The Best Pimento Cheese Sandwich Recipe
The best pimento cheese sandwich recipe, often called the “caviar of the South,” has a rich history deeply rooted in the heart of Southern cuisine. People have been eating these favorite sandwiches for generations.
A Little History
Originating in the United States in the early 20th century, this well-loved dish started as a delicacy made from the finest imported cheeses and pimento peppers. Over time, it transformed into a Southern staple, synonymous with comfort food, family gatherings, and sunny days on the golf course during the Masters Tournament.
My Tennessee mom ate this by the bucketful. There was always some pimento cheese spread in our refrigerator.
What We Love About This Recipe
- It’s a simple and versatile sandwich recipe that can take an ordinary sandwich and turn it into a gourmet experience.
- The mix of sharp cheddar cheeses with the tangy punch of pimento peppers creates an unforgettable taste.
- This recipe offers the perfect blend of creaminess and spice, making it a hit for any occasion, whether a church potluck or a fancy meal.
Ingredients:
- Sharp white cheddar cheese
- Sharp orange cheddar cheese
- Diced pimentos
- Mayonnaise
- Salt
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Cayenne pepper
A full printable recipe with measurements and instructions is listed at the bottom of the post on the recipe card.
Steps for How to Make the Perfect Pimento Cheese
- Grate your own cheese from a block of sharp cheddar for the best texture and flavor.
- Drain your diced pimentos thoroughly on paper towels to prevent a watery spread.
- Add all of the ingredients to a mixing bowl and mix thoroughly, using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, until all ingredients are well incorporated. Be sure not to overmix, or the cheese will be mushy.
- Let the pimento cheese rest in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to integrate for at least two hours.
- Add your sandwich filling between two slices of bread or to a bowl for some dip.
Storage Instructions
- Store the pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- For the best flavor, eat within a week.
Variations
- Make pimento cheese spread a dip for your next party. Add some crackers, carrots, and celery sticks on the side.
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeno peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
- Incorporate cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
- Try adding a secret ingredient like Worcestershire sauce or a spoonful of Duke’s mayonnaise for added depth to your sandwich.
- Add a vegetable charcuterie board from Skinny Taste on the side with the sandwiches.
- Make it a grilled cheese sandwich!
Tips for the Best Pimento Cheese
- Always use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese from the grocery store for the best results.
- If you add cream cheese to the mixture, let it come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Substitute red bell peppers or cherry peppers if pimento peppers are not available.
- If you’re out of mayonnaise, try using plain Greek yogurt or homemade mayonnaise for a healthier twist.
- For those who prefer a less spicy flavor, green olives or dill pickles can be a great addition instead of cayenne pepper.
Pimento cheese sandwiches started off fancy, but now they’re everyone’s go-to comfort snack. It’s pretty cool how they’ve gone from high-end to high comfort, showing off Southern cooking’s true colors along the way. Whether you’re munching on one while watching The Masters Golf tournament or just chilling at home, this easy-peasy, super tasty sandwich is a top pick for getting that Southern flavor fix.
So, have you found your best-loved way to dig into pimento cheese? Tell me your favorite way in the comments below.
The Best Pimento Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cup sharp white cheddar cheese freshly grated
- 1 ½ cup sharp orange cheddar cheese freshly grated
- 4 ounce jar of diced pimentos drained
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Grate your own cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- Drain your diced pimentos thoroughly on paper towels to prevent a watery spread.
- Add all ingredients to a medium mixing bowl and mix thoroughly, using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, until all ingredients are well incorporated. Be sure not to overmix, or the cheese will be mushy.
- Let the pimento cheese rest in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to combine for about two hours.
- Add your sandwich filling between two slices of bread.
Notes
- Best served chilled.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve if you are making it in advance.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Use sharp or extra sharp cheese for the best flavor.
- Pimento cheese has many uses. You can serve it as a dip with crackers or vegetables. It can also be served on bread as a sandwich or to top a burger.
- Using freshly grated cheese makes a more flavorful pimento cheese, and it blends better as well.
- Pimento cheese has a creamy texture with a rich and slightly tangy cheese flavor. The cayenne adds just a bit of spice.
