.
• Start with less mayonnaise and add more gradually—you’re looking for creamy, not loose.
• Chilling the pimento cheese improves both flavor and texture.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE? I'D LOVE TO SEE!Tag @GonnaWantSeconds or #gonnawantseconds on Instagram!

© Gonna Want Seconds. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media/website/blog is strictly prohibited.

On your phone? Check the web story here.

Pin

Share

Email

2K Shares