Craving a taste of the South? Look no further than this creamy, dreamy, utterly addictive pimento cheese recipe, inspired by the legendary Jack Allen's Kitchen. This isn't your grandma's pimento cheese – it's elevated, flavorful, and perfect for everything from crackers to burgers. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this easy recipe will become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to experience the magic of this simple yet incredibly delicious dish! This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas, healthy meals (with adjustments), or just a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (the sharper, the better!)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 (4 ounce) jar pimentos, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste!)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Cheese
Start by shredding your cheddar cheese. Using a box grater ensures an even texture. Softening the cream cheese is crucial for easy mixing; you can do this by leaving it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, chopped pimentos, mayonnaise, red onion, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
Step 3: Mix It Up!
Using a sturdy spoon or spatula, gently mix all the ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and creamy. Don't overmix, as this can make the pimento cheese tough.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Taste the pimento cheese and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want more cayenne pepper for extra heat, or more salt for a sharper flavor. This is where your personal touch comes in!
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step enhances the overall taste. Serve chilled with crackers, bread, vegetables, or use it as a burger topping – the possibilities are endless!
Tips for the Best Pimento Cheese:
- Cheese Choice: Using a high-quality, extra sharp cheddar cheese is key to a flavorful pimento cheese. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite!
- Pimento Drainage: Make sure to thoroughly drain the pimentos before adding them to the mixture; excess liquid can make the pimento cheese watery.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using softened cream cheese and room-temperature ingredients makes for easier mixing and a smoother final product.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat. Start small and add more gradually until you reach your desired spiciness.
Variations:
- Spicy Pimento Cheese: Add a pinch of hot sauce or a few dashes of your favorite hot pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Bacon Pimento Cheese: Add 1/4 cup of crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, savory twist.
- Herb Pimento Cheese: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: Approximately 15g
- Protein: Approximately 8g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This delicious pimento cheese recipe is perfect for parties, picnics, or a simple snack. Its easy preparation and incredible flavor make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!