If there’s one thing my family can’t get enough of at gatherings, it’s a good bowl of pimento cheese. Growing up in the South, pimento cheese was more than just a spread—it was a symbol of hospitality, always gracing our table at every big celebration or lazy Sunday afternoon. But let me tell you, when I first tried swapping in a handful of diced jalapenos, it changed everything! This Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese recipe delivers the creamy comfort you expect, with just the right kick to keep things interesting. If you’re a fan of classic Southern recipes with a twist, you’re going to love what a few spicy peppers can do for this old favorite.
For me, making Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese isn’t just about tossing a few ingredients together. It’s about recreating that feeling of everyone crowding around the kitchen island, impatient for the first taste. My husband always jokes that he can smell the cheddar and jalapenos before he even walks in the door, and my kids are pros at sneaking crackers to steal an early scoop. I love how easy it is to whip up, especially since you don’t need to turn on the oven—just a little mixing and you’re good to go. The fact that you can make it ahead and let it chill only makes it more irresistible, since the flavors deepen and mingle together while it sits in the fridge.
This recipe is also my secret weapon for potlucks and game days. I know lots of folks turn up their noses at store-bought pimento cheese, but when you bring out this homemade version, loaded with creamy cheddar, tangy pimentos, and a little heat from jalapenos, even the skeptics come back for seconds. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable. If you prefer things milder or want to experiment with different cheeses, it’s easy to make it your own. I love seeing how friends and family put their own spin on it—sometimes with extra peppers, sometimes with a dash of hot sauce, or maybe a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth.
So, whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing party dip, a flavorful sandwich filling, or just a way to spice up your afternoon snack, this Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese delivers every time. It’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for any occasion. Go ahead and try it—let your kitchen be the place where a Southern classic gets a new, spicy life!
How to Make Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese
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What You’ll Need
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 7 oz diced pimentos, well drained
- 3 tablespoons diced jalapenos
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 16 oz cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Step-by-Step Directions
- Start by placing the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise in a large bowl. Use a sturdy spoon or hand mixer to beat them together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- Add the drained pimentos, diced jalapenos, onion powder, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir everything together until those seasonings and veggies are evenly distributed throughout the creamy base.
- Next, fold in the freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Keep mixing gently until every bit of cheese is coated and the mixture looks well combined—don’t overmix, just enough to bring it all together.
- You can scoop the Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese into a serving bowl and dig in right away, but for the best flavor, cover it and let it chill in the fridge for at least a couple of hours. This lets all the flavors blend beautifully. Serve cold or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Creative Substitutions to Suit Your Taste
If you’re out of cream cheese, try using Neufchatel or even Greek yogurt for a lighter twist. No fresh jalapenos? Substitute pickled jalapenos or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat. Feel free to swap in Monterey Jack, pepper Jack, or Colby cheese for the cheddar, or use vegan cheese for a dairy-free version. You can also use sour cream in place of mayonnaise for a tangier flavor.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Make sure the dip is tightly covered to prevent it from absorbing other fridge flavors. If you’re prepping ahead, this spread can be made a day or two in advance—just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the texture. Freezing isn’t recommended, as the mayo and cheese don’t thaw well, but you shouldn’t have leftovers for long!
Perfect Pairings for Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese
This spicy cheese spread is delicious with buttery crackers, toasted baguette slices, or crisp vegetable sticks like celery and carrots. It also makes a fantastic filling for sandwiches, burgers, or grilled cheese. For a Southern-style snack, try it with warm biscuits or spread onto a slice of cornbread. Pair with sweet iced tea or a light, crisp beer to balance the heat.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese
Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps. Always use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor—pre-shredded cheese has additives that can make the spread less creamy. Adjust the amount of jalapenos to suit your heat preference, and taste as you go. For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of pickle juice. Letting the spread chill for a few hours helps the flavors develop even more!
Adding a Seasonal Spin to Your Cheese Spread
In spring, stir in fresh chives or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. During summer, swap the pimentos with roasted red peppers or use garden-fresh jalapenos for extra brightness. In fall, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for warmth. Around the holidays, mix in chopped pecans or a handful of cranberries for a festive touch. You can always customize the recipe with whatever’s fresh and in season!
FAQs:
Can I make Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this spread tastes even better when made ahead. Just cover and refrigerate it for a few hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Give it a good stir before serving. Stored properly, it keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Is this spread very spicy?
The heat level all depends on the jalapenos. Using pickled jalapenos makes it milder, while fresh ones give a bit more kick. You can easily adjust by adding more or less jalapeno, or use a milder pepper if serving to kids or anyone sensitive to spice.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of shredding my own?
While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the spread. For the best texture and flavor, I recommend shredding your own cheddar. It melts smoother and gives a fresher taste to your Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese.
What can I do if my Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese is too thick?
If your spread turns out a bit too thick, simply stir in a little extra mayonnaise, sour cream, or even a splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency. Add the liquid slowly, mixing well after each addition, so you don’t overdo it.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter or lower in fat?
Yes! You can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and light mayonnaise, or even a mixture of Greek yogurt with either. The result will be just as creamy but with less fat and fewer calories. Just be sure to taste and adjust seasonings, as lighter ingredients can change the overall flavor balance.
How can I use Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese besides as a dip?
This versatile spread is fantastic as a sandwich filling, burger topping, or even stuffed into celery or mini peppers. Try melting it over baked potatoes, mixing it into scrambled eggs, or using it as a bold, cheesy base for homemade quesadillas or grilled cheese sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!
Jalapeno Pimento and Cheese
Equipment
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 7 ounces diced pimentos drained
- 3 tablespoons diced jalapenos
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 16 ounces cheddar cheese freshly shredded, any type
Instructions
For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and mayonnaise until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Stir in the drained pimentos, diced jalapenos, onion powder, and black pepper. Ensure everything is well incorporated.
For the Cheddar Cheese:
- Gently fold in the freshly shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well mixed.
- You can serve the mixture immediately, or for enhanced flavor, cover it and refrigerate for several hours.
