Go Back
A glass jar filled with creamy southern pimento cheese spread served alongside salted saltine crackers and fresh tomato slices seasoned with pepper.

Classic Southern Pimento Cheese Spread

A simple, authentic Southern pimento cheese spread made with freshly grated sharp and white cheddar, pimentos, and creamy Duke's mayonnaise.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz block sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 8 oz block white cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 2 jars 4 oz each diced pimentos (drained completely)
  • 1 tsp white or yellow onion grated very fine
  • ½ cup Duke's mayonnaise plus a little extra if needed for creaminess
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1-2 tbsp finely diced jalapeños for heat

Equipment

  • Box grater
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sturdy mixing spoon or spatula
  • Glass storage jar or airtight container

Method
 

  1. Grate Cheese: Use a box grater to shred both the sharp cheddar and white cheddar blocks into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add Mix-Ins: Add the drained diced pimentos, finely grated onion, and black pepper (plus jalapeños if using).
  3. Add Mayo: Pour in the Duke's mayonnaise.
  4. Mix: Stir thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until all the cheese is evenly coated and the ingredients form a thick, creamy spread.
  5. Chill: Transfer to a glass jar, cover tightly, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) before serving.
  6. Serve: Serve cold with saltine crackers and fresh tomato slices.

Notes

Block Cheese Only: Do not use bagged pre-shredded cheese; grating it from a block is essential for the proper creamy texture.