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Jalapeño Pimento Cheese

Jalapeño Pimento Cheese

Jalapeño Pimento Cheese is a creamy, flavorful Southern-inspired spread that combines sharp cheddar cheese with fresh jalapeños, pimentos, and spices. Perfect for serving as a dip, sandwich spread, or appetizer, it delivers a delightful balance of heat and creaminess, making it an irresistible snack for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Cheeses

  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened

Vegetables

  • 2 tablespoons pimentos, chopped
  • 1 fresh jalapeño, diced (seeds removed for less heat)

Other Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Grate the sharp cheddar cheese finely, dice the fresh jalapeños (remove seeds if you prefer less heat), and chop the pimentos. This ensures even distribution of flavors and smooth texture.
  2. Mix the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise using a spatula or mixer until smooth and creamy to form the rich base.
  3. Add Cheeses and Vegetables: Fold in the grated cheddar, diced jalapeños, and chopped pimentos carefully. Stir until evenly mixed but avoid overmixing to keep some texture.
  4. Season and Taste: Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently and taste, adjusting seasonings or spice level as desired.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the Jalapeño Pimento Cheese for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and intensify. Serve chilled for the best creamy texture and balanced heat.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for a deep, tangy flavor that balances the creaminess.
  • Remove jalapeño seeds to control the spice level effectively.
  • Chilling the spread helps flavors meld and improves spreadability.
  • Fresh jalapeños provide brighter flavor compared to jarred ones.
  • Adjust creaminess by adding extra mayo or cream cheese gradually.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0.2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: jalapeño pimento cheese, pimento cheese spread, spicy cheese dip, southern appetizer, creamy cheese spread