If you’re on the hunt for that perfectly creamy, tangy, and just a little bit spicy cheese spread that feels like a warm Southern hug, Rosalynn Carter’s Classic Pimiento Cheese Recipe is your new best friend. This beloved recipe combines sharp and mild cheddar cheeses with the vibrant pop of pimentos and a punch of bright flavors, creating a versatile dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re dishing it out at a family gathering, spreading it on a hearty sandwich, or simply enjoying it with crackers, this recipe brings classic Southern charm right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Rosalynn Carter’s Classic Pimiento Cheese Recipe irresistible starts with its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture—from the sharpness of cheddar to the subtle sweetness of pimentos, finishing with creamy mayonnaise and zesty lemon that brighten every bite.
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated: Provides a bold, tangy foundation that shines through every mouthful.
- 8 oz mild cheddar cheese, grated: Balances the sharp cheddar with a smooth, mellow creaminess.
- 1 jar (4 oz) pimentos, drained and chopped: Adds a vibrant color and sweet peppery flavor essential for that classic taste.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates the luscious texture that makes the cheese spread so irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle tang and depth that wakes up the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness, lending a delightful zing.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a gentle savory undertone without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall aroma and taste with subtle warmth.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that tie all the flavors together perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions (optional): Adds a fresh, mild bite for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Make Rosalynn Carter’s Classic Pimiento Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Cheeses
The magic starts by bringing the sharp and mild grated cheddars together in a large mixing bowl. This combination forms the perfect creamy yet textured base, setting the stage for the mix of flavors to come.
Step 2: Add the Pimentos and Creamy Ingredients
Next, add the chopped pimentos, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. These elements infuse the cheese mixture with sweetness, creaminess, and a bright tang that’s signature to Rosalynn Carter’s Classic Pimiento Cheese Recipe.
Step 3: Incorporate Seasonings
Time to bring in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir all the ingredients together until you have a smooth, luscious cheese spread. These spices may seem small, but they really lift the flavor to another level.
Step 4: Mix in Green Onions (Optional)
If you like a little extra freshness and bite, folding in finely chopped green onions adds a wonderful pop of flavor and an appealing speckle of green throughout the cheese.
Step 5: Refrigerate and Let Flavors Meld
Cover the pimiento cheese and chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This resting time is key—it allows all those vibrant flavors to blend together beautifully, intensifying the taste and thickening the texture.
Step 6: Final Taste and Adjust
Before serving, give your cheese spread a taste test. Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to perfectly suit your palate. Personalizing this step really makes the recipe your own.
How to Serve Rosalynn Carter’s Classic Pimiento Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of paprika or a few extra chopped green onions beautifully complements the creamy cheese, adding inviting color and a fresh scent. You might even add a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy a subtle kick.
Side Dishes
This pimiento cheese is exceptional alongside crisp veggie sticks such as celery or carrots, buttery crackers, or freshly toasted bread. It also pairs wonderfully as a sandwich spread with cold cuts or as a zesty addition to a simple salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Get a little playful by serving Rosalynn Carter’s Classic Pimiento Cheese Recipe in mini phyllo cups for a sophisticated appetizer or dolloped generously atop baked potatoes for a comforting twist. It’s also fantastic whipped into deviled eggs or layered in a charcuterie board for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, the pimiento cheese should be stored covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 5 days, allowing you to enjoy this Southern favorite long after the initial meal.
Freezing
While freezing may seem handy, it’s best to avoid freezing this cheese spread because the texture can become grainy and separate upon thawing. Fresh is definitely best with Rosalynn Carter’s Classic Pimiento Cheese Recipe.
Reheating
Since this dish is traditionally served cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer it warmer, gently bring it to room temperature by letting it sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While the mix of sharp and mild cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a new twist. Just keep in mind the flavor balance and texture.
Is pimiento cheese gluten-free?
Yes! The basic ingredients in Rosalynn Carter’s Classic Pimiento Cheese Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and tasty option for people avoiding gluten. Just ensure you serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggies.
Can I make it spicier?
Definitely! Adding diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can give your pimiento cheese an exciting kick while maintaining the creamy balance.
How long should the cheese spread chill?
At least one hour is ideal for flavors to meld beautifully, but chilling it even longer, up to overnight, can deepen the taste further and improve texture.
What are some alternative ways to enjoy this recipe?
Beyond sandwiches and dips, try it stuffed in celery stalks, dolloped on baked potatoes, or even as a savory addition to scrambled eggs or omelets for a flavorful boost.
Final Thoughts
Rosalynn Carter’s Classic Pimiento Cheese Recipe is more than just a cheese spread—it’s a timeless Southern treasure you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again. With its rich flavors, easy prep, and endless serving possibilities, it’s a recipe that truly feels like an embrace from home. Go ahead, make a batch, share it with friends, and savor every delicious bite.
Print
Rosalynn Carter’s Classic Pimiento Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Rosalynn Carter’s Pimiento Cheese is a classic Southern cheese spread featuring a creamy blend of sharp and mild cheddar cheeses, tangy pimentos, and a flavorful mix of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and seasonings. Perfect for serving with crackers, sandwiches, or fresh vegetables, this easy-to-make spread is a delightful addition to any snack or appetizer table.
Ingredients
Cheese Ingredients
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 8 oz mild cheddar cheese, grated
Other Ingredients
- 1 jar (4 oz) pimentos, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
- Combine Cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine both the grated sharp cheddar cheese and mild cheddar cheese to create a balanced cheese base for the spread.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the chopped pimentos, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice to the cheese mixture to introduce creaminess and tangy flavors.
- Season the Spread: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, mixing until all ingredients are fully combined and the cheese spread reaches a smooth consistency.
- Optional Flavor Boost: If desired, fold in finely chopped green onions for an added burst of fresh flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pimiento cheese for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together and develop fully.
- Serve: Serve the pimiento cheese with crackers, on sandwiches, or as a dip accompanied by fresh vegetables.
Notes
- For a smoother spread, you can pulse the mixture briefly in a food processor, but be careful not to over-process.
- Adjust the amount of Dijon mustard or lemon juice to tailor the tanginess to your liking.
- Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
- Optional: add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
