Quick And Easy Pimento Cheese Recipe
This Quick and Easy Pimento Cheese combines sharp cheddar, cream cheese, mayonnaise and diced pimentos with the flavorful heat of Blazing Star BBQ Reaper Rub.
Serve it as a dip with crackers and vegetables, spread it onto sandwiches or burgers, or add it to your next barbecue spread. It comes together in minutes, but chilling it before serving gives the flavors time to blend.
Quick and Easy Pimento Cheese Recipe
|
Prep Time 5 minutes |
Chill Time 30 minutes |
|
Servings 8 |
Difficulty Very easy |
Ingredients
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup diced pimentos, drained
- 1 teaspoon Blazing Star BBQ Reaper Rub
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt, adjusted to taste
Instructions
- Combine the creamy ingredients. Add the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise to a mixing bowl. Stir until smooth and evenly combined.
- Add the remaining ingredients. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, drained pimentos, garlic powder and Blazing Star BBQ Reaper Rub.
- Mix the pimento cheese. Stir until the cheese, pimentos and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Adjust the seasoning. Taste the mixture and add a pinch of salt or additional Reaper Rub if desired.
- Chill before serving. Cover and refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can blend. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Pimento Cheese
- Shred the cheddar from a block for the smoothest texture. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking ingredients that can make the mixture less creamy.
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature so it mixes easily with the mayonnaise.
- Drain the pimentos thoroughly to prevent excess liquid from thinning the mixture.
- Start with 1 teaspoon of Reaper Rub and add more only after tasting.
- Chill the pimento cheese for at least 30 minutes before serving to give the flavors time to develop.
- If the mixture becomes too firm in the refrigerator, let it rest at room temperature for several minutes before serving.
Ways to Serve Pimento Cheese
- Serve it as a dip with crackers, pretzels or fresh vegetables.
- Spread it on sandwiches, burgers or grilled bread.
- Use it as a filling for jalapeño poppers.
- Add it to a barbecue appetizer board.
- Use it to make a spicy grilled cheese sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is this pimento cheese?
The Reaper Rub gives it noticeable heat, but the cheddar, cream cheese and mayonnaise help balance the spice. You can adjust the amount based on your preferred heat level.
How long does homemade pimento cheese last?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use it within approximately five days.
Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time?
Yes. It is an excellent make-ahead appetizer because the flavor improves after it has rested in the refrigerator.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but freshly shredded cheddar produces a smoother and creamier texture.
Should pimento cheese be served cold?
It can be served chilled or allowed to soften slightly at room temperature. Do not leave it unrefrigerated for extended periods.
What can I substitute for Reaper Rub?
For a milder version, use Blazing Star BBQ Pork’n Rub. For even more heat, substitute Blazing Star BBQ Scorpion Rub.
Shop the Flavor
- Blazing Star BBQ Reaper Rub and Seasoning
- Blazing Star BBQ Pork’n Rub and Seasoning
- Blazing Star BBQ Scorpion Rub and Seasoning
- Shop Blazing Star BBQ on Amazon
More Recipes to Try
