Appetizer: United States – Arkansas, Southern United States – Pimento Cheese Spread

Serving Size: 8

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 0 min

Additional 1 hr

Total 1 hr 15 min

Ingredients

- 8 oz (225 g) sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise (preferably a full-fat Southern-style mayo)
- 4 oz (113 g) jarred diced pimentos, drained well
- 2 tbsp (30 g) finely minced sweet onion or green onion (scallion)
- 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened (optional for a creamier spread)
- 1/4 tsp (1 g) cayenne pepper, or 1-2 tsp (5-10 ml) hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp (3 g) kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp (1 g) onion powder
- 1 tsp (5 ml) Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 2 tbsp (6 g) chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
- Crackers, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions

Short Description:
A creamy, tangy spread of sharp cheddar and diced pimentos blended with mayonnaise and a touch of heat, served as a classic Arkansas appetizer with crackers or vegetable sticks. Simple to make and best after chilling so the flavors meld.

Regional Notes:
The Arkansas version emphasizes sharp cheddar cheese and mayonnaise as the base, with drained diced pimentos folded in for sweetness and color. It is commonly given a spicy boost with cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce rather than relying on complex seasonings, and is served as a snack or starter with crackers, toasted bread, or raw vegetables.

1. Prepare ingredients: shred the sharp cheddar finely so it mixes smoothly; drain diced pimentos thoroughly; mince the onion; if using, soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the mayonnaise and softened cream cheese (if using) with a spatula or whisk until smooth and homogenous.
3. Add the shredded cheddar, drained pimentos, and minced onion to the mayo mixture. Fold gently until evenly combined.
4. Season the mixture with cayenne pepper or hot sauce, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Taste and adjust heat and salt as desired.
5. Transfer the spread to an airtight container or serving bowl, smooth the top, and sprinkle chopped chives or parsley over the surface.
6. Chill for at least 1 hour (preferably 2–4 hours) to allow flavors to meld and the spread to firm slightly. Stir briefly before serving.
7. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature with crackers, toasted bread slices, or vegetable sticks. Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 5 days.