Creamy Pimento Cheese with Cream Cheese is a staple in Southern cuisine, known for its rich and satisfying flavor. This delectable spread can be used in various dishes and as a delightful addition to any party. Made with a variety of cheeses, pimentos, and delicious seasonings, this savory concoction is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create your creamy pimento cheese spread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup extra sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces pimento peppers, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup green onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating your Creamy Pimento Cheese with Cream Cheese spread:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and have a smooth consistency.
2. Add the shredded sharp cheddar and extra sharp white cheddar cheeses to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until the cheeses are thoroughly combined with the cream cheese mixture.
3. Fold in the drained and chopped pimento peppers and finely chopped green onion, stirring until fully incorporated and evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. For optimal flavor, cover the creamy pimento cheese and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This will allow the flavors to meld together and develop a richer taste.
5. Serve your Creamy Pimento Cheese with Cream Cheese with crackers, toasted bread, or use as a spread to create delicious sandwiches, wraps, and more.
History and Cultural Significance
Pimento cheese is a dish steeped in Southern American history, tracing back to the early 20th century. The origins of the dish coincide with the invention of cream cheese and the mass production of pimentos, which provided the ideal opportunity for these two ingredients to be combined to create a flavorful spread.
This well-loved spread quickly became a Southern staple and was often referred to as the “caviar of the South.” Over the years, it has evolved into many different variations, with some including additional ingredients like jalapenos, dill pickles, or even bacon. However, the core ingredients – cheddar cheese, pimento peppers, and cream cheese – have remained the same.
Creamy Pimento Cheese with Cream Cheese is more than just a tasty snack in Southern culture. It’s also symbolic of warm gatherings, family, and hospitality. No matter the occasion, this spread is sure to bring people together and leave a lasting impression on the taste buds. So, enjoy making this delicious dish and embrace the rich Southern history behind it.
