Description
A creamy, tangy, and flavorful Southern classic made with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, cream cheese, and pimentos. Easy substitutions included with flexibility.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded (freshly shredded from a block)
- 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (freshly shredded from a block)
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz jar diced pimentos, drained
- 1/2 cup avocado mayonnaise (I prefer to use homemade)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (sub with onion salt, omit additional salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (sub with garlic pepper, omit additional pepper)
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (sub with a drizzle of chipotle oil)
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients : shred cheeses and drain pimentos well.
- Mix the base : in a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Add seasoning : stir in onion powder (or onion salt), garlic powder (or garlic pepper), and cayenne pepper (or chipotle oil). Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Fold in cheeses and pimentos : add cheddar, Monterey Jack, and diced pimentos. Stir until evenly combined.
- Chill and serve : transfer to a container, cover, and chill for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Serve with crackers, bread, or as a sandwich spread.
Notes
- Substitutions : onion powder / onion salt, garlic powder / garlic pepper, cayenne / chipotle oil
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor
- Shred your own cheese for a creamier texture
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Chill Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Spread
- Method: No-Cook / Mixing
- Cuisine: Southern American