Spicy and Smoky Pimento Cheese

Homemade spicy and smoky pimento cheese with a smoky twist and a spicy kick is perfect for snacks and sandwiches. Use it in any recipe that calls for pimento cheese as an ingredient, and take your dish up a notch or two.

Jump to:

• Ingredient Notes
• How to Make Smoky Pimento Cheese
• How to Serve Smoky Pimento Cheese
• More Pimento Cheese Recipes
• Storage Recommendations
• Recipe FAQs
• 📖 Recipe

Homemade pimento cheese has been a staple in our house for generations. Growing up, Mama made the traditional pimento cheese with just a little mayo, salt and pepper, and a good dash of apple cider vinegar. Over the years, we've kicked it up a notch with a smoky twist and a spicy kick.

We love Smoky Pimento Cheese for its versatility and bold flavor. It's perfect for snacks, sandwiches, and as an ingredient in countless recipes. Simply spread it on a cracker or a crostini, and you've got a snack that pairs perfectly with a cold beer or a tall glass of iced tea.

Our favorite way to enjoy this pimento cheese spread is as part of a Southern-style spread. It's special enough for any occasion, from casual game days to fancy dinner parties.

This easy recipe comes together in just minutes, but the flavors deepen if you let it sit overnight. The combination of sharp cheddar, pepper jack, and a hint of chipotle creates a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast - so we always make extra!

We bet this Smoky Pimento Cheese dip will become a go-to recipe in your house too. It's amazing in sandwiches, perfect for jazzing up burgers, and makes a great dip for everything from fresh veggies to crispy chips.

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Ingredient Notes

• Sharp cheddar cheese - Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best flavor and texture. This is the backbone of our spicy pimento cheese recipe.
• Pepper Jack cheese - Adds an extra layer of spiciness and creaminess to the mix.
• Cream cheese - Helps bind everything together and adds a smooth, creamy texture.
• Mayonnaise - Use your favorite brand. It adds richness to this classic southern spread.
• Apple cider vinegar - Just a touch brings a tangy brightness that balances the rich cheeses.
• Smoked paprika - This is key for the smoky flavor in our Smoky Pimento Cheese.
• Chipotle chili powder - Adds both heat and smokiness. You can adjust the amount to your taste.
• Cayenne pepper - Optional, but great if you like extra heat. Remember, a little goes a long way!
• Pickled jalapeno slices - These are optional too, but they add a nice texture and extra kick.
• Pimento peppers - It wouldn't be pimento cheese without these sweet red peppers! They add a sweet pepper flavor and that classic red speckle.
• Tabasco Chipotle Pepper Sauce - This hot sauce adds another layer of smoky heat. You could substitute with a drop or two of liquid smoke if needed.

How to Make Smoky Pimento Cheese

1. Prep your ingredients: Start by grating the sharp cheddar and Pepper Jack cheeses with a box grater. Finely dice the pickled jalapeno slices if you're using them. Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
2. Combine the cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, add the grated cheddar, Pepper Jack, and softened cream cheese. Mix these together gently with a spatula or wooden spoon.
3. Add the wet ingredients: To the cheese mixture, add the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Tabasco Chipotle Pepper Sauce. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Incorporate the spices: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix thoroughly.
5. Add the rest of the ingredients: Gently fold in the diced pimentos and the finely diced pickled jalapenos (if using). Be careful not to overmix at this stage - you want to keep some texture.
6. Taste and adjust: Give your Smoky Pimento Cheese a taste. If needed, adjust the seasonings to your liking. You might want to add a bit more vinegar for tang, or more Tabasco for heat and smokiness.
7. Let it rest: For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and develop.
8. Serve: Your Smoky Pimento Cheese is now ready to enjoy! Serve it as a spread for crackers or sandwiches, use it as a dip, or incorporate it into your favorite recipes. Remember, it tastes best when allowed to come to room temperature before serving.

How to Serve Smoky Pimento Cheese

We have several recipes right here on Biscuits and Burlap that call for pimento cheese.

1. Classic snack: Spread on crackers or crostini for a quick and delicious appetizer.
2. Sandwiches: Pimento cheese sandwiches made with plain white bread are a southern classic. You can also use as a spread for your favorite sandwich. Try it in "The Spicy Southerner" with Fried Green Tomatoes and Bacon Jam for a true Southern delight.
3. Burger Sliders: Stuff into burger patties before grilling for gooey, cheesy Burger Sliders Stuffed With Pimento Cheese.
4. Cheese Ball: Form into a ball and roll in chopped nuts or herbs for an impressive party appetizer like we did in our Pimento Cheese Ball.
5. Phyllo appetizers: Use it in these easy appetizers in phyllo shells with a sprinkle of crispy bacon for an elegant bite-sized treat.
6. Biscuits: Incorporate into biscuit dough for savory Pimento Cheese Biscuits, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
7. Grazing board: Add to your Southern Style Grazing Board along with cured meats, fruits, and other cheeses for a crowd-pleasing spread.
8. Picnic Charcuterie: Include in your Picnic Charcuterie Board for a portable feast.
9. Vegetable dip: Serve as a dip with fresh vegetable crudités like celery sticks for a healthier snack option.

More Pimento Cheese Recipes

• Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
• Pepper Jack Pimento Cheese with Jalapenos

Storage Recommendations

Store your Smoky Pimento Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 1 week. Give it a quick stir before serving.

For best results, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

Recipe FAQs

It goes without saying that Pimento Cheese is the southern staple. If that rings true with you, you'll have an interest in Southern Food Then and Now. 

This recipe made the suggested list for the Backyard BBQ Menu Ideas. You'll want to visit for lots of other recipes as well as tips, tricks and planning help for your cookout.

📖 Recipe

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