Pimento Cheese Recipe

Large shallow mixing bowl filled with pimento cheese dip garnished with freshly chopped chives and served with crackers on the side.

4.95 from 17 votes

This quick and easy Southern Pimento Cheese, or "Southern pâté," is a creamy and delicious cheese dip made with a flavorful combination of cream cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, and shredded cheddar cheese. It is a must-have appetizer or snack for game days and holidays and wonderful on crackers or spread over sandwiches.

Prep Time10

Chill Time30

Total Time40

Servings: cups

Calories: 838kcal

Chef: Jessica Randhawa

Ingredients

▢ 8 ounces cream cheese - at room temperature
▢ ½ cup mayonnaise
▢ ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
▢ ½ teaspoon salt
▢ ½ teaspoon Ground black pepper
▢ 4 ounces diced jarred pimentos - drained
▢ 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese - freshly shredded
▢ fresh chives - chopped, to garnish

Instructions

In a large bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and the mayonnaise until combined, then stir in the paprika, salt, and black pepper (tip: for a fluffier pimento cheese dip, use a hand mixer to mix the mayo, cream cheese, and seasonings).
Add the diced pimentos and shredded cheese to the mixing bowl and fold into the mayo cheese mixture.
Cover and transfer to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 30 minutes or up to two hours to allow the dip to set and the flavors to meld together.
Garnish with fresh chives, if desired.

Notes

Keep leftovers stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
If you like a little heat, try adding fresh or pickled jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce.
Nutritional information is per cup.

Nutrition

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