Appetizer: United States – North Carolina – Pimento Cheese

Serving Size: 6

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 0 min

Additional 1 hr

Total 1 hr 15 min

Ingredients

- 8 oz (225 g) sharp cheddar cheese, coarsely shredded
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
- 4 oz (115 g) jarred pimentos, drained and chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 1–2 tbsp (15–30 ml) pickled jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp (30 g) finely chopped green onion (scallion)
- 1 tsp (5 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) hot sauce (optional)
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 g) smoked paprika or sweet paprika
- 1/4 tsp (1.5 g) kosher salt, adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp (0.5 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) buttermilk or milk, as needed to loosen (optional)
- Crackers, toasted bread, or raw vegetables, for serving

Instructions

Short Description:
A creamy, tangy Southern spread made from sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimentos, served as a dip or spread for crackers and bread. This version includes optional jalapeño for a North Carolina spicy edge.

Regional Notes:
North Carolina pimento cheese emphasizes sharp cheddar and a mayonnaise base, often loosened slightly with a splash of milk or buttermilk and finished with Worcestershire and hot sauce. Local variations commonly add pickled jalapeño or green onion for extra heat and brightness; it is served as a cracker dip, sandwich spread, or picnic staple.

1. Grate the sharp cheddar and set aside. Soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for 10–15 minutes or microwaving in 5-second bursts until just spreadable.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise together with a fork or spatula until smooth and well combined.
3. Fold in the shredded cheddar, chopped pimentos, chopped jalapeño (if using), and green onion until evenly distributed.
4. Add the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine. If the spread seems too thick, stir in 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) buttermilk or milk to reach desired spreadable consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, hot sauce, or jalapeño for heat as preferred.
6. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld. Before serving, stir once more and transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or a few extra chopped scallions or jalapeño slices if desired.
7. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature with crackers, toasted bread, or raw vegetables as an appetizer or spread.