Here’s a crowd‑pleasing pimento‑cheese dip that stays true to its Southern roots yet mixes in a few chef‑tested tweaks for extra depth. All measurements are for one party bowl (about 3 cups) but double easily.
PrintPimento Cheese Dip
There’s a certain magic that happens when sharp cheddar, a swipe of tangy Duke’s‑style mayo, and ruby‑red pimentos mingle in one humble bowl. Pimento cheese is Southern comfort dressed for a porch party—equal parts nostalgic and irresistibly creamy. Around here we call it “gather‑round dip,” because the moment it hits the table, cousins, neighbors, and newcomers circle up with butter crackers in hand.
Our Joyista take leans into bright flavor and effortless charm: two cheddars grated fresh for real bite, a whisper of cream cheese for velvety body, and a playful flicker of cayenne that lingers just long enough to make you reach for another scoop. Stir it together in ten minutes, let it chill while you set the playlist, and this spread is ready to crown burgers, tuck into tea sandwiches, or shine on its own alongside crisp celery sticks.
Simple, shareable, and made with love—because nothing says “welcome to the gathering” quite like a bowl of pimento cheese shared under twinkling patio lights.
- Prep Time: 10
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 10 minutes + chill time
- Yield: 3 cups 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
8 oz sharp yellow Cheddar cheese, freshly grated
4 oz extra‑sharp white Cheddar cheese, freshly grated
3 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s‑style or homemade preferred)
1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, well‑drained
1 Tbsp finely grated yellow onion or 1/4 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 small jalapeño, minced and seeded for extra kick
Instructions
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Beat base. In a medium bowl, whip softened cream cheese until light; blend in mayo until smooth
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Add flavorings. Stir in grated onion, Worcestershire, garlic powder and cayenne.
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Fold cheeses & pimentos. Add both Cheddars plus drained pimentos; mix gently with a spatula so shreds stay distinct.
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Season. Taste; adjust salt, pepper and heat level. Remember the heat will develop after setting.
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Chill. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour so flavors develop. Keeps up to 1 week refrigerated.
Notes
Serving Ideas
- Classic with butter crackers or fresh vegetable sticks
- Spoon on burgers for a topping
- Excellent sandwich – try as grilled cheese sandwich
- Stuff into mini phyllo cups and bake 10 minutes at 350 °F for bite‑size hors d’oeuvres.
Tips and variations:
- Grate your own cheese – pre-shred is coated with anti-caking agents that dulls flavor and clumps.
- Drain pimentos thoroughly – reduces water drip keeping the creamy texture
- Duke’s Mayo – A Southern tradition is more tangy, as a former Northerner i know you can’t find Duke’s at all grocery stores. For this recipe add a splash of vinegar (1/2 teaspoon) to the 1/2 cup mayo to give it that southern tang.
- Jalapeno or smoked paprika twist – converts into a spicier spread.
- Recipe should keep beautifully refrigerated for 7 days in sealed container.
- Before serving give the dish one quick stir; if it feels stiff, let it sit for 10 minutes at room temperature.
And there you have it—Joyista‑style pimento‑cheese perfection, ready to spark smiles at the very first swipe. Of course, every family has its own secret swirl: maybe yours sneaks in smoked paprika, swaps jalapeño for pickled okra, or leans extra‑creamy with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Tell me—what twist does your crew swear by? Drop your favorite adaptation in the comments so we can keep passing the bowl (and the inspiration) around the table. 💙
Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 4