Nothing says Southern hospitality quite like a homemade Brenda Gantt pimento cheese recipe that’s been passed down through generations. This beloved spread has earned its place as the “caviar of the South,” and Brenda Gantt’s version takes this classic comfort food to new heights with her time-tested techniques and authentic ingredients.
Brenda Gantt pimento cheese recipe combines the perfect blend of sharp and mild cheddar cheeses with creamy elements and roasted red peppers, creating a spread that’s infinitely better than store-bought alternatives. While the initial investment in quality ingredients might seem substantial, this recipe yields an impressive amount that will keep your family satisfied for weeks.
What sets this Brenda Gantt pimento cheese recipe apart is its emphasis on using fresh, block cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, ensuring the smoothest texture and most robust flavor possible. The secret lies in the overnight chilling process that allows all flavors to meld together perfectly.
My Personal Experience with Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese Recipe
When I first attempted this Brenda Gantt pimento cheese recipe, I was skeptical about the seemingly small amount of mayonnaise called for such a large quantity of cheese. However, following Brenda’s instructions exactly proved to be the key to success. The patience required for the overnight chilling process tested my resolve, but the results were absolutely worth the wait.
The texture of this Brenda Gantt pimento cheese recipe surprised me most – it maintained a beautiful, fluffy consistency rather than becoming dense or gummy like many homemade versions. The combination of extra sharp cheddar with mild cheddar creates a perfect balance that appeals to both cheese lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.
Making this Brenda Gantt pimento cheese recipe has become a weekend tradition in my household. The aroma of freshly grated cheese filling the kitchen brings back memories of Southern gatherings and family reunions. Each bite delivers that authentic taste that simply cannot be replicated by commercial brands.
Ingredients Required for Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese Recipe
- 1 pound (16 oz) extra sharp cheddar cheese, block form
- 8 oz mild cheddar cheese, block form
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1¼ cups mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Pinch of black pepper
- 2 jars (7 oz each) pimentos, drained
- 1 jar (12 oz) roasted red peppers, drained and finely chopped
Kitchen Utensils List
- Food processor with grating attachment
- Large mixing bowl
- Two mixing spoons
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Paper towels
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight storage container
- Colander for draining
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chilling Time: Overnight (minimum 8 hours)
- Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: Makes approximately 6 cups
Copycat Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Prepare the Cheese: Cut both cheddar cheese blocks into chunks that fit your food processor feed tube. Allow cream cheese to come to room temperature.
- Grate the Cheese: Using your food processor’s grating attachment, grate both the extra sharp and mild cheddar cheeses. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Add Cream Cheese: Pinch the room temperature cream cheese into small clumps and add to the grated cheese.
- Prepare Peppers: Drain pimentos thoroughly. Drain roasted red peppers and chop them finely with a sharp knife. Pat dry with paper towels if needed.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Add Peppers: Incorporate the drained pimentos and chopped roasted red peppers.
- Mix Gently: Using two spoons, toss all ingredients together gently to maintain a fluffy texture. Avoid overmixing to prevent the mixture from becoming gummy.
- Chill Overnight: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate overnight before serving. This step is crucial for proper flavor development.
Storage Guidance for Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese Leftovers
Store your Brenda Gantt pimento cheese recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The high-quality ingredients and proper preparation method ensure excellent longevity. Always use clean utensils when serving to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.
Serving Ideas for Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese
- Classic Crackers: Serve with buttery round crackers or crispy saltines for traditional Southern snacking
- Grilled Sandwiches: Spread between white bread slices and grill until golden for the ultimate comfort food sandwich
- Stuffed Celery: Fill celery stalks for a crunchy, protein-rich appetizer perfect for parties
- Corn Chip Dip: Use as a creamy dip with tortilla chips for casual gatherings
- Bagel Spread: Top toasted everything bagels for a Southern twist on breakfast
Tips for Perfect Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Use Block Cheese Only: Never substitute pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that affect texture and flavor
- Don’t Rush the Mayo: Start with the exact amount called for – you can always adjust after the overnight chill
- Drain Thoroughly: Ensure pimentos and roasted red peppers are well-drained to prevent a watery consistency
- Gentle Mixing: Toss ingredients with spoons rather than stirring aggressively to maintain the fluffy texture
- Temperature Matters: Bring cream cheese to room temperature for easier incorporation and smoother results
This authentic Brenda Gantt pimento cheese recipe represents Southern cuisine at its finest, delivering homemade quality that far surpasses any store-bought alternative.
While the initial investment in quality ingredients requires commitment, the superior taste and generous yield make it worthwhile for any cheese lover. Try this treasured recipe today and discover why it’s earned its place in Southern kitchens for generations!
Brenda Gantt Pimento Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound 16 oz extra sharp cheddar cheese, block form
- 8 oz mild cheddar cheese block form
- 8 oz cream cheese room temperature
- 1¼ cups mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Pinch of black pepper
- 2 jars 7 oz each pimentos, drained
- 1 jar 12 oz roasted red peppers, drained and finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Cut both cheddar cheese blocks into chunks that fit your food processor feed tube. Allow cream cheese to come to room temperature.
- Grate the Cheese: Using your food processor’s grating attachment, grate both the extra sharp and mild cheddar cheeses. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Add Cream Cheese: Pinch the room temperature cream cheese into small clumps and add to the grated cheese.
- Prepare Peppers: Drain pimentos thoroughly. Drain roasted red peppers and chop them finely with a sharp knife. Pat dry with paper towels if needed.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Add Peppers: Incorporate the drained pimentos and chopped roasted red peppers.
- Mix Gently: Using two spoons, toss all ingredients together gently to maintain a fluffy texture. Avoid overmixing to prevent the mixture from becoming gummy.
- Chill Overnight: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate overnight before serving. This step is crucial for proper flavor development.
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Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this pimento cheese recipe?
No, pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that will negatively affect both the texture and flavor of your pimento cheese. Always use block cheese and grate it yourself for the best results.
Why do I need to wait overnight before eating the pimento cheese?
The overnight chilling period allows all the flavors to meld together properly and helps achieve the ideal texture. Eating it immediately won’t give you the full flavor experience that makes this recipe special.
How long will this pimento cheese last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this pimento cheese will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. The high-quality ingredients and proper preparation method contribute to its longevity.
Can I reduce the amount of mayonnaise in the recipe?
It’s best to follow the recipe exactly as written for your first attempt. The amount of mayonnaise might seem small for the quantity of cheese, but it’s perfectly calibrated for the best texture and taste.
What’s the difference between pimentos and roasted red peppers in this recipe?
Pimentos are small, sweet peppers that provide the classic pimento cheese flavor, while roasted red peppers add additional depth and a slightly smoky taste that enhances the overall complexity of the spread.
Can I freeze this pimento cheese for later use?
Freezing is not recommended as it can cause the mixture to separate and become grainy when thawed. This recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, which should provide plenty of time to enjoy it fresh.
What type of crackers work best with this pimento cheese?
Classic round buttery crackers, saltines, or water crackers all work wonderfully. The key is choosing crackers that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the cheese mixture while providing a satisfying crunch.
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So simple and delicious