Chipotle Pepper Spicy Pimento Cheese Spread
Pimento cheese gets a spicy kick with the addition of smoked cheddar cheese and chipotle peppers in adobo.
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Known as the “caviar of the South,” pimento cheese is a southern staple. While this is not a traditional pimento cheese recipe, it’s definitely my favorite variation of all the pimento cheese recipes I’ve tried. I can’t take credit for its creation. The first time I had this tasty combination of smoky cheddar and spicy chipotle peppers was as an appetizer at Parlor Market, a popular restaurant in downtown Jackson, Mississippi. Sadly, the restaurant no longer exists. Oh well, at least I have their homemade pimento cheese recipe to remember them by.
What are chipotle peppers in adobo?
Chipotle peppers are smoked and dried jalapenos usually canned whole in a spicy sauce made from puréed chiles, tomatoes, vinegar, onions, garlic and various spices. You can find them in the international aisle in most grocery stores next to the Latin American foods. Chipotle peppers in adobo have a spicy, smoky flavor that adds a ton of flavor to this spread.
Since the recipe only calls for 4 peppers, you will have leftover chipotle peppers. Don’t throw them away! Save them for Honey Chipotle Chicken Drumsticks.
Ingredients and tools you will need
This spicy pimiento cheese spread requires only seven ingredients and can be prepared in a matter of minutes. To make this zesty take on a classic southern spread, you will need:
- 1 pound smoked cheddar, grated – I usually have to search the gourmet food section to find smoked cheddar. If you can’t find smoked cheese, extra-sharp cheddar cheese can be substituted. Be aware that pre-shredded cheese is treated with potato flour to prevent the shreds from sticking together. I personally feel the cheese doesn’t incorporate into the spread as well and it’s worth the extra five minutes to shred your own cheese with a box grater.
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups mayonnaise
- 3-4 whole chipotle peppers in adobo, chopped – Three adds a little spice. Use more if you like more heat.
- 1 green onion, white and green parts, chopped – cut the root tip off the onion and discard, then chop up everything else.
- 1 teaspoon chopped pimento peppers – side note — when I make this I don’t use pimentos. But I’ve had so many people complain that I can’t call it pimento cheese without pimentos. So here you go folks. You have my permission to take it or leave it.
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer, optional – you can achieve a smoother consistency using an electric mixer. If using a stand mixer, use the paddle attachment. If you don’t have a mixer, you can stir everything together by hand. I’ve also heard of people whipping this up in a food processor.
How to make Chipotle Pepper Spicy Pimento Cheese Spread
Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated throughout. You can eat the pimento cheese mixture at this point, but for the best flavor, cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This is a great recipe for dipping Ritz crackers, pretzel chips, or even pork rinds for a yummy low carb treat!
Storage instructions
Spicy pimento cheese will keep at room temperature for up to two hours. After that, it should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within five days. Sorry, this recipe does not freeze well.
If you need a few ideas to use up any leftover spicy pimento cheese, my favorite way is in these Pimento Cheese Stuffed Potato Bites. This spicy pimento cheese recipe also pairs well with celery sticks, fresh red bell peppers or other fresh vegetables, slathered between two pieces of white bread, or as a dip for fried green tomatoes.
Frequently asked questions
If you don’t like a really spicy end product, consider reducing the number of chipotle peppers to one or two. If you just don’t like chipotle peppers, maybe consider a more traditional recipe such as Masters Pimento Cheese.
Yes, you can transfer the dip to a casserole dish and bake it in a 350-degree F oven for 10 – 15 minutes until it’s warm and gooey.
Chipotle Pepper Spicy Pimento Cheese Spread
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked cheddar grated
- 1 pound bacon cooked, crumbled
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 4 cups mayonnaise
- 4 whole chipotle peppers in adobo chopped
- 1 green onion white and green parts, chopped
- 1 teaspoon diced pimentos
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a large mixing bowl.
- Mix until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
- For best results, cover the pimento cheese and chill for two hours before serving.
Never thought to make it with adobo peppers. Bet it’s got a nice kick!
Me too!
This cheese spread is delicious. I will be adding it to my appetizer list for an upcoming party! Thanks for sharing!
A friend of mine always talked about pimento cheese, and I just kept wondering what it was! Lovely way to try it out. Thanks Lisa.
I’ve never tried Pimento Cheese but this spread looks like the perfect snack!
Yes, it’s your blog and you can call it what you want. I’d call it delicious!
When I moved from RI to the TX, I had no clue what pimento cheese was. I was VERY leary to try it, it just did not sound good. And to make a SANDWICH out of it??? Well, I finally did try it and am hooked. This recipe sounds awesome! Thanks for sharing!
Well, I must say, “Hoooray”! Well done. Best ever! I’m looking forward to the reviews at the wedding rehearsal cocktail party this Thursday! it is Fabulous!!!