Jump to:
Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese
Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese brings together the beloved flavors of the South in one irresistible sandwich. This comfort food classic transforms traditional grilled cheese into something extraordinary by featuring homemade pimento cheese spread between golden, buttery bread slices. The combination of sharp cheddar, creamy mayo, and tangy pimento peppers creates a flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy pimento cheese filling that melts perfectly and delivers authentic Southern flavors in every bite
- Simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, making it an accessible comfort food option
- Quick preparation time of just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or weekend lunches
- Customizable with optional toppings like crispy bacon or fresh tomatoes to suit your taste preferences
- Golden, crispy exterior that provides the perfect contrast to the creamy, melted cheese interior
Why This Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds because it balances textures and flavors perfectly. The combination of finely and coarsely grated cheddar creates both creaminess and texture. Using mayonnaise on the bread exterior instead of butter ensures even browning and prevents burning.
The pimento cheese mixture includes cream cheese for extra richness and spices that complement without overpowering. Room temperature ingredients blend easily, creating a smooth spread that melts evenly during cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese
This sandwich offers comfort food at its finest. The homemade pimento cheese tastes far superior to store-bought versions, and you control the spice level. It’s versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack.
The recipe serves four people generously, making it perfect for family meals. Kids love the creamy cheese filling, while adults appreciate the sophisticated flavor profile that sets it apart from ordinary grilled cheese.
What You’ll Need for Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity (Approx) | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) | Adds richness and helps bind the pimento mixture |
| Extra-sharp yellow cheddar cheese | 4 ounces | Main cheese component, provides sharp flavor |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup, divided | Binds filling and creates crispy exterior |
| Diced pimento peppers | 1/4 cup, drained | Classic Southern flavor and color |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground | Enhances overall flavor profile |
| Onion powder | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds subtle savory depth |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/8 teaspoon | Provides gentle heat and complexity |
| White sandwich bread | 8 slices, hearty | Sturdy base that holds filling well |
Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Box grater | Grates cheese to different textures for optimal melting |
| Medium mixing bowl | Combines pimento cheese ingredients thoroughly |
| Flexible spatula | Mixes ingredients without breaking cheese pieces |
| Large nonstick or cast-iron skillet | Cooks sandwiches evenly with proper browning |
| Cutting board | Safe surface for cutting finished sandwiches |
How to Make Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. Prepare cream cheese | Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or microwave for 10 seconds until soft |
| 2. Grate cheddar cheese | Grate 2 ounces on large holes, 2 ounces on small holes of box grater |
| 3. Make pimento mixture | Combine cream cheese, both cheeses, 1/4 cup mayo, pimentos, and all spices |
| 4. Prepare bread | Spread remaining mayo on one side of each bread slice |
| 5. Assemble sandwiches | Place pimento mixture on non-mayo side, add optional toppings, close sandwiches |
| 6. Cook sandwiches | Cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts |
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother pimento cheese consistency
- Grate cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded for better melting and flavor
- Don’t overheat the skillet – medium heat prevents burning while ensuring proper melting
- Press sandwiches gently with spatula while cooking to help cheese melt evenly
- Let sandwiches rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking before cutting to prevent filling from oozing out
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Tips
Serve Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese immediately while hot and crispy. Cut diagonally for easier handling and attractive presentation. Pair with comforting sides like chicken casserole for a complete Southern meal.
These sandwiches complement tomato soup, pickles, or fresh fruit. For entertaining, cut into quarters as appetizers. Store leftover pimento cheese mixture in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese
Don’t use cold cream cheese, as it won’t mix properly with other ingredients. Avoid cooking on high heat, which burns the exterior before the cheese melts inside.
Never skip draining the pimentos – excess liquid makes soggy sandwiches. Don’t overfill sandwiches, as this causes messy spillage during cooking. Using thin bread leads to tearing under the weight of the filling.
You Must Know
- Mayo on bread exterior creates better browning than butter and prevents sticking to the pan
- Different grating sizes for cheese ensure both creaminess and texture in the final product
- Pimento peppers must be thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture in the mixture
- Medium heat is crucial for achieving golden exterior while properly melting the cheese filling
Tips and Tricks for Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese
Make pimento cheese ahead and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavors. Bring to room temperature before using for easier spreading. Try different bread types like sourdough or whole grain for variety.
Add crispy bacon, sliced tomatoes, or caramelized onions for extra flavor. For lighter versions, use reduced-fat cream cheese and mayo. Check out this traditional pimento cheese recipe for comparison.
Suggestions for Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese
Transform this recipe by adding sliced ham or turkey for protein. Try different cheese combinations like adding sharp white cheddar or pepper jack for heat variation.
Serve alongside creamy pasta dishes for contrasting textures. For dessert, follow with light cloud cake. Visit Serious Eats for more sandwich inspiration.
FAQ for Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese
FAQs:
Yes, you can prepare the pimento cheese mixture up to one week in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before using for easier spreading.
Hearty white sandwich bread works best as it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing. Sourdough or thick-cut Texas toast are excellent alternatives for extra flavor and structure.
While possible, freezing isn’t recommended as it changes the texture of the mayonnaise and cream cheese, making the mixture grainy when thawed. Fresh pimento cheese keeps well refrigerated for up to one week.
Mayonnaise spreads more evenly than cold butter and has a higher smoke point, preventing burning while creating a perfectly golden, crispy exterior that doesn’t stick to the pan.
Don’t overfill the sandwiches, keep heat at medium, and avoid pressing too hard with the spatula. Let sandwiches rest briefly after cooking before cutting to allow the cheese to set slightly.
Conclusion
Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese elevates the classic comfort food sandwich with authentic Southern flavors. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. The homemade pimento cheese mixture creates a rich, creamy filling that melts beautifully between crispy, golden bread.
Perfect for family dinners, casual entertaining, or satisfying comfort food cravings, this sandwich brings warmth and flavor to any meal. The combination of sharp cheddar, tangy pimentos, and perfectly seasoned cream cheese creates an unforgettable taste experience that celebrates Southern culinary tradition.
More Easy Recipes Recipes:
- Huckleberry Balsamic Vinaigrette – Easy 5-Minute Recipe
- S’mores Chocolate Graham Pancakes – Easy Baked Recipe
- Savory Brunch Croque Madame Waffles
- Creamy Cucumber Dill Dip Recipe – Easy 15-Minute Appetizer
Recommended
📖 Recipe Card
Southern Pimento Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) cream cheese, room temperature
- 4 ounces extra-sharp yellow cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, divided
- 1/4 cup diced pimento peppers, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 8 slices hearty white sandwich bread
Instructions
- Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or microwave for 10 seconds until soft
- Grate 2 ounces cheddar on large holes and 2 ounces on small holes of box grater
- Combine cream cheese, both grated cheeses, 1/4 cup mayo, pimentos, and all spices in a bowl
- Spread remaining mayo on one side of each bread slice
- Place pimento mixture on non-mayo side, add optional toppings, close sandwiches
- Cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother consistency
- Grate cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded for better melting
- Don’t overheat the skillet – medium heat prevents burning
- Press sandwiches gently with spatula while cooking
- Let sandwiches rest 1-2 minutes after cooking before cutting
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
