Bless Your Heart Pimento Cheese
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: "Bless Your Heart" Pimento Cheese
Ever find yourself needing a quick app for a party? Or maybe you just crave something comforting? This Southern Pimento Cheese recipe is your answer! It’s creamy, tangy, and has a little kick.
Honestly, it's the Best Recipe for Southern charm on a cracker.
What Makes This Pimento Cheese so Special?
This Southern Pimento Cheese recipe is a true Southern classic. I first tried something like this at a church potluck when I was little.
It is perfect for any occasion from a fancy brunch to a casual get together. Think Party Dip Recipes and Appetizers And Dips galore! This is THE Cheese Dip you need.
This is the Southern Cheese Spread of your dreams. It's easy to make, only taking about 50 minutes including prep and chill time.
The Recipe yields approximately 3 cups, perfect for sharing. What makes it special? The perfectly balanced flavors and creamy texture.
Why You'll Love This Homemade Pimento Cheese
One of the main benefits of this recipe? It’s a crowd pleaser! Plus, it’s packed with protein and calcium from all that cheese.
This recipe is so easy and satisfying. Try this pimento cheese sandwich today! I bet you'll love this Spicy Pimento Cheese Recipe .
Want to become a star in the kitchen? The answer is Homemade Pimento Cheese is the answer. Let's get to the good stuff. The ingredients list follows.
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Recipe
Time to gather 'round and get ready to whip up some Southern Pimento Cheese ! Y'all know this ain't just any cheese dip ; it's a Southern cheese spread tradition.
Honestly, it's the ultimate appetizers and dips , perfect for everything from Sunday supper to party dip recipes .
Main Ingredients for Homemade Pimento Cheese
Alright, here's what you need. Remember, quality counts, especially with the cheese!
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 8 ounces (227g) . Go for a good quality aged cheddar for that extra zing. Trust me, it makes a difference.
- White Cheddar Cheese: 4 ounces (113g) . Adds a nice balance.
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces (113g) . Make sure it's softened; nobody wants lumpy pimento cheese .
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup (113g) . Duke's is the classic Southern choice.
- Pimentos: 4 ounces (113g) , drained and diced.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon .
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon .
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon . Adjust to your heat preference for a spicy pimento cheese recipe .
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon , freshly ground.
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Hot Sauce: 1/4 teaspoon
Seasoning Notes: The Secret's in the Spice!
The right spice combo is key to unlocking the full potential of Southern Pimento Cheese . Onion and garlic powder bring a savory depth.
Cayenne adds that essential kick. Don't skip the Worcestershire; it adds a secret umami bomb!
Quick sub? If you're out of cayenne, a pinch of red pepper flakes works in a pinch.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don't need fancy gadgets for this, bless your heart!
- Cheese grater. A box grater works fine.
- Large mixing bowl.
- Spatula or wooden spoon.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Airtight container. Keeps your Southern Pimento Cheese fresh.
"Bless Your Heart" Pimento Cheese: The Ultimate Southern Spread
Alright y'all, let's dive headfirst into making some seriously good Southern Pimento Cheese . I'm talking about that creamy, tangy, slightly spicy Cheese Dip that just makes everything better.
It's a Southern staple, a true Southern Cheese Spread , and trust me, this Best Recipe is gonna become your go-to.
Think of warm summer days, porch swings, and a big ol' bowl of this stuff pure bliss! This recipe captures the essence of Southern charm with a creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy Pimento Cheese spread that's perfect for sandwiches, crackers, celery sticks.
Prep Like a Pro
Before we get started, let's get our mise en place on. It's a fancy way of saying "get your stuff together.
" Grate your 8 ounces of sharp cheddar and 4 ounces of white cheddar . Soften that 4 ounces of cream cheese nobody wants lumpy Pimento Cheese ! Dice those 4 ounces of pimentos .
This takes about 20 minutes of active prep. A little prep saves you so much time in the long run, trust me.
And hey, a clean kitchen is a happy kitchen! Remember to always wash your hands before handling food, especially cheese .
step-by-step to Pimento Perfection
Time to get down to business. Here's how we're gonna make this Homemade Pimento Cheese magic happen:
- In a large bowl, combine your grated sharp cheddar, white cheddar, and softened cream cheese.
- Add 1/2 cup of mayonnaise , diced pimentos, 1 teaspoon of onion powder , 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder , 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper , 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper , and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce .
- Mix everything together until well combined. Don't overmix. You want it creamy, not soupy.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings. More cayenne for heat? Go for it! Pinch of salt? Sure thing.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes . This is crucial to let the flavors meld.
Pro Tips for Pimento Paradise
Want to take your Southern Pimento Cheese to the next level? Here are a few tricks I've learned over the years:
- Good Cheese is Key: Don't skimp on the cheese! Pre-shredded cheese is a no-no. It will inhibit the smooth mixing.
