Southern Pimento Cheese is so easy to make with just a few ingredients. Serve it as a spread for crackers, sandwich topping or with crunchy vegetables for an easy appetizer.

Bowl of pimento cheese on a plate of crackers.

Pimento Cheese is one of those southern dishes that everyone declares their version to be the best. This recipe is a version of my Aunt Carol’s that is very similar to the one from Southern Living. We also love my mother-in-law’s pimento cheese spread that is made with American cheese.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Southern Pimento Cheese

Cheddar Cheese– Extra sharp is best, for the most flavor.
Pepper-Jack Cheese – This is may not be traditional, but it’s delicious.
Pimento Peppers – Find them in small jars, usually in the pickle isle of any grocery store.
Mayonnaise – Duke’s Mayo is preferred.
Worcestershire Sauce
Granulated Garlic
Onion Powder
Kosher Salt

Step-By-Step Directions for Pimento Cheese

Collage: shredded pepper jack and cheddar cheese / drained pimento peppers.

Shred cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese using the large side of a grater.
Drain the pimento peppers.

Collage making pimento cheese in a bowl with mayo.

In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, salt and pimento peppers.
Stir in shredded cheese and mix well.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 1 week.

Variations for Southern Pimento Cheese

Cheese: Use any combination of cheddar varieties including white cheddar or smoked cheddar. Use blocks of cheese that you shred yourself. Pre-shredded cheeses have additives that I like to avoid.
Cream Cheese – Softened cream cheese can be used for half of the mayonnaise.
Grated Onion – We use onion powder but fresh grated onion is commonly used.
Jalapenos – Spice it up with some diced pickled jalapenos or candied jalapenos.
Pickles – Dice pickles or use your favorite sweet pickle relish.
Cayenne Pepper – For an even spicier kick add cayenne pepper.
Make Pimento Cheese Spread – If you prefer spreadable pimento cheese, use an electric mixer to blend the ingredients until desired consistency.

Bowl of pimento cheese with a cracker in the top.

Serving Suggestions for Pimento Cheese

Appetizer: Serve with crackers, crostini, celery sticks, carrot sticks.
Sandwiches: Spread between 2 slices of white bread for the classic sandwich, or use it to make an epic grilled cheese. It’s a great topping for grilled burgers or Crispy Chicken Tender Sandwiches.
More Ideas: Stir it into Homemade Mac and Cheese or the filling for Jalapeno Poppers. The options are endless.

Bowl of pimento cheese dip with crackers.

Add this Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe to your list for your next get together with friends and family for an easy appetizer that everyone will love.

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5 from 1 vote