Description
This classic Pimento Cheese Sandwich recipe features a creamy, flavorful cheese spread made with sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, cream cheese, and tangy pimentos, seasoned with a touch of cayenne and garlic powder. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, these sandwiches are easy to assemble and deliver a delightful combination of textures and tastes reminiscent of Southern comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Spread
- 6 ounces (170 g) cream cheese, full-fat, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (about 113 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (about 113 g) Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise, full-fat recommended
- 3 tablespoons (45 g) chopped pimentos, jarred
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (omit for lower sodium diet)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Assembly
- 8 slices white bread, traditional sandwich bread
- Olives and cornichons, for serving
Instructions
- Whip the Cream Cheese: Place the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl. Using a hand mixer on medium speed, whip the cream cheese until it becomes light and fluffy. Room temperature cream cheese ensures smooth, easy whipping.
- Mix in Cheeses and Seasonings: Add the shredded sharp cheddar, shredded Colby Jack, mayonnaise, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper to the whipped cream cheese. Continue mixing on medium speed until all ingredients are just combined. Avoid over-mixing to preserve texture.
- Fold in Pimentos: Gently fold the chopped pimentos into the cheese mixture using a spatula or spoon, taking care to maintain the pimentos’ texture without breaking them down.
- Prepare Bread Slices: Lay out four slices of white bread on a clean cutting board, which will make spreading and assembly neater and easier.
- Spread Cheese Mixture: Evenly spread a generous layer of the pimento cheese mixture on each of the four bread slices. Use enough to make each bite flavorful without the filling running.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Place the remaining four slices of bread on top of the prepared slices to form sandwiches. Using a sharp knife, cut each sandwich in half for easier serving and handling.
Notes
- For a lower sodium option, omit the kosher salt from the cheese spread.
- Serve these sandwiches chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
- Add sliced tomatoes or crisp lettuce for added texture and freshness.
- Use whole wheat or multigrain bread as a healthier alternative.
- Leftover pimento cheese spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
