Creamy Dreamy Pimento Cheese: A Southern Delight

Name: Creamy Dreamy Pimento Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 16 ounces Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened); 4 ounces Pimentos (jar, drained and chopped); 0.25 cup Mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Buttermilk ((or milk)); 1 teaspoon Yellow Mustard; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 0.25 teaspoon Onion Powder; 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional); to taste Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper

BY :

Amaya

Posted On :

September 21, 2025

LUNCH

Pimento cheese. Just the name conjures up images of Southern charm, backyard barbecues, and creamy, cheesy goodness. This isn’t your grandma’s pimento cheese (though it’s certainly worthy of her!), this is an elevated, dreamy version that’s sure to become a new family favorite. We’re talking a perfectly balanced blend of sharp cheddar, tangy cream cheese, sweet pimentos, and a whisper of spice. It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for everything from simple crackers to gourmet sandwiches and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned pimento cheese aficionado or a curious newcomer, prepare to be utterly smitten with this recipe. This creamy dreamy pimento cheese will quickly elevate any gathering, adding a touch of Southern elegance to your table. Get ready to experience the ultimate taste of comfort food, perfectly crafted for those who appreciate both classic flavors and a touch of culinary finesse.

Why You’ll Love This Pimento Cheese Recipe

This isn’t just another pimento cheese recipe; it’s a revelation. What makes this recipe truly special? Let’s explore the delightful details that will have you hooked on this creamy, dreamy concoction. First and foremost, the balance of flavors is impeccable. The sharp cheddar provides a robust base, while the cream cheese adds a luxurious creaminess that melts in your mouth. The sweetness of the pimentos perfectly complements the sharp cheese, creating a harmonious symphony of tastes that is both comforting and sophisticated. The addition of buttermilk (or milk) adds a subtle tang that lifts the entire dish, preventing it from becoming overly rich. A touch of mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder enhances the savory notes, rounding out the flavor profile beautifully. Finally, a dash of cayenne pepper (optional, of course!) brings a gentle warmth that adds depth and complexity without overwhelming the other ingredients. This is a recipe that focuses on quality ingredients and careful execution, resulting in a superior pimento cheese experience you’ll crave time and time again. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and refined taste, which makes it so versatile. Whether served with simple crackers or spread generously on crusty bread, this pimento cheese is sure to impress. It is also an excellent addition to any party platter or appetizer spread. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure, even for the pickiest eaters. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! Even the most novice cooks can master this recipe and enjoy the delicious results. This recipe provides a consistent, high-quality outcome every time, so you can feel confident in your pimento cheese-making skills.

Why You Should Try This Pimento Cheese Recipe

Beyond the sheer deliciousness, there are several compelling reasons why you should definitely try this Creamy Dreamy Pimento Cheese recipe. Firstly, it’s incredibly versatile. This isn’t a recipe confined to a single application. Use it as a dip with your favorite crackers, vegetables like celery and carrots, or even potato chips. Spread it generously on crusty bread or sandwiches for a delightful lunch or snack. It can even be used as a flavorful spread for burgers or grilled cheese sandwiches, adding a layer of exciting, cheesy flavor to your favorite recipes. It’s the perfect party appetizer, guaranteed to impress your guests and disappear quickly. Its elegant simplicity contrasts with its rich, satisfying flavors – a perfect appetizer or addition to a picnic, barbecue, or even a formal dinner party. Secondly, it’s surprisingly easy to make. The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal preparation and cooking skills. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a batch of this creamy dreamy pimento cheese. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. Thirdly, it’s an excellent way to showcase fresh, high-quality ingredients. The recipe highlights the flavors of sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and pimentos, allowing their natural goodness to shine through. This elevates the simple pimento cheese into something special, a dish that is more than the sum of its parts. And let’s not forget the simple joy of homemade food. Nothing beats the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch, and this recipe provides that perfect opportunity. You’ll appreciate the simple elegance, the comforting taste, and the sheer deliciousness of this pimento cheese, leaving you feeling satisfied and happy you tried it.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for the Best Pimento Cheese

Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese (16 ounces): The star of the show! Choose a high-quality, extra sharp cheddar for the best flavor. The sharpness is key to balancing the sweetness of the pimentos and creaminess of the cream cheese. Look for a cheese with a good, strong aroma and a slightly crumbly texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it often contains cellulose which can affect the texture of the pimento cheese. This cheddar cheese also works wonders in many other recipes, especially soups!
Cream Cheese (8 ounces): Softened cream cheese is essential for achieving that dreamy, smooth texture. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting to make your pimento cheese. This will ensure it mixes smoothly with the other ingredients without creating lumps. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the richest flavor and texture.
Pimentos (4 ounces): A classic ingredient in pimento cheese! Choose a jar of quality pimentos, and be sure to drain them well before chopping. The pimentos add sweetness and vibrant color to the mixture. You can also roast your own pimentos for a deeper, more intense flavor; this is a nice alternative for a more intense flavor.
Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Mayonnaise adds creaminess and richness to the pimento cheese. Choose your favorite brand; plain mayonnaise is best so it doesn’t interfere with the other flavors.
Buttermilk (2 tablespoons): Buttermilk adds a wonderful tanginess that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese. If you don’t have buttermilk, milk can be substituted, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Yellow Mustard (1 teaspoon): A touch of yellow mustard adds a subtle depth and complexity to the flavor. Don’t be tempted to add too much, as it can easily overpower the other ingredients.
Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the savory notes and adds a subtle warmth to the pimento cheese.
Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Similar to garlic powder, onion powder adds a savory depth without the strong bite of fresh onion.
Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who enjoy a little kick, cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat that doesn’t overwhelm the other flavors. Start with less and adjust to your preferred level of spiciness.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste. Always season your food to taste for the best result.

