Southern Cheese Spread

Name: Southern Cheese Spread
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb sharp Cheddar cheese, grated; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, drained; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/4 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook:

🍽 Serves: 10

★★★★★

Be the First to Review!

Southern Cheese Spread, also known as pimento cheese, is a delightful staple of Southern cuisine that's both savory and slightly spicy. Perfect for gatherings or a casual snack, this spread is a testament to the charm of Southern hospitality.

Save Print Jump to Recipe

Ingredients for Southern Cheese Spread

The heart of this dish is the sharp Cheddar cheese, which provides a robust flavor and creamy texture. Mayonnaise lends a smooth, rich base that binds everything together. Pimentos add a sweet, tangy note and a touch of color. The garlic powder and onion powder bring depth and aroma, while a hint of cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat. A pinch of salt and black pepper rounds off the flavors, balancing the cheese and spices beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

Grate your cheese by hand for a better texture—pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste. If you're spice-averse, start with less and add more if desired.
Let the spread sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to make it easier to spread.

Serving Suggestions

This cheese spread shines as a dip with crispy crackers or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots. For a more substantial bite, try it as a filling in sandwiches or as a topping on burgers for an extra layer of flavor. It's also a great addition to a cheese platter during gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?: Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder flavor.
How long will it keep in the fridge?: Stored in an airtight container, this spread will stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?: You can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese as a substitute, but it will alter the taste and texture slightly.

Southern Cheese Spread Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grating the sharp Cheddar cheese into a large mixing bowl. This will be the base of your spread, so make sure it's nice and fluffy. Next, fold in one cup of mayonnaise. Stir the two together until they're well combined, creating a creamy mixture.

Once your base is ready, add the drained pimentos. These little guys will add a pop of color and a sweet, mild flavor. Mix them in until they're evenly distributed throughout the cheese and mayo mixture.

Now, it's time to season. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring the spices are thoroughly blended into the mixture.

After mixing, cover the bowl and pop it into the fridge for at least an hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, making the spread even more delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

A quick and easy appetizer that can be prepared in advance.
Rich and creamy with a subtle kick from cayenne pepper.
Versatile for any occasion—serve it with crackers, veggies, or on a sandwich.

Ingredients

1 lb sharp Cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup mayonnaise

1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, drained

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

1/4 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine grated sharp Cheddar cheese and mayonnaise.

2. Add the drained diced pimentos to the mixture.

3. Sprinkle in garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

4. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and the mixture is smooth.