You know those recipes that just taste like home? The ones that show up at every family reunion, church supper, or lazy Sunday picnic? That’s exactly what this Traditional Southern Pimiento Cheese Salad is for me. I can still picture my grandma’s weathered hands mixing up a big bowl of this creamy, tangy goodness for our Fourth of July gatherings – always served on her best china with Ritz crackers on the side. It’s not just a cheese spread, y’all. It’s a smile in every bite, the perfect balance of sharp cheddar, creamy mayo, and those sweet little pops of pimiento. Whether you’re spreading it on white bread for the perfect Southern sandwich or scooping it up with celery sticks, this is one of those classic recipes that never goes out of style.

Why You’ll Love This Traditional Southern Pimiento Cheese Salad

Oh honey, where do I even begin? This pimiento cheese is everything you want in a Southern staple – it’s creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor in every bite. You’ll swoon over how:

• It comes together in just 10 minutes flat (seriously – I’ve timed it between chasing kids)
• The flavors get even better after chilling (patience pays off!)
• It transforms boring sandwiches into something special
• Crowds go wild for it at potlucks (my secret weapon for church socials)
• You can adjust the spice level with that optional cayenne kick

Trust me – once you taste this version, you’ll understand why it’s been passed down through generations of Southern kitchens.

Ingredients for Traditional Southern Pimiento Cheese Salad

Now let’s talk ingredients – and I mean the good stuff! This isn’t the time to cut corners, y’all. For that authentic Southern pimiento cheese flavor, you’ll need:

• 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar (please, please don’t use pre-shredded – those anti-caking agents ruin the texture)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature (this is crucial for that dreamy, spreadable consistency)
• 1/2 cup real mayonnaise (Duke’s is my go-to, but use what makes your heart happy)
• 4 oz diced pimientos, drained well (squeeze ’em in a paper towel if they seem watery)
• Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and just a pinch of cayenne if you like a little kick

That’s it! Simple, quality ingredients that will make your taste buds sing.

How to Make Traditional Southern Pimiento Cheese Salad

Alright y’all, let’s get mixing! This pimiento cheese comes together quicker than you can say “bless your heart,” but there’s a method to the madness. Follow these easy steps for that perfect creamy-tangy balance:

Mixing the Base

First things first – grab your biggest mixing bowl and that softened cream cheese. Beat it good with a wooden spoon until it’s smooth as silk (no lumps allowed!). Now stir in your mayo – slowly now – until it’s all one happy, creamy mixture. Sprinkle in those spices – garlic powder, onion powder, and if you’re feeling sassy, that pinch of cayenne. Mix just until combined – overworking it here makes the texture too stiff.

Adding Cheese and Pimientos

Here’s where the magic happens! Gently fold in that freshly shredded cheddar (I use a rubber spatula for this part). You want every shred coated but still maintaining some texture – don’t beat it to death! Last comes those bright little pimientos – make sure they’re well drained so you don’t water down your masterpiece. Fold them in gently until they’re evenly distributed like little flecks of confetti.

Pop it in the fridge for at least an hour – I know it’s hard to wait, but trust me, this lets all those flavors get to know each other better. The wait makes all the difference between good pimiento cheese and “oh-my-stars-this-is-amazing” pimiento cheese!

Tips for the Best Traditional Southern Pimiento Cheese Salad

Listen up, y’all – after making enough batches of this pimiento cheese to fill a swimming pool, I’ve learned a few tricks that’ll take yours from good to legendary:

• Grate your own cheese – I know those pre-shredded bags are tempting, but the starch coating makes it grainy. A little elbow grease goes a long way!
• Taste as you go – Spices can vary, so adjust that garlic powder and cayenne until it makes your tongue happy
• Don’t skip the chill time – That hour in the fridge lets the flavors marry and the texture firm up perfectly
• Watch the pimiento juice – Squeeze those little red gems in a paper towel if they seem too wet

Follow these simple tips, and you’ll have folks begging for your recipe faster than you can say “potluck!”

Serving Suggestions for Traditional Southern Pimiento Cheese Salad

Oh honey, this pimiento cheese is like the little black dress of Southern cooking – it goes with everything! My family goes wild when I:

• Slather it between soft white bread for the ultimate Southern cheese sandwich (crusts optional)
• Pile it onto Ritz crackers for easy party bites (always disappears first!)
• Stuff celery sticks for a crunchy, creamy snack (my mama’s favorite way)
• Melt it onto burgers for a decadent twist (my husband’s genius idea)

Honestly? I’ve even been known to eat it straight from the bowl with a spoon when nobody’s looking!

Storage & Reheating

Now listen here – this pimiento cheese is practically indestructible in the fridge! Just tuck it into an airtight container (I use my grandma’s old Tupperware) and it’ll keep happily for up to 5 days. You might notice a little separation – no worries! Just give it a good stir before serving to bring it back to its creamy glory. Whatever you do, don’t freeze it – trust me, the texture turns to grainy sadness that’ll break your Southern heart.

Traditional Southern Pimiento Cheese Salad Variations

Now y’all know I’m loyal to my grandma’s original recipe, but sometimes I get wild and shake things up! Here are my favorite ways to put a fun spin on this classic:

• Spicy kick: Toss in some finely diced jalapeños (seeds removed if you’re faint of heart)
• Smoky goodness: A teaspoon of smoked paprika makes it taste like a backyard barbecue
• Bacon lovers: Crumbled crispy bacon turns it into breakfast-worthy spread
• Pickle fans: A tablespoon of pickle juice adds the perfect tangy twist

The beauty of pimiento cheese? It’s like a blank canvas for your favorite flavors – just don’t tell Grandma I said so!

Nutritional Information

Now y’all, I’m no dietitian, but here’s the honest scoop on our beloved Traditional Southern Pimiento Cheese Salad. These numbers are just estimates (your favorite brands might change things a smidge):

• Per 2 tablespoon serving: About 120 calories
• 11g fat (5g saturated – it’s cheese, what did you expect?)
• 4g protein (those cheese muscles!)
• Just 1g sugar and 2g carbs

Like my mama always said – “Everything in moderation, sugar.” A little indulgence never hurt nobody!

Frequently Asked Questions

Bless your heart, I know y’all have questions about this Southern staple – let me answer the ones I get asked most!

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Oh honey, no! Those store-bought shreds have anti-caking agents that make your pimiento cheese grainy. Take the extra minute to grate your own – your taste buds will thank you.

How long does it keep in the fridge?
About 5 days in an airtight container. It might separate a bit – just give it a good stir before serving and it’ll be good as new.

Can I freeze pimiento cheese?
Sweet mercy, no! The texture turns all wrong – grainy and sad. Make it fresh and eat it fresh – that’s the Southern way.

Can I make it spicier?
You bet! Add a pinch more cayenne or some diced jalapeños if you like a kick. Just taste as you go – we don’t want to set anyone’s mouth on fire!

Share Your Experience

Alright y’all, I want to hear about your pimiento cheese adventures! Tag me on social when you make it – I live for those cheesy masterpiece photos. Leave a rating below if this recipe makes your heart as happy as mine!

10-Minute Traditional Southern Pimiento Cheese Salad Recipe (Irresistible!)

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• Author: Christina R. Jones
• Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
• Yield: 3 cups 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy, tangy cheese spread perfect for sandwiches, dips, or crackers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 4 oz diced pimientos, drained
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and diced pimientos until evenly combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture.
• Adjust spice levels to your preference.
• Can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tbsp
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: pimiento cheese, Southern recipe, cheese spread, party appetizer