Utensils:

Medium-sized mixing bowl
Grater (if not using pre-shredded cheese)
Measuring spoons and cups
Knife for chopping the pimentos
Spatula or wooden spoon for mixing
Airtight container for storing leftovers

Detailed Recipe Steps for Creamy Dreamy Pimento Cheese

Now, let’s get to the fun part: making your creamy dreamy pimento cheese! Follow these steps carefully, and soon you will be enjoying this delicious Southern staple.

Shred the Cheese: If you’re not using pre-shredded cheddar, start by shredding your 16 ounces of extra sharp cheddar cheese. Using a box grater is recommended for even shredding. Ensure that the cheese is finely shredded for a smoother final product. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains cellulose which can make the pimento cheese gummy.
Combine Cheeses: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. **Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for the easiest mixing**. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, mix thoroughly until the two cheeses are evenly combined. This step ensures that your pimento cheese will have a beautiful creamy consistency.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the drained and finely chopped pimentos, mayonnaise, buttermilk (or milk), yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the bowl. **Remember to drain the pimentos well to prevent excess moisture from making the pimento cheese too watery.**
Mix Gently: Gently fold all the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and creamy. **Avoid overmixing**, as this can incorporate too much air and make the pimento cheese too thin. A smooth, creamy consistency is the goal. You want a texture that’s spreadable, not runny.
Season to Taste: Season the pimento cheese with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve your desired level of saltiness and pepperiness. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away!
Chill (Optional but Recommended): For the best flavor, refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is highly recommended, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it and serve it immediately. However, chilling will greatly enhance the overall taste experience.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Creamy Dreamy Pimento Cheese chilled. Enjoy it with crackers, bread, vegetables (like celery sticks or bell pepper slices), or as a sandwich spread. It’s incredibly versatile and will be a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. These caprese skewers would be the perfect accompaniment!

Tips and Variations for Your Pimento Cheese

Here are some tips and variations to make your pimento cheese even better:

Spice it Up: For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. This can transform your pimento cheese into a spicy delight.
Add Some Crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans, walnuts, or even bacon bits for added texture and flavor. This will give your pimento cheese an amazing contrasting texture.
Herby Delight: Add some fresh herbs like chives, dill, or parsley for a fresh, herbaceous twist. A tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs can add a nice touch.
Different Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even a smoky Gouda, can create unique flavor profiles. You can also try using pepper jack cheese for some heat.
Vegan Pimento Cheese: Substitute the cheddar and cream cheese with vegan alternatives. There are many great vegan cheeses available that can work well in this recipe. You could use a vegan cheddar and a vegan cream cheese. You can also add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure your crackers or bread are also gluten-free if needed. This is a good option for those who follow gluten-free diets.
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can result in a watery, less creamy pimento cheese. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Overmixing will lead to a less desirable texture, so remember to mix gently.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Some cheeses are saltier than others, so you might need to adjust the amount of salt accordingly. The perfect seasoning balance is key for the best pimento cheese.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Pimento Cheese

While pimento cheese is undeniably indulgent, it’s also a surprisingly good source of several essential nutrients. The nutritional information below is an approximation and may vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. Always check the nutritional labels of your specific ingredients.

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 1/4 cup):

Calories: Approximately 200-250
Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams
Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7 grams

Benefits of Ingredients:

Cheddar Cheese: A good source of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth. It also contains protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues.
Cream Cheese: Rich in calcium and provides a good source of protein. However, it’s also relatively high in fat, so it should be consumed in moderation.
Pimentos: A good source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system.
Buttermilk: Contains probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.

Remember, pimento cheese is best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. It is not intended as a health food but as a delicious and satisfying indulgence.

FAQs

How long does pimento cheese last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, pimento cheese will last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. After that time, it’s best to discard it.

Can I freeze pimento cheese?

While you can freeze pimento cheese, the texture might change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if freezing is necessary, use an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.

What are some good alternatives to buttermilk in pimento cheese?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with milk or plain yogurt. Milk will provide a slightly less tangy flavor than buttermilk, while yogurt will add more creaminess and tang.

Is this pimento cheese recipe vegan?

No, this recipe is not vegan as it uses dairy products (cheddar and cream cheese). However, you can easily adapt it by using vegan cheddar and cream cheese alternatives.

What can I serve pimento cheese with?

Pimento cheese is incredibly versatile! Serve it with crackers, bread, vegetables, as a sandwich spread, or even as a burger topping. The possibilities are endless!

This Creamy Dreamy Pimento Cheese recipe is a testament to the simple pleasures in life. The combination of sharp cheddar, creamy cream cheese, and sweet pimentos creates a flavor explosion that’s both classic and contemporary. It’s the perfect appetizer, party snack, or sandwich spread, and its ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. We encourage you to try it, share it with your loved ones, and let us know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to share your pimento cheese creations on Pinterest! Check out our Pinterest board for more inspiration! And for more delicious recipes, be sure to check out our other amazing dishes, like our Creamy Lasagna Soup or our One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! Happy cooking!