Pimento Cheese Spread with Jalapeno
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our full disclosure policy.
If you’re planning snacks for Masters week, this Pimento Cheese Spread with Jalapeños needs to be on your list. It comes together in just 10 minutes, uses simple ingredients, and it’s exactly the kind of recipe people gather around.
Why I Made the Recipe
Back when I ran my meal assembly business, dips like this were always the first to disappear. They’re quick to make, easy to serve, and people always ask for the recipe.
I tested this version a few different ways and landed on fresh jalapeño instead of canned. It gives you that little bit of crunch without making it overly spicy. It’s simple, reliable, and exactly the kind of recipe that works when you need something fast but still homemade.
If you need more easy appetizer ideas, you can browse my appetizer recipes for simple, crowd-friendly options.
Fun Fact – My friend, who owns a local restaurant in Kansas City, put this recipe on a burger as a one-day special. It was a hit! Don’t forget to try the cheese dip on a burger.
Why You’ll Love this Pimento Cheese Spread
- Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking.
- Perfect for Masterss sandwiches, crackers, or sliders.
- Made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients.
- Fresh jalapeño adds crunch without too much heat.
- Even better after chilling for 30 minutes.
If you’re putting together a full spread, my ham salad is another easy option that works great for sandwiches and make-ahead snacks.
Simple Ingredients
Recipe Notes
- Mayonnaise – Skip Miracle Whip here. A classic mayo gives you the best flavor and texture.
- Cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor. You can mix in mild cheddar if you want it a little more mellow.
- Pimentos – You’ll usually find these in the olive aisle. Be sure to drain them well.
- Fresh jalapeño – This is what sets this version apart. I love the crunch it adds. Remove the seeds to keep the heat mild.
- Make it creamier – Add an extra tablespoon or two of mayonnaise if you want a softer, more spreadable texture.
You can find a complete list of the ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.
Step-by-Step Pimento Cheese Directions
Step 1: In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, and spices.
Step 2: Add the cheddar cheese, pimentos, and jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture. Chill for 30 minutes.
Jill’s Top Tips
- Let it chill. The flavor gets noticeably better after about 30 minutes.
- Dice the jalapeño small so you get a little bit in every bite.
- Shred your own cheese if you can. It blends better and gives a smoother texture.
- If it feels too thick, stir in a little extra mayo before serving.
Would you like to save this recipe?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Variations
- No heat: Skip the jalapeño entirely for a classic version.
- Extra kick: Leave a few seeds in or add a pinch more cayenne.
- Smoother texture: Pulse everything briefly in a food processor.
What to Serve With Pimento Cheese
This is the kind of recipe I pull out when I don’t want to overthink it. Spread it on white bread for a classic Masters-style sandwich, scoop it with crackers while everyone’s watching the tournament, or add it to sliders for an easy party tray.
It also works really well tucked into a grilled cheese if you want something warm.
Did you make the recipe? Let us know what you thought by leaving a comment below and sharing it on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook! Thanks so much!
Recipe
Pimento Cheese Spread with Jalapenos
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup Mayonnaise
- ½ cup Cream cheese softened
- ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon Cayenne powder optional
- 8 ounces Cheddar cheese shredded
- 4 ounces Pimentos drained
- 2 Jalapeño seeded and finely diced (about 2 to 3 tablespoons, adjust to taste)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a little salt and pepper until smooth.⅔ cup Mayonnaise, ½ cup Cream cheese, ½ teaspoon Garlic powder, ½ teaspoon Onion powder, ¼ teaspoon Cayenne powder
- Add the cheddar cheese, pimentos, and jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until fully combined.8 ounces Cheddar cheese, 4 ounces Pimentos, 2 Jalapeño
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- ★ Did you make this recipe? Don't forget to give it a star rating below!
Thank you for sharing this recipe
This was fantastic, the crowd loved it!
Delicious, I love pimento cheese and this is my favorite by far.
Have had the pleasure of trying this twice. Delicious!
Thank you. It’s a great recipe to share!
Enjoyed this pimento dip at an event last night! Tasty!!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it—thank you Deb for taking the time to leave a comment! It’s one of my go-to party dips. If you ever make it at home, let me know how it turns out!
Delicious! Definitely making this for next get together.
first time trying this pimento dip at a party….it was delicious! am going to make it next time I.need to bring an app!!
This dip is a perfect fall recipe! Sampled it the other night and plan to make it myself.
I had this pimento dip at a party over the weekend and it was wonderful. It was gone in no time!
If you like pimento dip, give this one a try. Really good!
Thanks, Jane! This is one of my go to recipes for entertaining. It’s easy to put together and it always gets a lot of attention.