Pimento cheese is a Southern classic for good reason. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with little bites of sweet pimento, it’s one of those simple recipes that works for just about any occasion. Spread it thick on sandwiches, serve it with crackers, scoop it up with fresh vegetables, or keep a bowl in the refrigerator for an easy snack. This homemade version combines sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, cream cheese, and pimentos for a rich, flavorful spread that’s hard to stop eating.
8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, drained well
1 tablespoon finely grated onion
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
Salt, to taste
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
Add the cheddar, Monterey Jack, pimentos, grated onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne, if using. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Taste and add salt as needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving so the flavors have time to blend.
Serve as a sandwich spread, with crackers, on celery, or as a dip.