If you love classic pimento cheese but want a little heat, this Spicy Jalapeño Pimento Cheese is an excellent twist on the Southern favorite. It’s simple to prepare and makes a flavorful appetizer or snack that pairs perfectly with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Quick overview of what you’ll need. Precise measurements and full instructions are in the recipe card below.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (white or regular), freshly shredded
- Pepper Jack cheese for extra kick
- Fresh jalapeño peppers, diced (remove membrane and seeds to tame the heat)
- Jarred diced pimentos, drained
- Softened cream cheese
- Mayonnaise
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- Optional: cayenne pepper for extra heat
How to Make It
- Shred the cheeses. A food processor speeds this step and gives a consistent texture.
- Finely dice the jalapeños. Leave the seeds and membranes in if you want more heat; remove them for a milder spread.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the shredded cheeses, diced jalapeños, drained pimentos, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise (start with 2 tablespoons), onion powder, garlic powder, 1/4–1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4–1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne if using. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- If you don’t have a mixer, mash the cream cheese with the mayonnaise and spices using a fork, then fold in the shredded cheeses and diced peppers.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or mayonnaise to reach your preferred flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately or chill for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. The spread firms slightly as it cools.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and spreadability.
- Enjoy with crackers, toasted bread, pretzels, chips, or fresh vegetables.
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Recipe Tips & Variations
- For a milder version, use fewer jalapeños or substitute pickled jalapeños for a tangy, less spicy option.
- Customize seasonings to your taste—smoked paprika, a pinch of dry mustard, or a little lemon zest all work well.
- Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but freshly shredded cheddar melts and blends more smoothly and avoids added anti-caking agents.
- To stretch the spread, add an extra tablespoon or two of mayonnaise or cream cheese and adjust seasoning accordingly.
If you prefer no spice, the classic pimento cheese without jalapeños is equally delicious. This spicy version is great for those who enjoy a little heat, while the traditional recipe remains a family favorite for milder palates.
Storage
How to Store It
Keep the pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While it’s best served at room temperature, chilling helps flavors meld and gives the spread a firmer texture. Remove it from the fridge about 20–30 minutes before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze pimento cheese, but the texture may change after thawing. If you freeze it, do so in a sealed container and thaw slowly in the refrigerator. Stir well before serving to recombine any separated liquids.
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Jalapeño Pimento Cheese
Ingredients
- 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 4 oz extra sharp white cheddar, freshly grated
- 3 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 4 oz jarred pimiento peppers, drained
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (more if needed)
- 2-3 jalapeños, diced (remove seeds/membrane for milder)
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼-½ teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
- ¼-½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to the bowl of a stand mixer, beginning with 2 tablespoons mayonnaise. Mix until everything is well combined. Add more mayonnaise if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and cayenne. Start with smaller amounts and increase to suit your preference.
- If you don’t have a mixer, mash the cream cheese with mayonnaise and spices, then fold in the shredded cheeses and peppers.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate to let flavors meld; chilling will thicken the spread.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is approximate and should be used as a guide.
What to Serve with Jalapeño Pimento Cheese
There are many tasty ways to enjoy this spread:
- Spread on crackers or toasted bread for a classic appetizer.
- Make jalapeño poppers by stuffing halved peppers with pimento cheese and wrapping with bacon; bake, grill, or smoke until crisp.
- Serve with tortilla chips, potato chips, or pretzels for dipping.
- Use as a sandwich or wrap spread for added flavor.
- Melt into a grilled cheese with crispy bacon for an indulgent twist.
- Add a spoonful to burgers or hot dogs in place of traditional condiments.
- Pair with fresh vegetables for a lighter snack option.