By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on December 18, 2023 | Last Updated on December 18, 2023
Brenda Gantt’s Pimento Cheese recipe is a comforting Southern classic that has won the hearts of many. This delightful blend of flavors has been featured in her newest cookbook, “Linger Around The Table Y’all”, and it’s not hard to see why it’s a fan favorite.
Combining the sharpness of cheddar cheese with the creaminess of cream cheese and mayonnaise, Brenda gives the dish an extra kick with chopped pimentos and a hint of garlic.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious sandwich filling, a unique topping for your burgers, or just a savory dip for your chips, this pimento cheese recipe promises a taste that will have you lingering around the table for more.
What is Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese?
Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese is a signature recipe created by Southern cook and author Brenda Gantt. It is a popular dish that features a combination of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, chopped pimentos, and garlic for added flavor.
This versatile spread can be used as a sandwich filling, burger topping, or dip for chips and vegetables.
Pimento cheese has a long history in the Southern United States, with roots dating back to the early 1900s.
Originally made with just cheddar cheese and pimentos, it was often used as a sandwich filling for tea parties and luncheons. Over time, different variations of the recipe emerged, including Brenda Gantt’s version which adds cream cheese and other ingredients for a richer and creamier taste.
Why You’ll Love This Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese?
There are many reasons why you’ll love Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese. First and foremost, the combination of sharp cheddar cheese and creamy cream cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The addition of mayonnaise adds a touch of tanginess while the chopped pimentos add a burst of sweetness.
Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be used in so many ways. Spread it on crackers for a delicious snack, use it as a filling for grilled cheese or paninis, or mix it with shredded chicken for a tasty sandwich filling. The possibilities are endless!
Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese is also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of this cheesy goodness in no time. It is the perfect dish to bring to potlucks, picnics, or game day gatherings.
Finally, this recipe has been tried and tested by Brenda Gantt herself, ensuring that you are getting the most authentic and delicious pimento cheese experience possible.
How Does It Taste Like?
Describing the taste of Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese is not an easy task, as it truly is a unique and flavorful dish. The combination of creamy and tangy from the cream cheese, sharpness from the cheddar cheese, sweetness from the pimentos, and a hint of garlic all come together in perfect harmony.
The texture is also something to note – it is creamy and spreadable, making it perfect for sandwiches and dips. The pimentos add a slight crunch and burst of sweetness to each bite. Overall, this recipe provides a delicious balance of flavors and textures that will have you going back for seconds (or thirds!).
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Ingredients
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This is the star of the show in this recipe. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a depth of flavor and creaminess that forms the base of this dish. Its robustness stands up well to the other ingredients and provides the classic cheesy taste that pimento cheese is known for.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise acts as a binder in this recipe, bringing all the ingredients together and adding a layer of creaminess. It also works well with the cheese, creating a smooth and spreadable consistency.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is another crucial ingredient. It adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish and helps balance out the sharpness of the cheddar cheese. It also gives the pimento cheese a slightly tangy taste, adding to the overall complexity of flavors.
Diced Pimentos: Diced pimentos are the namesake ingredient of this dish. They add a unique, slightly sweet flavor and a pop of color to the cheese mixture. The pimentos also provide a contrasting texture, breaking up the creaminess of the cheese and mayonnaise.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is used to add an extra dimension of flavor to the pimento cheese. It brings a subtle hint of garlic, which complements the overall savory profile of the dish.
Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder enhances the flavor of the pimento cheese without overpowering it. It adds a slight sweetness and depth, making the dish even more flavorful.
Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper introduces a bit of heat to the dish. This can be adjusted according to personal preference. It provides a nice contrast to the creaminess of the cheeses and mayonnaise and the sweetness of the pimentos.
Salt and Pepper: These are essential seasonings in most recipes. In this dish, they help to enhance all the flavors and bring them together harmoniously. You can adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your taste.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cheddar Cheese
Begin by grating the cheddar cheese. Grating the cheese allows it to blend smoothly with the other ingredients in the recipe. Set the grated cheddar aside for now.
