Is there anything more comforting than a perfectly made pimento cheese sandwich? This creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy delight is a Southern classic, and for good reason. It's incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a burst of flavor that's hard to resist. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or a simple yet impressive appetizer, this pimento cheese sandwich recipe is your go-to. Get ready to experience a taste of Southern hospitality in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (best quality you can find!)
- 8 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (the sharper, the better!)
- 4 ounces pimentos, drained and chopped (look for those packed in olive oil for extra flavour!)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat!)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, white bread, or Texas toast all work great!)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pimentos, red onion, pickle relish, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
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Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen. If you're short on time, you can skip this step.
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Assemble Sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of pimento cheese onto four slices of bread. Top with the remaining slices of bread.
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Serve: Cut the sandwiches in half (diagonally, if you're feeling fancy!) and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Pimento Cheese Sandwich:
- Cheese Matters: Using a high-quality, extra sharp cheddar cheese is key to a truly delicious pimento cheese. The sharper the cheese, the more intense the flavor.
- Freshly Ground Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a delightful zing that elevates the flavor profile. Don't skip this step!
- Bread Choice: The type of bread you use can significantly impact the overall experience. Experiment with different types of bread to find your favorite!
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
Variations:
- Spicy Pimento Cheese: Add a pinch of jalapeño peppers or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Cream Cheese Pimento Cheese: Incorporate 4 ounces of softened cream cheese for an even creamier texture.
- Bacon Pimento Cheese: Add 1/4 cup of crumbled cooked bacon for a savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 (depending on bread and cheese choices)
- Fat: High
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This pimento cheese sandwich recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and satisfying healthy meals can be without requiring extensive cooking time or skills. It’s a fantastic quick dinner idea or an easy lunchbox addition. Embrace the simplicity of homemade cooking and enjoy this Southern classic!