3-Ingredient Pimento Cheese
3-Ingredient Pimento Cheese
Creamy, tangy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to prepare, 3-Ingredient Pimento Cheese is one of those recipes that proves you don't need a long ingredient list to make something delicious. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a rich spread that works beautifully for sandwiches, crackers, vegetables, burgers, or even as a dip for parties.
Traditional pimento cheese is especially popular in the Southern United States, where it has earned a reputation as a versatile comfort-food staple. The combination of sharp cheese, creamy mayonnaise, and sweet-tangy pimentos creates a distinctive flavor that can be enjoyed in countless ways.
This simplified version keeps things uncomplicated while allowing the three main ingredients to shine.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to keep this quick pimento cheese recipe in your collection:
It requires only three ingredients.
No cooking is necessary.
It can be prepared in just a few minutes.
It works as both a spread and a dip.
It is easy to make ahead.
The flavor can be adjusted to your preference.
It is perfect for sandwiches, snacks, parties, and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
You only need three ingredients:
2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup diced pimentos, drained well
Freshly shredded cheddar is preferable because it tends to blend more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese. Sharp cheddar also provides enough flavor to balance the creamy mayonnaise and mild pimentos.
Step 1: Prepare the Pimentos
Begin by opening the jar of pimentos and draining them thoroughly.
This step may seem minor, but it makes a noticeable difference. Excess liquid can make the finished pimento cheese watery and prevent it from developing the thick, spreadable consistency you want.
After draining, gently pat the pimentos dry with a paper towel.
If the pimentos are in larger pieces, chop them into smaller pieces. You can make them very fine for a smoother spread or leave them slightly larger if you prefer more noticeable pieces throughout the mixture.
Step 2: Shred the Cheddar
If you're using a block of cheddar cheese, shred it using the large holes of a box grater.
Sharp cheddar is an excellent choice because its stronger flavor remains noticeable even after it is combined with mayonnaise.
For the creamiest texture, avoid shredding the cheese too finely. Medium-sized shreds give the finished spread a pleasant texture while still blending easily.
Step 3: Combine the Cheese and Mayonnaise
Place the shredded cheddar in a medium mixing bowl.
Add the mayonnaise and gently stir the two ingredients together.
At first, the mixture may look somewhat dry. Continue folding and stirring until the mayonnaise coats the cheese evenly.
Don't worry about making it perfectly smooth. Classic pimento cheese often has a little texture from the shredded cheddar.

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