Pimento Cheese Spread With Smoked Paprika Recipe
Picture yourself lounging on a porch in Pawleys Island, South Carolina, basking in the warm ocean breeze that carries with it the unmistakable aroma of smoky pimento cheese spread. This appetizer has been satisfying southern cravings for generations, and it’s time to bring it into your own kitchen with this easy and delicious recipe.
Pimento cheese is a staple in the South and can be found at nearly any gathering as it pairs perfectly with crackers or vegetables. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it has such a loyal following.
In just a few simple steps, and using only a handful of ingredients including freshly grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, pimientos, garlic powder, onion powder and smoked paprika – you can create a versatile cheese spread perfect for sandwiches or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
So go ahead and give this recipe a try; I guarantee you won’t regret it. Your taste buds will be treated to the perfect blend of sharp cheddar cheese, smoky paprika and creamy mayo – all with just the right amount of zing from the garlic and onion powders. Get ready to make your taste buds dance!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a fan of cheese spreads, but looking for a recipe with a little bit of extra pizzazz? Look no further than this pimento cheese spread with smoked paprika recipe. Let me tell you, this spread will not disappoint.
First of all, let’s talk about the flavor. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, smoked pimento, and smoked paprika is an absolute winner. The smokiness of the paprika perfectly complements the tanginess of the pimento and cheese, creating a savory explosion in your mouth. You won’t be able to resist going back for seconds (or thirds).
But it’s not just the flavor that makes this recipe stand out – it’s also incredibly versatile. This spread can be used as a dip for chips or veggies, slathered onto a sandwich or burger, or even used in creative ways (like as a filling for deviled eggs!) The possibilities are endless.
And let’s not forget how easy this recipe is to make. With just 8 ingredients and minimal prep work, you can whip up a batch of this delicious spread in no time. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can make to tailor it to your tastes (like adding some cayenne pepper for an extra kick).
Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick and easy snack, this pimento cheese spread with smoked paprika is the perfect choice. Trust me – once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Ingredient List
Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to make this smoky and delicious Pimento Cheese Spread with Smoked Paprika Recipe:
- 8 ounces freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces smoked pimento cheese
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1 cup grated smoked gouda
- 4 ounces cream cheese, placed in medium bowl to soften
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika + a pinch of cayenne pepper, or to taste
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
*Optional garnish: diced canned pimientos and/or toasted pecans.
All of these ingredients come together to create a perfect balance of sharp and smoky flavors in a delectable spread perfect for any occasion.
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get into the heart of the recipe: making the Pimento Cheese Spread with Smoked Paprika. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow and won’t take long to make.
Step 1: Mix the Cheese
First, in a medium mixing bowl, I combine 8 ounces of freshly grated extra sharp cheddar cheese with 4 ounces of cream cheese. I mix them until fully combined.
Step 2: Add More Ingredients
Next, I add in the following ingredients:
– ½ cup of mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
– a pinch of salt and pepper
– 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
I mix everything together until well-blended.
Step 3: Mix it All Together
Then, I add in the roasted red pimientos, which have been drained and chopped, and a quarter cup of chopped pecans. After that, I fold everything together until fully mixed.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Finally, I transfer the Pimento Cheese Spread with Smoked Paprika to a serving bowl and place it in the fridge for at least one hour to chill. Once chilled, it’s ready to serve!
That’s all there is to it! The result is a creamy and smoky Pimento Cheese Spread that will make your taste buds dance.
Substitutions and Variations
As much as I love this recipe, I understand that sometimes you might need to switch things up a bit. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
– Swap out the sharp cheddar cheese for a milder or stronger cheese such as Monterrey Jack or aged Gouda.
– Add some spice by mixing in a little cayenne pepper or diced jalapenos.
– Give it a kick with some hot sauce or chili flakes.
– Make it nut-free by leaving out the pecans or substituting them with toasted sunflower seeds.
– Experiment with different types of smoked paprika such as sweet, spicy, or hot depending on your preference.
– Use roasted red peppers instead of pimentos for a smokier flavor.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and mix and match these variations until you find your perfect combination. Whether you’re making an appetizer for your next party, a sandwich for lunch, or just satisfying your craving for something cheesy and delicious, these substitutions and variations will help elevate your pimento cheese spread game.
Serving and Pairing
As a BBQ chef’s assistant, I know that the pimento cheese spread with smoked paprika recipe is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. The creamy and tangy texture of the spread can balance the savory flavors of any dish.
One traditional way of serving it is by spreading it on top of crispy crackers or toasts that add an extra crunchy layer. It can also be used as a dip for veggies like carrots or celery, which balance out the sharpness of the cheese spread.
This spread also pairs perfectly with grilled meats such as burgers, hotdogs, and chicken sandwiches. It adds an extra depth of flavor and creaminess that kicks up these dishes to the next level.
For vegetarians who want a quick meal, serve this cheesy goodness on top of grilled sweet potato wedges or alongside balsamic roasted mushrooms. These vegetarian options won’t leave anybody feeling left out.
For those who like their food spicy, sprinkle more smoked paprika on top or mix in some cayenne pepper. This mild spice will balance out the cheesy notes and add a burst of spiciness to any dish.
