PrintClassic Southern Pimento Cheese Dip for Derby Day
Make this sharp cheddar cheese dip from scratch. It is a perfect Southern appetizer for parties and tastes even better when made ahead.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Total Time: 15 min
- Yield: About 2 cups 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup pimentos, drained and chopped
- 1 tablespoon jarred jalapeño, minced (optional, for spicy pimento cheese recipe)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Place the grated sharp cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl.
- Add the mayonnaise, chopped pimentos, minced jalapeño (if using), Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
- Use a sturdy spoon or an electric mixer on low speed to combine all ingredients until they are fully mixed and creamy. Do not overmix.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed. You want a bold flavor profile.
- Transfer the homemade pimento cheese to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. This makes it a great make ahead party dip.
- Serve cold with crackers, celery sticks, or use it as a topping for burgers.
Notes
- For the creamiest texture, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing.
- If you want a truly Kentucky pimento cheese flavor, use a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- This dip is excellent served alongside other Southern appetizers for parties.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 Tbsp
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 25