- Spice it Up: For a Spicy Pimento Cheese Recipe , add a pinch more cayenne or some diced jalapeños.
- make-ahead Magic: This is a perfect Party Dip Recipes that you can make up to 3 days in advance. The flavors actually get better over time.
Honestly, once you try this recipe, you'll be making it for every potluck, tailgate, and Tuesday night. Enjoy! And remember, it is best if served cold!
Recipe Notes: Your "Bless Your Heart" Southern Pimento Cheese Journey
So, you're about to dive into making some Southern Pimento Cheese ? Fantastic! Let's chat about some tips and tricks to make sure yours is absolutely divine.
Trust me, a little extra know how goes a long way. It's more than just cheese dip , it's a Southern tradition!
Serving Suggestions: Making it Pretty (and Delicious!)
Presentation matters, y'all! For a classic touch, spread your Homemade Pimento Cheese on simple white bread for a Pimento Cheese Sandwich .
It's a total crowd pleaser. Or, if you're feeling fancy, use some cute little crackers or veggie sticks. I sometimes like to dollop it onto a charcuterie board for extra Southern flair.
Pair it with sweet tea or a crisp, dry white wine. The contrast is heavenly! I once saw Southern Cheese Spread served at a wedding reception with mini buttermilk biscuits.
Oh my gosh , it was amazing!
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Your Southern Pimento Cheese will keep well in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure it's in an airtight container.
I like to use a mason jar. You can't freeze it, though. The mayo will separate, and it'll just be a sad, gloopy mess.
Nobody wants that! When reheating, just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. It tastes Best Recipe even the next day!
Variations: Spice it Up (or Tone it Down!)
Want to kick things up a notch? Add some diced jalapeños for a Spicy Pimento Cheese Recipe . I once added some crumbled bacon, and it was a total game changer! If you're watching your waistline (we've all been there!), use light mayo and Neufchâtel cheese.
For my vegan friends, I have yet to find an ideal vegan modification, but you can find many plant based cheeses today, and vegan mayo to give a try.
Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit of Southern Comfort
Let's be real, Southern Pimento Cheese isn't exactly a health food. But it is good for the soul! It provides a good dose of protein and calcium.
However, it's also high in fat and sodium, so enjoy in moderation. One serving (about 1/4 cup) has around 250 calories, 12g of protein, and 20g of fat.
This Party Dip Recipes is perfect when you need that extra touch!
Alright, friends, go forth and create some amazing Southern Pimento Cheese ! Don't be afraid to experiment. Have fun, and remember to taste as you go. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Southern Pimento Cheese, anyway? Is it just cheese and peppers?
Well, bless your heart if you've never had it! Southern Pimento Cheese is a creamy, cheesy spread made with cheddar cheese, pimentos, mayonnaise, and a few seasonings. It's a staple in the South, often called "Carolina Caviar" or "Southern Pate," and is enjoyed on sandwiches, crackers, or straight from the spoon.
It's not just cheese and peppers; it's an experience!
Can I make Southern Pimento Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it's better if you do. The flavors meld together beautifully when it has time to chill. I recommend making it at least 2 hours (ideally overnight) before serving. It will keep in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week… if it lasts that long!
Help! My Southern Pimento Cheese is too runny. What did I do wrong?
Don't you fret! It probably wasn't intentional, but several things can cause runny pimento cheese. First, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened to room temperature - that avoids overmixing. Secondly, be careful not to overmix the ingredients; mix until just combined.
If it's still too runny, try chilling it longer. If that doesn't work, you could try adding a bit more grated cheese to thicken it up.
I'm watching my waistline. Is there a healthier version of Southern Pimento Cheese I can make?
You betcha! While traditionally it's a fairly rich dish, you can lighten it up a bit. Use light mayonnaise and Neufchatel cheese instead of full fat cream cheese. Some folks even use a little Greek yogurt in place of some of the mayo for a tangier flavor and added protein.
Just remember, a little indulgence is good for the soul!
What kind of cheese is best for Southern Pimento Cheese? Can I experiment?
Sharp cheddar is the classic choice and gives that distinctive tang! Aged cheddar is a great option for more depth of flavor. Using a mix of sharp and white cheddar adds complexity. As for experimenting, go for it! Some folks like to add a little Gruyere or even pepper jack for a kick.
Just make sure the cheeses you choose melt well and have good flavor.
Can I freeze Southern Pimento Cheese?
While technically you can freeze Southern Pimento Cheese, I generally don't recommend it. Freezing can alter the texture, making it a bit grainy and less creamy when thawed due to the mayonnaise separating. It's best enjoyed fresh, or made a few days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
But hey, if you've got a ton leftover, it's worth a shot to freeze it and see if you like the result!
Bless Your Heart Pimento Cheese
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 250 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 0g |