Tired of the same old boring snacks? Craving a taste explosion that's both simple and satisfying? Then look no further! This spicy pimento cheese recipe is your new go-to for a quick appetizer, delicious sandwich spread, or even a fun party dip. It's the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightful kick of spice that will leave you wanting more. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, making it a great addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 (16 ounce) package extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 (4 ounce) package pimentos, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pimentos, mayonnaise, red onion, jalapeños, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
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Mix Thoroughly: Gently mix all ingredients until they are evenly combined and the cheese is well incorporated into the creamy mixture.
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Season to Taste: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Taste the pimento cheese and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember, you can always add more spice!
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Chill (Optional): For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Chilling also firms up the mixture, making it easier to spread.
Serving Suggestions:
- Spread: Enjoy this delicious pimento cheese as a spread for sandwiches, crackers, or toasted baguette slices.
- Dip: Serve it with your favorite chips, vegetables, or pretzels for a fantastic party appetizer.
- Stuffing: Use it as a flavorful filling for stuffed peppers, tomatoes, or baked potatoes.
- Topping: Sprinkle it on top of burgers, baked chicken, or grilled vegetables for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for the Best Spicy Pimento Cheese:
- Cheese Choice: For a truly sharp and flavorful pimento cheese, use extra sharp cheddar. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack or pepper jack for variations.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños and cayenne pepper to your liking. Start with less and gradually add more until you achieve your desired level of spiciness.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the taste of your pimento cheese.
- Make Ahead: This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. The flavors will deepen as it sits in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on serving size and ingredients used)
- Fat: Approximately 12-15g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7g
This spicy pimento cheese recipe is a delicious and easy addition to your repertoire of food recipes. Whether you’re searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It's a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, offering a burst of flavor that's hard to resist. Enjoy!