When I moved to the South, I quickly learned that no party table was complete without a bowl of pimento cheese. In Mississippi, Elizabeth Heiskell, known as the Debutante Farmer, is famous for her tailgating recipes, and her pimento cheese is one of her signature dishes. It combines sharp white cheddar and Parmesan with roasted peppers, crunchy pecans, and a gentle touch of spice. I have made it many times for potlucks and family gatherings, and it always disappears before anything else. If you want a quick dip or sandwich spread that everyone will enjoy, this Elizabeth Heiskell pimento cheese recipe is just what you need.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Simple Ingredients: This Elizabeth Heiskell pimento cheese recipe only needs shredded white cheddar, Parmesan, mayonnaise, roasted red peppers, pecans, and green onions.
- No Cooking Required: You just need to shred, chop, and stir. The spread is ready in about ten minutes.
- Versatility: Serve it on crackers or sandwiches, scoop it with celery, melt it over burgers, or make a grilled cheese that feels extra special.
- Make Ahead: The flavor improves after chilling. Prepare it a day in advance and let the ingredients blend.
What Is Pimento Cheese?
Pimento cheese, often called Southern caviar, is a spread made with shredded cheddar, mayonnaise, and sweet red peppers. Pimentos are small, mild red peppers, though roasted red bell peppers work just as well. Some recipes add cream cheese for extra richness, while others keep it simple with just mayonnaise and cheddar.
It can be chunky or smooth and is loved for its versatility. You can enjoy it on crackers, in sandwiches, stuffed into celery, or melted on burgers and hot dogs.
Why You Will Love This Pimento Cheese Recipe
Elizabeth Heiskell’s pimento cheese is special because it simply layers flavor and texture. She combines sharp white cheddar with Parmesan for a rich, savory base. Mayonnaise adds creaminess, while roasted red peppers bring a tangy sweetness. Instead of pickles, she uses chopped pecans for crunch and green onions for freshness. A touch of Tabasco, Creole seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce adds gentle heat and depth.
What makes it even better is how easy it is to prepare. You only need a bowl and a spoon, and the result is creamy, flavorful, and hearty enough to serve as a dip or spread.
Variations You Can Try
Spicy Pimento Cheese
If you enjoy a little heat, add diced jalapeño or chipotle peppers. Remove the seeds if you want a milder flavor. You can also sprinkle in cayenne or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Light and Creamy Version
To make a lighter spread, swap half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also use reduced-fat cream cheese instead of Parmesan for extra smoothness. A splash of lemon juice or a spoonful of Dijon mustard brightens the flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill add color and freshness without extra fat.
Pimento Cheese with Extra Crunch
For more texture, stir in toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped into small pieces. You can also add diced pickles or celery for a crisp bite. For a sweet twist, fold in a little bread-and-butter pickle or sweet relish. If you want a bolder flavor, replace some of the roasted peppers with sun-dried tomatoes.
Recipe for Elizabeth Heiskell Pimento Cheese
Elizabeth Heiskell Pimento Cheese Recipe
10
servings10
minutes0
minutes280
kcal10
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
2 cups (8 ounces) white cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
6 ounces roasted red peppers, diced and drained
¼ cup pecans, chopped
¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced
¼ teaspoon Tabasco or other hot sauce
¼ teaspoon Creole seasoning
¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
How to Make Elizabeth Heiskell Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Preparing the Cheese Base
Shred a block of white cheddar cheese for the best texture, since pre-shredded cheese often has a coating that changes the consistency. Place the shredded cheddar in a large mixing bowl, add the shredded Parmesan, and stir in the mayonnaise. Mix until the cheeses are fully coated to create a smooth and creamy base. - Adding the Pimentos and Seasoning
Finely dice the roasted red peppers and drain off any liquid. Stir them into the cheese base along with the chopped pecans and green onions. Add Tabasco, Creole seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. The hot sauce adds a gentle kick, while the seasoning and Worcestershire bring rich, savory depth. Taste and add a small pinch of salt if needed. - Mixing to the Right Texture
Fold everything together with a sturdy spoon until the mixture is creamy but still has texture. You should see bits of cheese and pecans throughout. If the mixture feels too thick, add a spoonful of mayonnaise. If it seems too thin, stir in more shredded cheese. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors blend.
