Southern Pimento Cheese

Pimento cheese is one of the best things I discovered when my husband moved us to Alabama. Had it on a burger and knew this would be a staple fridge grab. Here is my straightforward, no nonsense, recipe. Feel free to fancy it up.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups thick cut extra sharp Cheddar cheese (I use Tillamook)

• 6 oz cream cheese, softened

• 3-4 T Mayonnaise (Duke’s because I like the flavor)

• 1/4 t garlic powder

• 1/4 t cayenne pepper (optional, but I use a 1/2 t)

• 4 oz jar diced pimento, drained

• 3 scallions, thinly sliced into the green part

• Seasoning salt & ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

• In a standing mixer or bowl with handheld mixer, whip the cream cheese until light and fluffy.

• Add the cheese, Mayonnaise, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and mix on low speed until well combined. Add the pimentos and most of the scallions. Mix until just incorporated.

• Add seasoning salt and black pepper. Give a mix. Taste. Adjust as needed.

• Transfer to an airtight container or serving bowl. Top with remaining scallions.

Options to fancy it up: dash Worcestershire sauce; grated Vidalia onion; chopped pecans; diced jalapeño, switch out one cup of extra sharp Cheddar for Gouda, Monterrey Jack, Pepper Jack…you get it; hot sauce; and of course crispy diced bacon. Because, its bacon.