Ultimate Southern Pimiento Cheese Delight
This Ultimate Southern Pimiento Cheese Delight is the decadent spread that will steal the show at any gathering. A beloved staple from the heart of the South, this recipe combines creamy mayonnaise and tangy cream cheese with the rich flavors of sharp cheddar cheese and crunchy pecan bits. Enhanced with minced garlic, fresh parsley, and a few drops of Tabasco sauce for a gentle kick, this spread is irresistible on crackers and perfect for parties. It’s easy to double, making it ideal for holiday celebrations, potlucks, or cozy gatherings with friends and family. Prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors meld for a truly unforgettable taste experience.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
mayonnaise
1/4 cup (none)
cream cheese
3 ounces (softened)
garlic clove
1-2 (minced)
flat leaf parsley
1/4 cup (chopped)
Tabasco sauce
6-8 drops (none)
pimientos
1 (2 ounce) jar (undrained)
sharp cheddar cheese
3 cups (finely shredded)
pecan chips
1 cup (none)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a food processor, combine mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, chopped flat leaf parsley, and Tabasco sauce.
2
Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse until just combined.
3
Add the undrained pimientos, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and pecan chips into the mixture.
4
Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly, ensuring the cheese and pimientos are well incorporated.
5
Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or container. Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
6
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
7
Serve chilled or at room temperature with your favorite crackers, vegetables, or as a delectable sandwich spread.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ultimate Southern Pimiento Cheese Delight?
It is a decadent Southern spread that combines creamy mayonnaise and tangy cream cheese with sharp cheddar and crunchy pecan bits.
How much mayonnaise is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of mayonnaise.
What kind of cream cheese should I use?
You should use 3 ounces of cream cheese, and it should be softened before mixing.
How much garlic is included in the spread?
The recipe uses 1 to 2 minced garlic cloves.
What type of parsley is best for this recipe?
Use 1/4 cup of chopped flat leaf parsley for the best flavor.
How much Tabasco sauce should I add?
Add 6 to 8 drops of Tabasco sauce for a gentle kick.
Do I need to drain the pimientos?
No, use one 2-ounce jar of undrained pimientos.
What kind of cheddar cheese is recommended?
The recipe specifies 3 cups of finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
How many pecans are in the recipe?
The spread includes 1 cup of pecan chips.
Can I use a food processor to make this?
Yes, you can combine the base ingredients in a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a food processor.
How do I achieve a smooth texture?
Blend the mayonnaise, cream cheese, garlic, parsley, and Tabasco until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Can I make a chunkier version of this spread?
Yes, simply pulse the base ingredients until just combined rather than blending until smooth.
When do I add the pimientos and cheese?
Add the pimientos, shredded cheese, and pecan chips after the base mixture is blended.
How should I incorporate the cheese and nuts?
Stir them gently into the mixture to ensure they are evenly incorporated without over-processing.
How long does the pimiento cheese need to refrigerate?
It should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours, though overnight is ideal.
Why does the recipe recommend chilling?
Chilling allows the various flavors to meld together perfectly for an unforgettable taste.
How should I store the spread?
Transfer it to a serving bowl or container and cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
What are some serving suggestions?
Serve it chilled or at room temperature with crackers, vegetables, or as a sandwich spread.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, it is specifically described as an ideal appetizer for holiday celebrations, potlucks, and gatherings.
Can the recipe be doubled?
Yes, it is very easy to double if you are hosting a larger group.
What makes this 'Ultimate Southern' style?
The addition of pecan bits and the use of both cream cheese and sharp cheddar give it a rich, traditional Southern profile.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 total ingredients used in this recipe.
What are the primary tags for this recipe?
Tags include pimiento cheese, spread, southern recipe, entertaining, dip, and cheddar cheese.
Can I serve this at room temperature?
Yes, while it should be stored in the fridge, it can be served chilled or at room temperature.
What preparation is needed for the cheddar cheese?
The sharp cheddar cheese should be finely shredded.
What preparation is needed for the garlic?
The garlic cloves should be minced before being added to the base.
Does this recipe contain nuts?
Yes, it contains 1 cup of pecan chips.
Is there a specific way to cover the bowl?
The recipe suggests covering the container tightly with plastic wrap.
What provides the tangy flavor in the base?
The combination of mayonnaise and tangy cream cheese provides the base flavor.
Is the garlic flavor very strong?
With 1-2 cloves, it provides a balanced flavor enhanced by the melding process during refrigeration.