Save It This Southern-inspired pimento cheese grilled cheese turns a humble sandwich into pure comfort food Tangy homemade pimento cheese melts between buttery golden slices of bread making every bite rich and satisfying Whenever I need a lunch that tastes like a warm hug this is my go-to recipe
Whenever my sisters visit they ask for this sandwich by name it has become one of our little rituals especially with a steaming bowl of soup on the side
Ingredients
- Sharp cheddar cheese grated: this brings sharpness and depth I always spring for extra-sharp for bolder flavor
- Cream cheese softened: for ultimate creaminess choose a full-fat brick for best melt
- Mayonnaise: classic Southern touch for tang and silkiness opt for real mayo not dressing
- Diced pimentos drained: add tangy brightness choose jarred diced pimentos with few seeds
- Garlic powder: for subtle savory kick look for a fresh aromatic powder
- Onion powder: for balanced flavor I go for toasted onion powder when I can find it
- Smoked paprika: gives a gentle smokiness Spanish smoked paprika brings the warm flavor you want
- Salt and pepper: balance and enhance all the other ingredients fresh ground pepper works best
- Country-style bread or sourdough: sturdy enough to hold up to the melting cheese choose loaves with a hearty crust and open crumb
- Unsalted butter softened: for spreading and a perfectly crisp golden exterior always use high quality butter for best flavor
Instructions
- Mix the Pimento Cheese:
- In a medium bowl add grated cheddar cheese cream cheese mayonnaise diced pimentos garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and pepper Stir thoroughly until mixture is creamy and evenly blended You want no streaks of cheese or clumps of cream cheese
- Prep the Sandwiches:
- Lay out four slices of country bread or sourdough Spread the pimento cheese mixture generously over two slices Top with the remaining bread to form closed sandwiches Press gently to seal
- Butter the Bread:
- Using a spatula or butter knife spread a generous layer of softened unsalted butter on the outside of each sandwich This helps create a crisp crust
- Grill the Sandwiches:
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium low Place the sandwiches butter side down in the skillet Cook for three to four minutes per side pressing gently with the back of a spatula until the bread is deep golden brown and the cheese is meltingly gooey Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer sandwiches to a board Slice each in half Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and stretchy
Save It My favorite part is always the vivid color from those little diced pimentos it reminds me of summers at my grandmother’s table with sandwiches piled high and laughter echoing from the kitchen This pimento cheese is pure Southern nostalgia for me
Storage Tips
Store leftover pimento cheese in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days If the mixture feels a little stiff from chilling stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise before spreading To keep grilled sandwiches crispy let them cool completely before storing in a container lined with paper towel then toast again in a skillet to revive that crunch
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap sharp cheddar for mild or medium or mix in a little Monterey Jack For a lighter version use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise Or boost the flavor with diced jalapeños or a hint of hot sauce If sourdough is unavailable thick white sandwich bread does the trick as well
Serving Suggestions
Always serve these sandwiches hot and fresh Pair with tomato soup for the ultimate comfort combo or a crisp green salad with vinaigrette For parties cut into wedges or sticks for easy nibbling I sometimes add tomato slices inside for extra juiciness
Cultural and Historical Context
Pimento cheese is a beloved staple across the Southern United States dating back more than a century Many families each have their own tweaks on the classic recipe making it a source of regional pride Adding it to a grilled cheese transforms something simple into a dish layered with tradition and flavor
Seasonal Adaptations
Tuck in fresh summer tomatoes for brightness Add a touch of cayenne or fresh herbs from your garden for variety Use hearty bread or add roasted peppers in colder months
Success Stories
This recipe delights every time Kids love the gooey cheese adults swoon for the tang Friends still reminisce about the first time I served these on a chilly autumn night
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can prep and freeze the pimento cheese filling in individual bags Defrost overnight in the fridge then assemble fresh sandwiches as needed For ready to eat sandwiches cool after frying wrap tightly and freeze Toast straight from frozen for a fast lunch
Save It This is the sandwich I crave when the weather turns cool or when company comes knocking Always worth the little extra fuss
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of bread works best for this sandwich?
Country-style bread or sourdough are ideal for sturdy, crispy texture that holds up to the cheese filling.
- → Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time?
Yes, the pimento cheese mixture can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to two days for easy assembly.
- → How do I achieve perfectly melted cheese?
Cook sandwiches on medium-low heat and press gently; this ensures even melting without burning the bread.
- → Can I add extra ingredients for flavor?
Absolutely—try adding tomato slices, bacon, or jalapeños for added depth and heat to your sandwich.
- → Is there a suggested side dish?
Pairs well with tomato soup or a crisp green salad, balancing the richness of the cheese.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this sandwich uses only vegetarian ingredients but does contain dairy and eggs.