Are you ready for a culinary kick? Look no further than our collection of 18 Spicy Pimento Cheese Recipes with a Twist! This Southern classic has gotten a serious upgrade, with bold flavors and creative twists to spice up your snack game. From comforting mac and cheese to savory grilled cheese sandwiches, we’ve got the perfect pimento cheese recipe for any occasion.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy jalapeños or rich, smoky bacon, our list has something for everyone. And don’t worry if you’re not feeling quite so bold – there are plenty of options that still pack plenty of pimento punch without going overboard on the heat.
So what are you waiting for? Dive in and discover a whole new world of spicy pimento cheese deliciousness!
Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Spread
Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Spread: A creamy, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying spread that’s perfect for crackers, sandwiches, or straight-up snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work best)
– 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green peppers (pimentos) from a jar
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
2. Add the pimentos, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and chill.
Spicy Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Dip
Spicy Jalapeño Pimento Cheese Dip Recipe
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, spicy, and addictive dip that combines the classic flavors of pimento cheese with a bold kick from jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired level of heat)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and cilantro until smooth.
3. Add diced jalapeños and stir well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and stir in lemon juice.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Burgers
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Burgers: A Twist on a Classic
Elevate your burger game with the creamy richness of pimento cheese stuffed inside juicy beef patties. This recipe is sure to be a hit at your next backyard barbecue or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup pimento cheese spread
– 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions (such as scallions or chives)
– 2 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pimento cheese spread. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly into patties.
4. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on grill or in toaster.
6. Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other toppings you desire.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Bacon and Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the addition of crispy bacon and creamy pimento cheese. This unique twist will be a hit at any gathering or party.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup pimento cheese spread
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped chives or paprika for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, pimento cheese spread, crumbled bacon, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
4. Sprinkle with chopped chives or paprika if desired.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and chill before serving.
Pimento Cheese and Pickle Sandwich
A classic Southern comfort food, this pimento cheese sandwich gets a tangy twist with the addition of crispy pickle slices. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons pimento cheese spread
– 2 slices white bread
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced dill pickles
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices.
2. Spread one slice with the pimento cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with pickle slices, slightly overlapping each other.
4. If desired, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on top of the pickles for extra creaminess.
5. Place the second bread slice on top to create a sandwich.
6. Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and enjoy!)
Pimento Cheese Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe gets a boost from the addition of pimento cheese, adding a tangy, savory flavor to the classic comfort dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated pimento cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for added color
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and stir until combined.
4. Remove from heat and add grated cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
5. Stir in pimento cheese until well combined.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Peppers
These stuffed peppers combine the creamy richness of pimento cheese with the natural sweetness of bell peppers, creating a delightful twist on traditional stuffed pepper recipes. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this satisfying side dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix pimento cheese spread with shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pimento Cheese Cornbread Muffins
Elevate your snack game with these moist and flavorful Pimento Cheese Cornbread Muffins, perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, pimento cheese spread, egg, buttermilk, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pimento Cheese Grits Casserole
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this rich and satisfying casserole, packed with the creamy flavors of pimento cheese and warm grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water or milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook grits according to package instructions, mixing in butter and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine pimento cheese spread and shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer the cooked grits, followed by the pimento cheese mixture.
5. Sprinkle chopped scallions on top (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pimento Cheese and Ham Pinwheels
A classic Southern combination of creamy pimento cheese and savory ham, wrapped up in a convenient pinwheel shape perfect for snacks or lunchboxes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup pimentos, chopped
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 slices of ham, thinly sliced
– 8 large flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, pimentos, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Lay out a tortilla and spread about 1/4 cup of the pimento cheese mixture along the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border on each side.
3. Arrange 2-3 slices of ham on top of the cheese mixture.
4. Roll up the tortilla tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a pinwheel shape.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients and serve.
Cooking Time: None, as these are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy pimento cheese-filled delight!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pimento cheese spread
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pimento cheese and softened butter until well combined.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the pimento cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top of each breast.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pimento Cheese Biscuits
These buttery biscuits are packed with the creamy goodness of pimento cheese, making them a perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup pimento cheese spread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in pimento cheese spread and heavy cream until dough forms.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out dough to about 1 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a biscuit cutter or glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pimento Cheese Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these creamy, cheesy, and utterly addictive Pimento Cheese Quesadillas. This recipe combines the richness of pimento cheese with the crunch of tortillas for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup pimento cheese (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños, or sliced black beans for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with pimento cheese.
3. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
4. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
5. Repeat with remaining tortillas and pimento cheese.
6. Cut into wedges and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pimento Cheese Potato Skins
Pimento Cheese Potato Skins: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
These creamy potato skins get an extra boost of flavor from the addition of pimento cheese, making them a perfect snack or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. Scoop out potato flesh, leaving a thin shell.
4. Mix pimento cheese spread with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Stuff each potato skin with the pimento cheese mixture, followed by chopped scallions.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Pimento Cheese and Bacon Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this creamy, savory, and sweet combination of pimento cheese and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1/4 cup pimento cheese spread
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Spread pimento cheese on top of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Add crumbled bacon on top of the cheese.
6. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Pimento Cheese Deviled Crab Cakes
Elevate your crab cake game with this unique twist on a classic recipe! By adding creamy pimento cheese and deviled flavors, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup pimento cheese crumbles (see note)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in pimento cheese crumbles until well combined.
4. Cover mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. When ready to cook, use a cookie scoop or spoon to form crab cake mixture into desired shape.
6. Place crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To make pimento cheese crumbles, mix softened cream cheese with chopped pimentos (green peppers) and a pinch of salt. Refrigerate until firm before crumbling into small pieces.
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy, cheesy delight! Pimento cheese stuffed mushrooms are a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (button or cremini work well)
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pimento cheese spread and butter until smooth.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the pimento cheese mixture, filling to the top.
4. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the pimento cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pimento Cheese and Sausage Balls
A Southern classic gets a savory twist with these bite-sized treats combining creamy pimento cheese with spicy sausage. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1 pound ground sausage (such as hot Italian or Cheddar Smoked)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine pimento cheese spread and sausage. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add breadcrumbs and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form mixture into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these 18 creative pimento cheese recipes! From classic spreads to innovative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try stuffing burgers or peppers with pimento cheese, or get fancy with deviled eggs and grilled cheese sandwiches. You’ll also find cheesy cornbread muffins, creamy grits casseroles, and even pimento cheese-stuffed chicken breast and mushrooms. Whether you’re a Southern comfort food lover or just looking for something new to try, these spicy pimento cheese recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
