Classic Pimiento Cheese Spread

By
Linda Larsen
Linda Larsen
Linda Larsen is a journalist, quick-cooking and slow-cooking expert, and accomplished cookbook author with over 30 years of experience in testing and developing recipes.
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Updated on 02/24/22
Pimiento Cheese Sandwich
Carolyn Taylor Photography/Stockbyte/Getty Images
Prep: 25 mins
Cook: 0 mins
Total: 25 mins
Servings: 6 to 8 servings

This classic pimiento cheese spread can be used as a sandwich spread, appetizer spread, or dip that goes well with crusty French bread slices, apple slices, or crackers. It's so tasty that your guests will ask for the recipe.

If they happen to ask about pimientos, here's a little more information that you can share. Pimientos (or pimentos) are red bell peppers that have been broiled or grilled until the skins blacken. The peppers are then placed in a paper bag to steam. The skins will slip off easily after they have steamed for a few minutes, and the results are smooth, silky, and slightly smoky. You can make your own pimentos if you'd rather instead of buying prepared. Use one red bell pepper for a 4-ounce jar.

This spread will keep well in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to four days so it's ideal to make ahead for a party. If you prefer to make it as a dip, simply add enough heavy cream or mayonnaise for the right consistency. 

Ingredients

  • 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise

  • 2 tablespoons finely grated onion

  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced


  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 1/4 teaspoon celery salt

  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, or Colby cheese

  • 1 (4-ounce) jar pimientos, drained, minced

  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream, optional

Steps to Make It

  1. In a medium bowl, add the cream cheese and mayonnaise. Beat well with a mixer until smooth.

  2. Add the onion, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper. Beat well until combined.

  3. Add the cheese and beat until blended. If a dip is preferred over a spread, add heavy cream or more mayonnaise until desired consistency is reached.

  4. Gently fold in the chopped pimientos.

  5. Cover the spread tightly and refrigerate until just before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)
289 Calories
26g Fat
4g Carbs
9g Protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6 to 8
Amount per serving
Calories 289
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 26g 34%
Saturated Fat 13g 65%
Cholesterol 62mg 21%
Sodium 372mg 16%
Total Carbohydrate 4g 2%
Dietary Fiber 0g 1%
Total Sugars 2g
Protein 9g
Vitamin C 12mg 62%
Calcium 241mg 19%
Iron 1mg 3%
Potassium 109mg 2%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
(Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.)