Step 2: Combine Cream Cheese and Mayonnaise
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and mayonnaise. This step is essential for achieving a creamy and smooth base for the pimento cheese spread. Be sure to blend them until the mixture is well incorporated.
Step 3: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Add the grated cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the cream cheese and mayonnaise mixture. These ingredients are the flavor powerhouses of the pimento cheese. The diced pimentos offer a sweet and slightly tangy note, while the spices add depth and a touch of heat.
Step 4: Thoroughly Combine the Ingredients
Now, it’s time to mix all the added ingredients. Use a spatula or a spoon to ensure that everything is well combined. The goal here is to evenly distribute the spices, pimentos, and cheddar cheese throughout the mixture. This is where the magic of pimento cheese comes to life.
Step 5: Allow the Flavors to Meld
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pimento cheese mixture for at least 1 hour. This step is critical for allowing the flavors to meld together. The refrigeration time helps the ingredients harmonize and results in a richer, more complex flavor profile.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
After the flavors have had time to meld, it’s time to savor your homemade pimento cheese. You can serve it as a dip for chips, spread it on sandwiches or burgers, or enjoy it on its own. Pimento cheese is a versatile and delicious condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Tips
- For extra flavor, use sharp white cheddar cheese instead of regular cheddar.
- Make sure to finely chop the pimentos so that they mix well with the other ingredients.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, blend all the ingredients in a food processor or blender.
- This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.
- Customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper used. You can also add in some hot sauce if you prefer a stronger kick.
Nutrition Information
How to store Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese?
This pimento cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to stir it before serving, as the ingredients may have separated slightly during storage. You can also freeze this pimento cheese for up to 3 months, but note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Simply let it defrost in the refrigerator before using.
What other substitute can I use for Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese?
- You can substitute the sharp cheddar cheese for a milder or different type of cheddar, such as smoked or aged white cheddar.
- Instead of mayonnaise, you can use plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Cream cheese can be substituted with goat cheese for a tangier taste.
- If you are not a fan of pimentos, try using roasted red peppers for a similar flavor and texture.
- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the shredded chicken and add in some diced bell peppers or celery for crunch.
- For added protein, mix in some chopped nuts like pecans or almonds.
- Consider adding some fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added freshness.
Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese Recipe
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- knife
- Chopping board
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese grated
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup diced pimentos drained
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
Instructions
- Grate the cheddar cheese and set it aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and mayonnaise until well blended.
- Add in the grated cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Mix all the ingredients until well combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve as a dip for chips, spread on sandwiches or burgers, or enjoy on its own!
Notes
- For extra flavor, use sharp white cheddar cheese instead of regular cheddar.
- Make sure to finely chop the pimentos so that they mix well with the other ingredients.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, blend all the ingredients in a food processor or blender.
- This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.
- Customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper used. You can also add in some hot sauce if you prefer a stronger kick.
FAQs
Can I adjust the heat of the recipe?
Definitely! The cayenne pepper in the recipe can be adjusted according to your personal preference. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more. If you’re not a fan of heat, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely.
Can I use fresh garlic and onion instead of the powders?
Absolutely! Fresh garlic and onion can be used in place of the powders for a more robust flavor. However, keep in mind that their flavors will be stronger, so you might want to adjust the quantities accordingly. Also, ensure they are finely minced to maintain the smooth texture of the pimento cheese.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
To make a vegan version of this pimento cheese, you can use vegan cheddar cheese, vegan cream cheese, and vegan mayonnaise. Ensure the other ingredients like the garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper are vegan-friendly as well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese is a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. With its rich and balanced flavors, easy preparation, and endless possibilities for use, it’s no wonder this recipe has won the hearts of many. Be sure to give it a try and see why you’ll be lingering around the table for more.
Also, share your experience with us in the comments below and let us know how you enjoyed this Southern classic.
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
