Are you a fan of creamy, cheesy goodness? Look no further! Pimento cheese is a Southern staple that has gained popularity across the country. This delicious spread is made with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and diced pimentos (green peppers), and can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to dips to casseroles.
Whether you’re a Southerner at heart or just looking for a new recipe to add to your repertoire, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share 18 creamy pimento cheese recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations to spicy twists and savory takes on traditional dishes, there’s something for everyone. So grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and let’s dive in!
Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Spread
This creamy spread is a staple at any Southern gathering. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, it’s the perfect accompaniment to crackers, bread, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup pimentos (drained), chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped pimentos.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! This spread is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Spicy Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Dip
Spicy Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Dip: A creamy and spicy twist on classic pimento cheese dip, perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of pimento (roasted red bell pepper), diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
2. Add cilantro, jalapeño, cheddar cheese, and pimento to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Bacon-Infused Pimento Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your sandwich game with this rich and savory combination of crispy bacon, creamy pimento cheese, and sweetly toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of pimento cheese spread
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh chives or scallions (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two bread slices, buttered-side down, in the pan.
4. Spread 1 tablespoon of pimento cheese on top of each bread slice.
5. Sprinkle 3 crumbled bacon slices on top of the cheese.
6. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered-side up.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is toasted.
9. Garnish with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Burgers
Elevate your burger game with this creamy and savory twist on the classic cheeseburger. The addition of pimento cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the juiciness of the beef.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 ounces ground beef
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place a spoonful of pimento cheese in the center of each patty. Fold the edges over to enclose the cheese, making sure they are sealed tightly.
5. Grill the burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Assemble burgers with cheddar cheese and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the creamy addition of pimento cheese! This classic Southern twist on a party favorite is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread (see note)
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Paprika or chopped fresh herbs, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and mash with a fork until smooth.
3. Add pimento cheese spread, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to the yolks. Mix until combined.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.
5. Garnish with paprika or chopped fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: None (prepare in advance for a stress-free party)
Garlic Herb Pimento Cheese Bites
These bite-sized appetizers are a flavorful twist on classic pimento cheese, with the added depth of garlic and herbs. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix pimento cheese spread, cream cheese, parsley, chives, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Spoon small balls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
4. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pimento Cheese Mac and Cheese
This comforting casserole combines the rich flavors of pimento cheese with the comfort of macaroni and cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Add pimento cheese spread, heavy cream, and butter to the cheese mixture. Mix until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Peppers: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of pimento cheese with the sweetness of bell peppers, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix pimento cheese spread with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro.
4. Stuff each pepper with the pimento cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pimento Cheese Cornbread Muffins
Elevate your snack game with these scrumptious Pimento Cheese Cornbread Muffins, packed with the creamy richness of pimento cheese and the warmth of cornbread. Perfect for parties or as a satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons pimento cheese spread
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and pimento cheese spread until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in melted butter.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Optional: drizzle with honey or sprinkle sugar on top.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Pimento Cheese Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly Southern-inspired sandwich. Pimentos add a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with melted cheddar and buttery bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1/4 cup pimento cheese spread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 slice of sharp cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Spread pimento cheese on top of the bread slice.
5. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of the pimento cheese.
6. Top with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Pimento Cheese Potato Skins
Elevate your potato skins game with the creamy richness of pimento cheese! This recipe combines the comfort of baked potatoes with the tanginess of cheese and the sweetness of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
3. Slice potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to make room for filling.
4. In a bowl, mix pimento cheese spread with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Stuff each potato skin with the pimento cheese mixture and top with chopped cilantro.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the tops and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pimento Cheese Biscuits
Elevate your brunch game with these flaky, cheesy, and utterly delicious pimento cheese biscuits. Perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or as a side to your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese and pimento cheese spread until well combined.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring until dough comes together in a ball.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a biscuit cutter.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pimento Cheese Quesadillas
Pimento Cheese Quesadillas: A Southern Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
These crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying quesadillas are a game-changer for pimento cheese lovers. By combining the creamy spread with melted cheddar and wrapped in a warm tortilla, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pimento cheese
– 2 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the pimento cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, then fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these creamy, savory Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms. This comforting treat is perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushroom caps and remove stems.
3. In a bowl, mix together pimento cheese spread, cheddar cheese, and softened butter until well combined.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture, mounding slightly in center.
5. Sprinkle tops with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pimento Cheese and Avocado Toast
Elevate your snack game with this creamy Pimento Cheese and Avocado Toast recipe! This sweet and savory combination is perfect for a quick lunch or satisfying afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup pimento cheese spread
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread a layer of mashed avocado on each slice.
3. Top with a spoonful of pimento cheese spread.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Note: You can use store-bought pimento cheese or make your own by blending softened cream cheese with diced pimentos and spices.
Pimento Cheese Fried Chicken Sandwich
A Southern twist on the classic fried chicken sandwich, this recipe combines crispy fried chicken, creamy pimento cheese, and crunchy lettuce all on a soft bun. Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1 egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and grated cheddar cheese.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading pimento cheese on the bottom bun, topping with fried chicken, and finishing with lettuce leaves.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pimento Cheese Pizza with Caramelized Onions
This Southern-inspired pizza combines the creaminess of pimento cheese with the sweetness of caramelized onions, all on a crispy crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Caramelize onions by cooking them in olive oil over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Spread pimento cheese evenly over the pizza crust.
5. Top with caramelized onions.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pimento Cheese and Bacon Wrapped Jalapeños
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and spicy treat! Crunchy bacon-wrapped jalapeños filled with a tangy pimento cheese spread will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeño peppers
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut off the stems and slice a small portion from the top of each jalapeño, creating a flat surface.
3. Stuff each jalapeño with about 1-2 teaspoons of pimento cheese spread.
4. Wrap each jalapeño with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the wrapped jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of pimento cheese! This Southern classic has been elevated with new twists and flavors. From classic spreads and dips to savory sandwiches, bites, and more, there’s something for everyone. Try making Bacon-Infused Pimento Cheese Sandwiches or Pimento Cheese Stuffed Burgers. Or go sweet with Pimento Cheese Cornbread Muffins. Whether you’re looking for a comforting snack or a show-stopping dish, these 18 creamy pimento cheese recipes will satisfy your cravings.
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