Southern Jalapeno Pimento Cheese Recipe

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Looking for a delicious twist on a classic Southern staple? Look no further than this Jalapeno Pimento Cheese recipe! Often called the “caviar of the South,” pimento cheese is a beloved dish known for its creamy texture and versatile flavor. This version adds a spicy kick with jalapenos, making it an easy appetizer for your next gathering.

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Ingredients Needed for Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Recipe

Colby Jack Cheese

Description

Colby Jack cheese is a semi-hard cheese made from a mixture of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses. It’s known for its mild flavor and slightly creamy texture. But you can play around with other cheeses as well such as: extra sharp cheddar cheese or pepper jack for another little kick.

Purpose

Provides the creamy, cheesy base for the pimento cheese. It melts well and combines beautifully with the other ingredients.

Preparation

Grate two 8 oz blocks of Colby Jack cheese for the best texture. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese because it often contains anti-caking agents like potato starch that can affect the texture and flavor of your pimento cheese. You can use a box grater for this step, but that is a lot of cheese so I would suggest using a rotary cheese grater or this attachment for your kitchenaid. I call it my arm saver.

Mayonnaise

Description

A thick, creamy dressing made from oil, egg yolks, and an acid, either vinegar or lemon juice. Learn to make your own HERE.

Purpose

Acts as the binding agent that holds all the ingredients together, adding creaminess and richness to the dip.

Preparation

Start with 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and adjust according to your preference for creaminess. Full-fat mayo is recommended for the best flavor and texture.

Pimentos

Description

Pimentos are a type of sweet red pepper, commonly used in Southern cooking.

Purpose

Provides a sweet, tangy flavor and vibrant red color that is classic to pimento cheese.

Preparation

Use an 8 oz jar of pimentos, drained. These can be chopped if they come whole, but most jarred pimentos are already diced.

Jalapenos

Description

Jalapenos are medium-sized chili peppers with a mild to moderate amount of heat.

Purpose

Adds a spicy kick to the pimento cheese, balancing the sweetness of the pimentos and the richness of the cheese and mayonnaise.

Preparation

Chop half a cup of pickled or fresh jalapenos. Pickled jalapenos will add a tangy flavor and are less spicy than fresh jalapenos, which offer more heat and a crisp texture.

Supplies Needed for Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Recipe

• Large Bowl
• Box Grater (if grating your own cheese)
• Mixing Spoon

Detailed Instructions for Making Jalapeno Pimento Cheese

Prep Your Ingredients

Cheese Preparation

Begin by grating the Colby Jack cheese if you’re using block cheese. A box grater works best for this to achieve a uniform texture that blends smoothly with other ingredients. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese as it often contains anti-caking agents that can interfere with the consistency of the mixture.

Combine the Base Ingredients

Mixing the Base

In a large bowl, combine the grated cheese and mayonnaise. The mayo acts as a creamy binder that helps hold all the other ingredients together. Start with the initial amount and adjust later if you prefer a creamier texture.

Add Flavor Enhancers

Incorporate Pimentos and Jalapenos

Add the drained pimentos and chopped jalapenos to the bowl. Whether you use fresh or pickled jalapenos will depend on your preference for spice levels; pickled jalapenos are milder and add a tangy note, while fresh jalapenos provide a sharper heat. Mix these thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Adjust Consistency and Flavor

Adjusting the Mix

After adding the pimentos and jalapenos, assess the mixture’s consistency. If it seems too dry or stiff, gradually add more mayonnaise until you reach the desired creaminess. This step is crucial as it determines the final texture of your pimento cheese, which should be spreadable but not overly loose.

Season to Taste

Seasoning

Though not listed in the main ingredients, you may want to add a small pinch of garlic powder, salt, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavors. Each addition should be mixed in well and tasted to ensure the seasoning is just right.

Chill Before Serving

Chilling

While Jalapeno Pimento Cheese can be enjoyed immediately, letting it chill in the refrigerator for an hour or so allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other flavors from the fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Jalapeno Pimento Cheese isn’t just an easy recipe; it’s a flavorful journey through Southern cuisine. The sharpness of the Colby Jack paired with the fiery taste of jalapenos and the sweet flavor of pimentos creates a mouth-watering combination that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect served as a dip with tortilla chips, spread on celery sticks, or even as a tasty filling for jalapeno poppers.

Serving Suggestions for Jalapeno Pimento Cheese

As a Dip

Chips and Crackers

Serve it as a Jalapeno Pimento Cheese Dip with a variety of chips and crackers. The dip pairs wonderfully with everything from tortilla chips to sophisticated water crackers, offering a satisfying crunch.

Vegetable Platter

Arrange a platter of raw vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. The fresh, crisp veggies complement the creamy, spicy pimento cheese perfectly.

Spread for Sandwiches and Burgers

Sandwiches

Spread a generous layer of Jalapeno Pimento Cheese on your favorite sandwich bread to create pimento cheese sandwiches.  Add sliced tomatoes, lettuce, and cold cuts if desired. It adds a creamy, spicy twist to any sandwich.

Burgers

Before grilling your burgers, top them with a spoonful of Jalapeno Pimento Cheese. It melts beautifully and adds a rich, tangy flavor that enhances the meat.

Stuffed Appetizers

Jalapeno Poppers

Halve jalapeno peppers and remove the seeds. Stuff them with Jalapeno Pimento Cheese, wrap them in bacon if desired, and bake or grill until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Remove stems from mushrooms, stuff the caps with Jalapeno Pimento Cheese, and bake until the mushrooms are cooked through.

With Baked Goods

On Biscuits or Cornbread

Spread Jalapeno Pimento Cheese on freshly baked biscuits or cornbread. The warmth of the bread helps soften the cheese, making for a delicious and comforting treat.

Cheese Bread

Spread Jalapeno Pimento Cheese between slices of French bread, wrap in foil, and bake until the cheese is melted and gooey.

As a Topping

Baked Potatoes

Top hot baked potatoes with Jalapeno Pimento Cheese for a creamy, spicy upgrade to the usual sour cream or butter toppings.

Scrambled Eggs or Omelets

Add a dollop of Jalapeno Pimento Cheese to your morning eggs. It will melt into the eggs, adding incredible flavor and richness.

Party Food

Cheese Ball

Mix Jalapeno Pimento Cheese with a little cream cheese to help it hold shape, form into a ball, and roll in chopped nuts or bacon bits. Serve as a centerpiece for your cheese platter.

Grilled Cheese Party

Offer different types of bread and fillings including Jalapeno Pimento Cheese for guests to make their custom grilled cheese sandwiches.

Storage Tips

Store your homemade Pimento Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days. Always use a clean spoon for serving to help it stay fresh longer.

This Jalapeno Pimento Cheese recipe brings a spicy twist to a traditional favorite, making it the perfect addition to your appetizer lineup. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a new way to enjoy a Southern delicacy, this pimento cheese is sure to delight.

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