Nashville Spicy Pimento Cheese: A Fiery Southern Classic

The first time I tasted pimento cheese, I was at a backyard barbecue in Charleston, South Carolina. The hostess, a woman with a smile as warm as the humid air, insisted I try her homemade version. I remember the creamy, tangy, slightly sweet spread dolloped on a saltine cracker, and how it tasted of sunshine and Southern hospitality. It was so good, it inspired my own experimentation. But I felt it needed more of a kick. Now, this Nashville Spicy Pimento Cheese is my go-to for parties and potlucks, and it’s always the first thing to disappear. Friends even request it as Christmas gifts!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Yields: 2 Lbs Spread
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese (or 16 ounces shredded cheddar cheese)
• 1 (8 ounce) package spicy monterey jack cheese, shredded
• 1 (8 ounce) package light cream cheese (use less for a chunkier spread)
• 1 (4 ounce) jar diced pimentos, drained
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeno pepper (I use the “no heat” version)
• Spices, to taste (salt & pepper, etc.)
• Frank’s Original Red Hot Sauce (about 1 tlbsp)
• 1/4 cup drained sun-dried tomato (optional, if you like them)
• 1/4 cup light mayonnaise (more if you like it really creamy)

Equipment Needed

• Large bowl
• Food processor

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the shredded cheddar cheese and shredded spicy Monterey Jack cheese. This ensures even distribution of flavors and textures in the final product.

2. In a food processor, blend the softened light cream cheese, drained diced pimentos, and pickled jalapenos until smooth. Pulse a few times first, then blend continuously until the mixture is creamy. If you desire a sweeter tang, add the sun-dried tomatoes (drained) into the food processor with the other ingredients in this step.

3. Combine the shredded cheese mixture and the cream cheese mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula or your hands to thoroughly blend the two until evenly combined.

4. Add the light mayonnaise and Frank’s Original Red Hot Sauce. Stir until well incorporated. The mayonnaise adds creaminess and binds the ingredients together, while the hot sauce provides the signature Nashville kick.

5. Season to taste with additional spices, such as salt and pepper. Remember to start with a small amount and gradually increase to your liking. Taste the pimento cheese after each addition to achieve the perfect balance.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Cheese Selection is Key: Using high-quality, sharp cheddar is essential for that signature pimento cheese tang. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly into the spread. If you can find a good local cheddar, even better!
• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before blending. This will prevent lumps and create a smoother, more consistent texture. If you forget, you can microwave it in 15-second intervals, but be careful not to melt it.
• Spice Level Control: The amount of hot sauce is a matter of personal preference. Start with a tablespoon and add more gradually until you achieve your desired level of heat. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away! For a milder version, use sweet pickled peppers instead of jalapenos.
• Texture Matters: If you prefer a chunkier pimento cheese, reserve some of the shredded cheese and add it in after blending the cream cheese mixture. You can also use less cream cheese for a firmer consistency.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This pimento cheese is even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld. Make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
• No Food Processor? If you don’t have a food processor, you can still make this recipe. Just ensure the cream cheese is very soft and mash the pimentos and jalapenos finely with a fork before combining all the ingredients.
• Sun-dried Tomato Tip: If you decide to use the sun-dried tomatoes, opt for the oil-packed variety, but be sure to drain them well before adding them to the food processor.
• Adjusting Creaminess: Add mayonnaise a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired creaminess. Some people prefer a drier, more crumbly pimento cheese, while others like it very smooth and spreadable.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Nashville Spicy Pimento Cheese is incredibly versatile. It’s fantastic served with:

• Crackers: Saltines, buttery crackers, or even whole-wheat crackers all work well.
• Vegetables: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, and cucumber rounds make healthy and refreshing accompaniments.
• Sandwiches: Spread it on toasted bread for a classic pimento cheese sandwich, or use it as a condiment for grilled chicken or burgers.
• Deviled Eggs: Add a dollop to your deviled eggs for an extra layer of flavor and spice.
• Grilled Cheese: Elevate your grilled cheese game by adding a layer of pimento cheese.
• Appetizer Dip: Serve with tortilla chips as a game day snack.

Storage: Store leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week. It’s best not to freeze it, as the texture can change and become grainy. Pimento cheese is best served chilled or at room temperature. Do not leave it at room temperature for more than two hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	1792.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	1336 g	75%
Total Fat	148.5 g	228%
Saturated Fat	89.1 g	445%
Cholesterol	441.8 mg	147%
Sodium	3177.7 mg	132%
Total Carbohydrate	17.1 g	5%
Dietary Fiber	2.4 g	9%
Sugars	7.6 g	30%
Protein	99.1 g	198%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Pimento Cheese: Use vegan cheddar cheese, vegan cream cheese, and vegan mayonnaise. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Smoked Pimento Cheese: Add a few drops of liquid smoke or use smoked cheddar cheese for a smoky flavor.
• Roasted Red Pepper Pimento Cheese: Substitute the diced pimentos with roasted red peppers for a sweeter flavor.
• Jalapeno Popper Pimento Cheese: Add crumbled cooked bacon and some cream cheese stuffed jalapenos.
• Greek Pimento Cheese: Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, the flavors meld together even better if you make it a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheddar, such as mild, medium, or extra sharp. You can also add other cheeses like Gruyere or Gouda for a more complex flavor.

Q: How long does this pimento cheese last?
A: Stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Nashville Spicy Pimento Cheese will last for up to a week.

Q: Can I freeze pimento cheese?
A: While you can freeze pimento cheese, the texture may change slightly and become grainy. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Q: What if I don’t like spicy food?
A: You can easily adjust the spice level by using mild pickled peppers or omitting the Frank’s Red Hot Sauce altogether. Start with a small amount and taste as you go.

Final Thoughts

Nashville Spicy Pimento Cheese is more than just a cheese spread; it’s a taste of Southern comfort with a fiery kick. It’s a recipe that’s easy to customize to your own preferences. I encourage you to try it out and adjust the ingredients to create your own signature version. Whether you’re serving it at a party, packing it for a picnic, or simply enjoying it as a snack, this pimento cheese is sure to be a hit. Share your creations and variations – I’d love to hear what you come up with! Pair it with some sweet tea or a crisp IPA for the perfect Southern experience.