Description
Pimento Cheese Delight stands out as a delectable cheese spread that is as versatile as it is flavorful. Combining the sharpness of extra-sharp Cheddar with the creamy texture of cream cheese, this dish brings a zest of pimento peppers enhanced by a touch of spice from cayenne and jalapeño peppers. Perfect for serving at social gatherings, as an appetizer, or as a snack, this recipe promises to be a hit for those who enjoy their flavors rich and their preparations straightforward.
Ingredients
– 2 cups freshly grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 ounces pimento peppers, well-drained and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Duke’s or Sir Kensington’s recommended)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, adjust according to heat preference)
– 1 medium jalapeño pepper, deseeded and minced (optional)
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Salt, to taste
Step-by-step Directions
1. Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add the Cheddar cheese, cream cheese, pimento peppers, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and minced jalapeño (if using). Include several grinds of black pepper.
2. Mix
Using a hand mixer, stand mixer, or a robust spoon, mix the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and creamy.
3. Season
Sample the spread and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt for flavor, black pepper for sharpness, or cayenne pepper for additional heat.
4. Serve or Store
Transfer the pimento cheese into a serving dish if serving immediately, or cover it and refrigerate. If stored, allow the cheese mixture to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Servings & Preparation Time
– Servings: Makes about 3 cups of spread
– Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes
– No cooking required
Tips for Storage & Reheating
– Pimento Cheese Delight can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
– It is best served at room temperature, so be sure to remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving.
– If the texture becomes too stiff from refrigeration, you can lightly stir it after letting it warm up to improve spreadability.
– Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture of the cheeses unfavorably upon thawing.
Conclusion
Pimento Cheese Delight is a staple that fits beautifully into any culinary repertoire, pairing well with crackers, fresh vegetables, or even as a hearty spread for sandwiches. This recipe is simple yet gratifying, offering a homemade answer to your appetizer and snack cravings. Its adaptable nature regarding the level of spice makes it a suitable favorite for various taste preferences, ensuring that it’s always the highlight of your dining table.
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Pimento Cheese Delight
- Total Time: 5 minute
- Yield: Makes about 3 cups of spread 1x
Description
Pimento Cheese Delight stands out as a delectable cheese spread that is as versatile as it is flavorful. Combining the sharpness of extra-sharp Cheddar with the creamy texture of cream cheese, this dish brings a zest of pimento peppers enhanced by a touch of spice from cayenne and jalapeño peppers. Perfect for serving at social gatherings, as an appetizer, or as a snack, this recipe promises to be a hit for those who enjoy their flavors rich and their preparations straightforward.
Ingredients
- 2 cups freshly grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 ounces pimento peppers, well-drained and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Duke’s or Sir Kensington’s recommended)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, adjust according to heat preference)
- 1 medium jalapeño pepper, deseeded and minced (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add the Cheddar cheese, cream cheese, pimento peppers, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and minced jalapeño (if using). Include several grinds of black pepper.
- Mix: Using a hand mixer, stand mixer, or a robust spoon, mix the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and creamy.
- Season: Sample the spread and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt for flavor, black pepper for sharpness, or cayenne pepper for additional heat.
- Serve or Store: Transfer the pimento cheese into a serving dish if serving immediately, or cover it and refrigerate. If stored, allow the cheese mixture to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: Approximately 10 minutes
- Cook Time: No cooking required