Dessert

Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe

Bymia larkspur November 2, 2025November 2, 2025

Introduction

Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese is a creamy, tangy spread that’s perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a flavorful snack. This classic Southern recipe combines sharp cheddar with a blend of spices and pimentos for a deliciously satisfying treat.

A clear glass jar filled with three thick layers of creamy orange pimento cheese mixed with small red bits, topped with a small pile of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. The jar sits on a white marbled surface surrounded by fresh green celery sticks, bright orange carrot sticks, and round pale crackers neatly stacked on each side. The background is clean and simple, showing white tiles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2.5 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
½ cup Mayonnaise
4 oz Pimentos, drained
½ cup Cream Cheese
¼ teaspoon Salt (more if needed)
1 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 teaspoon Onion Powder
2 teaspoons Garlic Powder with Parsley
½ teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
1 teaspoon Sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Shred the cheddar cheese and set aside.
Step 2: Measure out the mayonnaise, cream cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder with parsley, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and drained pimentos.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese with all the other ingredients.
Step 4: Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Serve immediately, or cover and chill for later use. Enjoy as a spread, dip, or snack!

Tips & Variations

For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños.
Use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
Substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise to lighten the spread.
Fresh garlic powder with parsley adds a subtle herb flavor; if unavailable, plain garlic powder works fine.

Storage

Store the pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, stir well and let it come to room temperature for easier spreading. Avoid freezing as it may change the texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a clear glass jar filled nearly to the top with a thick, creamy orange cheese spread mixed with small bits of red, likely bacon or pepper. The spread is topped with a mound of shredded orange cheddar cheese. Around the jar, there are fresh, bright green celery sticks and vibrant orange carrot sticks on a white marbled surface, along with pale round crackers to the sides. The background features a white tiled wall. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time?

Yes! Pimento cheese actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.