Are you ready to taste a little slice of Southern heaven? Then you've come to the right place! This old-fashioned pimento cheese recipe is the real deal – creamy, tangy, and utterly irresistible. It's the perfect appetizer, sandwich spread, or even a delicious topping for crackers. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick snack, a casual get-together, or even a fancy party! It's one of those delicious dishes that’s always a crowd-pleaser, and homemade cooking doesn’t get much better than this.
Ingredients: A Simple Blend of Southern Flavors
This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a complex and satisfying flavor profile. You likely already have most of these in your pantry!
- 1 (16-ounce) package extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 (4-ounce) can pimentos, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (best quality you have!)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional, but adds a nice bite!)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions: A Quick and Easy Recipe for Delicious Pimento Cheese
This recipe is unbelievably easy, making it a perfect choice for even the busiest weeknights. Let's get cooking!
- Combine ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pimentos, mayonnaise, celery, red onion (if using), softened butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper.
- Mix well: Gently mix all the ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and the cheese is evenly distributed. Don't overmix; you want some texture.
- Season to taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can't take it away!
- Chill (optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. However, it's perfectly delicious straight away if you're in a rush!
Tips and Variations for the Best Pimento Cheese Ever
- Cheese Choice: Experiment with different cheeses! A blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere is divine.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preference. For a milder pimento cheese, omit it entirely or use a smaller amount. For a spicier kick, add more!
- Add-ins: Get creative! Try adding chopped jalapeños, bacon bits, or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor and texture.
- Serving Suggestions: This pimento cheese is amazing on crackers, crusty bread, celery sticks, or as a filling for sandwiches, burgers, or even stuffed bell peppers!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: 8-12g
- Cholesterol: 20-30mg
- Sodium: 400-500mg
This old-fashioned pimento cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and memorable dish. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!