Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe Savory GrainPimento Cheese Recipe

Pimento Cheese Recipe

Inspired by The Savory Grain
Time50m
Serves6

Goat cheese, VT white cheddar, cream cheese and fire roasted red peppers. Served with toasted baguette.

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Ingredients

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Pimento Cheese

Method

Pimento Cheese

  1. 1

    Prepare peppers

    If using jarred fire-roasted red peppers, drain well and pat dry with paper towels. Finely chop into small dice (about 1/8 - 1/4 inch). Reserve any small amount of reserved liquid; discard excess.

  2. 2

    Soften cheeses

    Ensure the cream cheese and goat cheese are at room temperature so they blend smoothly (about 20–30 minutes at room temperature). Grate the white cheddar if not pre-shredded.

  3. 3

    Mix base

    In a medium bowl, add the softened cream cheese and goat cheese. Using a sturdy spatula or electric hand mixer on low, beat until mostly smooth (a few small chunks are fine for texture).

  4. 4

    Add remaining ingredients

    Add the shredded Vermont white cheddar, chopped fire-roasted peppers, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire, smoked paprika, and hot sauce (if using). Fold together with the spatula until evenly combined.

  5. 5

    Season and adjust

    Taste and season with kosher salt and black pepper, adjusting to preference. If mixture is too stiff, add 1 tsp mayonnaise at a time to loosen. If you want brighter flavor, add up to another 1/2 tsp lemon juice.

  6. 6

    Chill and meld

    Transfer the pimento cheese to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. It can be made up to 24 hours ahead; bring to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving.

  7. 7

    Garnish

    Just before serving, sprinkle the top with sliced chives and a light dusting of smoked paprika for color.

Toasted Baguette

  1. 8

    Slice baguette

    Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Slice the baguette on a slight diagonal into 1/2-inch thick slices, yielding about 12–14 slices from a standard baguette.

  2. 9

    Brush and toast

    Arrange slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice lightly with melted butter or olive oil on both sides. Toast in the preheated oven for 6–8 minutes, flipping once halfway, until edges are golden and crisp.

  3. 10

    Optional garlic rub and finish

    If using, rub the cut side of the halved garlic clove over the warm toasts for a hint of garlic. Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt.

  4. 11

    Serve

    Arrange toasted baguette slices on a board around the chilled pimento cheese. Provide a small spreader or butter knife so guests can spread the cheese onto the toasts.

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