Tips for the Best Pimento Cheese
Choosing the Right Cheese
Use a block of sharp or extra-sharp cheddar and shred it yourself. Bagged cheese has coatings that change the texture. White cheddar keeps the spread lighter, but yellow cheddar works too. Parmesan adds a nice nutty taste, and you can also try aged Gouda or Gruyère. Skip mild cheese because it makes the spread taste bland.
Balancing Creaminess and Flavor
Mayonnaise gives the spread its creaminess, but don’t overdo it. Start with the amount in the recipe and add more only if the mix feels too thick. The cheese holds its shape while still being creamy. Let the spread chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving so the flavors come together.
How to Serve Elizabeth Heiskell Pimento Cheese
This spread is one of the most versatile dishes you can make. Serve it with crackers, celery sticks, or sliced cucumber for an easy appetizer. For a classic Southern touch, spread it on soft white bread to make a pimento cheese sandwich. It also melts beautifully, which makes it perfect for grilled cheese, burgers, or hot dogs.
I often use it as a topping for baked potatoes or spoon it into deviled eggs for extra flavor. It also makes a quick snack with pretzels or tortilla chips. Since this Elizabeth Heiskell pimento cheese recipe makes about ten servings, you will have plenty to enjoy in different ways.
Storage and Make Ahead Tips
How Long Does It Last in the Fridge
Homemade pimento cheese will keep in the fridge for up to five days. Store it in an airtight container so it does not pick up other flavors. The spread may thicken as it chills, so stir in a spoon of mayonnaise or yogurt if it feels too stiff. If you are making it for a party, prepare it a day ahead so the flavors have time to blend.
Can You Freeze Pimento Cheese?
Freezing is not the best option because mayonnaise can separate after thawing, which makes the texture grainy. If you do need to freeze it, mix in some cream cheese before freezing to help stabilize it. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving. For the best taste and texture, it is better to enjoy it fresh or within a few days of making.
Nutrition Information
Calories and Macronutrients
This recipe makes about ten servings. Each serving, which is about ¼ cup, has roughly 280 calories. It contains around 24 grams of fat, 9 grams of protein, and 3 grams of carbohydrates.
Health Benefits
Even though pimento cheese is a rich treat, it does offer some benefits. Cheddar and Parmesan provide calcium and protein that support bone health and muscle function. Pecans add heart-healthy fats, and the red peppers bring vitamin C and antioxidants.
FAQs
What makes Elizabeth Heiskell’s pimento cheese recipe special?
Her version stands out because she uses two kinds of cheese, sharp white cheddar and Parmesan, for depth of flavor. She also adds chopped pecans for crunch, green onions for freshness, and a touch of seasoning that gives the spread a subtle kick.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but shredding your own cheese makes a big difference. Pre-shredded cheese is coated with anti-caking agents that affect the texture and flavor. For the creamiest and richest spread, use a block of cheese and shred it yourself.
How do I keep the spread from becoming watery?
Make sure to drain the roasted red peppers well before adding them. If liquid collects at the bottom after storing, simply stir the spread before serving. Using freshly shredded cheese also helps keep the mixture firm.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it has just a gentle heat from a dash of Tabasco and Creole seasoning. If you prefer a spicier version, you can add more hot sauce, diced jalapeño, or even chipotle peppers.
How long does homemade pimento cheese last?
It will keep in the fridge for up to five days if stored in an airtight container. The flavor even improves after chilling overnight.
Can I freeze pimento cheese?
Freezing is not ideal because mayonnaise can separate after thawing, which makes the texture grainy. If you must freeze it, mix in some cream cheese first to help stabilize it. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving. For the best texture, enjoy it fresh.