Lastly, this pimento cheese spread can be used to create more complex dishes such as baked pasta or savory stuffed rolls. Its versatility is endless making it perfect for entertaining guests for any season or occasion.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One great thing about this pimento cheese spread with smoked paprika recipe is that it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for several days. Once you’ve made your batch, you can simply place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
When you’re ready to serve, take the pimento cheese spread out of the fridge and let it come up to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make for an even more delicious dip.
If you find that your pimento cheese spread has become too thick after storing it, simply add a bit of mayonnaise or cream cheese to thin it out. You can also stir in some extra shredded cheese if you want to give it a cheesier flavor.
Reheating this pimento cheese spread is not recommended as the high heat can cause separation and cause some of the oils to separate from the cheese. If you find that your pimento cheese spread has separated after storage, stir it back together and adjust the consistency with additional mayonnaise or cream cheese as needed.
Overall, this pimento cheese spread with smoked paprika is a perfect make-ahead appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re using it as a dip for veggies or crackers or as a sandwich spread, this recipe is always sure to please.
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the perfect pimento cheese spread with smoked paprika, there are some tips and recommendations that you should take into account. Here are my suggestions to help you achieve the best flavor and texture:
1. Grate the Cheese Freshly
Freshly grated cheese tastes better in this recipe than pre-shredded cheese that you can buy at the grocery store. Pre-packaged shredded cheese often includes anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly. Besides, grated cheese is often fresher and has a better melt. Thus, I recommend using freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese in this recipe.
2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
It’s essential to use room temperature ingredients to enable them to mix evenly.
3. Adjust the Spices to Your Liking
The recipe calls for smoked paprika and cayenne pepper powder, but do not be afraid to adjust them according to your taste buds.
4. Chill Time
Once the pimento cheese spread is made, chill it for 30 minutes minimum before serving it since chilling allows the flavors to meld together.
5. Don’t Forget Texture
I recommend adding finely chopped pecans or even almonds to create a crunchier texture in this pimento cheese spread with smoked paprika recipe.
6. Use a Good-Quality Mayonnaise
The flavor of your mayonnaise will undoubtedly affect the overall taste of your pimento cheese spread. Therefore, opt for a high-quality mayo that tastes good on its own.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with an incredible smoky pimento cheese spread that’s sure to be the highlight of your meal!
FAQ
As we come to the end of our recipe article, let’s address some common questions regarding this Pimento Cheese Spread With Smoked Paprika Recipe. Here are some frequently asked questions about the dish that we’ll go through in this section. Hopefully, answering these will help you achieve perfect results and enjoy your cheesy creation to its fullest.
What is the difference between Palmetto cheese and pimento cheese?
A company called Pawleys Island Specialty Foods, which is part of Get Carried Away, has a brand of pimento cheese called Palmetto Cheese. It is produced and packaged by Duke Sandwich Productions, located in Easley, South Carolina.
What is pimento cheese spread made of?
If you’re looking for a delicious and classic Southern spread, look no further than pimento cheese. This tasty spread is typically made with shredded Cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It’s often served as a dip with crackers and veggies or used as a sandwich filling. Some even call it the “pâté of the south.” So, why not give it a try and see what all the fuss is about?
Did Kraft quit making pimento cheese spread?
I apologize for the inconvenience, but the pimento cheese spread is currently unavailable. It has been discontinued for the time being, but it will likely be restocked sometime next year.
How long does homemade pimento spread last?
If you’re wondering about the shelf life of your homemade Pimento cheese, it can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 10 days. To ensure its freshness, store it in an airtight container. This information was last updated on May 19, 2018.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this pimento cheese spread with smoked paprika recipe is the perfect addition to any gathering, whether it’s a summer BBQ, Halloween party or a cozy winter get-together. With its smoky flavor and creamy texture, this cheese spread is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer with crackers or using it as a filling for sandwiches, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. With ingredients like extra sharp cheddar cheese, pimientos and smoked paprika, this pimento cheese spread will have everyone coming back for more.
So why not try making this homemade pimento cheese spread for your next party or family gathering? Mix up the ingredients, experiment with different flavors and have fun while you create your own delicious version of this classic southern recipe.
Trust me, once you’ve tasted this smoky pimento cheese spread, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought dips again. So grab a mixing bowl, some crackers and get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible appetizer. Happy cooking!
Pimento Cheese Spread With Smoked Paprika Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
- 2/3 cup pecans (toasted and chopped)
- 4 ounces pimientos (drained well)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (or to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (or to taste)
- 2 ounces cream cheese (low fat okay)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Grate cheese into a medium sized bowl.
- Toast pecans, then rough chop in a food processor.
- Add drained pimentos, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cream cheese to the pecans in the food processor bowl. Process until as smooth as you’d like!
- Add pimento pecan mixture to the grated cheese; add mayonnaise and stir until well combined.
- Serve immediately, or chill for a better blend of flavors. Serve on crackers, celery sticks, or make into sandwiches!
- NOTE: I prefer the stiffer pimento cheese spread (as written) for toasted/grilled sandwiches! For a softer consistency, add 1-2 ounces more cream cheese, or increase the mayonnaise by 1-2 tablespoons.
YOUR OWN NOTE
Nutrition
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Shara @The Bird BBQ
Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.