Appetizer: United States – Southern United States (Alabama) – Pimento Cheese Spread

Serving Size: 8

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 0 min

Additional 2 hrs

Total 2 hrs 15 min

Ingredients

- 8 oz (227 g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) mayonnaise (full-fat preferred)
- 1 (4 oz / 113 g) jar diced pimentos, drained
- 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened (optional; common in Alabama preparations)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp (5 ml) hot sauce (Crystal, Texas Pete, or Tabasco), plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) kosher salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/8 tsp (0.5 ml) cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Crackers and celery, for serving

Instructions

Short Description:
A creamy, tangy Southern spread made from sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos, served as a dip or sandwich filling. This Alabama-style version balances sharp cheese and mayo with a touch of hot sauce and savory seasoning for a lively bite.

Regional Notes:
Alabama pimento cheese emphasizes sharp cheddar and a mayo-forward creaminess; many local cooks add a little hot sauce (Crystal or similar) and pantry spices rather than relying on milder cheeses. This keeps the spread bright and slightly tangy compared with milder regional variants.

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese (if using) with the mayonnaise until smooth and homogenous. If not using cream cheese, stir the mayonnaise alone until silky.
2. Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar, drained diced pimentos, and sliced green onions until evenly distributed.
3. Stir in the hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning or hot sauce to preference.
4. Transfer the spread to a covered container, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent drying, and chill at least 1 hour (preferably 2–4 hours) to let flavors meld.
5. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature with crackers and celery. Store leftovers refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 4 days; stir before serving.