Southern Pimiento Cheese Melts
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Southern Pimiento Cheese Melts, a delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. This mouthwatering dish combines sharp cheddar cheese and tangy diced pimentos, mixed with mayonnaise and seasoned to perfection for a burst of flavor in every bite. Layered with fresh, juicy tomatoes and nestled between hearty slices of pumpernickel bread, these grilled sandwiches are expertly browned in butter for an irresistibly crispy texture. Perfect for a cozy lunch or satisfying snack, this recipe is simple enough for weeknights while impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Enjoy the warm, gooey comfort of this beloved Southern classic!
4
Servings
300
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
shredded cheddar cheese
8 ounces (shredded)
diced pimentos
4 ounces (drained)
mayonnaise
1/2 cup (none)
garlic salt
to taste (none)
Louisiana hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon (none)
tomatoes
1 (thinly sliced)
pumpernickel bread
8 slices (none)
butter
as needed (softened)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, mayonnaise, garlic salt, and Louisiana hot sauce. Stir until thoroughly mixed and creamy.
2
Spread about 1/2 cup of the pimiento cheese mixture generously on one side of each of the 4 slices of pumpernickel bread.
3
Layer 2-3 slices of fresh tomato on top of the cheese mixture on each of the 4 slices.
4
Finish by placing the remaining slices of pumpernickel bread on top, cheese side down, to create four sandwiches.
5
In a non-stick skillet, heat a small amount of softened butter over medium-high heat. Once melted and bubbling, carefully place sandwiches in the skillet.
6
Cook each sandwich for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy, ensuring the cheese melts beautifully.
7
Remove from skillet, slice in half if desired, and serve warm.
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
20g
Carbs
10g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Southern Pimiento Cheese Melts?
Southern Pimiento Cheese Melts are an elevated grilled cheese sandwich featuring a creamy mixture of sharp cheddar, pimentos, and mayonnaise, grilled with fresh tomato slices on pumpernickel bread.
What kind of cheese is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese, ideally sharp cheddar for the best flavor profile.
Do I need to drain the pimentos?
Yes, the 4 ounces of diced pimentos should be drained before being mixed with the cheese and mayonnaise.
What type of bread works best?
This specific recipe uses pumpernickel bread, which provides a hearty flavor that complements the sharp cheddar.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving of these melts contains 300 calories.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
How long does it take to cook the sandwiches?
Each sandwich should be cooked for approximately 3-4 minutes per side in a skillet.
How much pimiento cheese mixture goes on each sandwich?
You should spread about 1/2 cup of the pimiento cheese mixture on each of the four sandwiches.
What seasonings are added to the cheese mixture?
The mixture is seasoned with garlic salt to taste and 1/2 teaspoon of Louisiana hot sauce.
How many sandwiches does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings, which equals 4 full sandwiches.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 20 grams of fat per serving.
Can I use a different type of hot sauce?
Yes, while Louisiana hot sauce is suggested, you can substitute it with your preferred brand of hot sauce.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
Each serving contains 20 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in a Southern Pimiento Cheese Melt?
Each serving provides 10 grams of protein.
Do I need to use butter for grilling?
Yes, the recipe uses softened butter in the skillet to achieve a golden brown and crispy texture.
How should the tomatoes be prepared?
The tomatoes should be thinly sliced, with 2-3 slices placed inside each sandwich.
What temperature should the skillet be?
The skillet should be heated over medium-high heat for optimal browning.
Can I make the cheese mixture in advance?
Yes, you can mix the cheddar, pimentos, and mayonnaise ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The serving size is one full sandwich.
Is this a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy and quick recipe, perfect for a fast lunch or snack.
What makes this a 'Southern' recipe?
Pimiento cheese is a classic staple of Southern American cuisine, often referred to as the 'pate of the South'.
What is the primary flavor of the sandwich?
The flavor is a combination of rich, sharp cheddar cheese, tangy pimentos, and a slight kick from the hot sauce.
Does the recipe contain fiber?
The specific nutritional data for fiber is not provided in this recipe.
What category does this dish fall under?
It is categorized under Lunch/Snacks.
Can I substitute the pumpernickel bread?
While pumpernickel is recommended, you could use sourdough or rye as alternatives.
How much mayonnaise is used in the mixture?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of mayonnaise.
Is the garlic salt measurement specific?
No, the garlic salt should be added 'to taste' depending on your preference.
What texture should the cheese mixture have?
The mixture should be stirred until it is thoroughly mixed and creamy.
How many slices of bread are needed in total?
You will need 8 slices of pumpernickel bread to make 4 sandwiches.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 8 main ingredients used in this recipe.