Pimento Cheese Party Recipe

Prepare cheese and cream base

Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before starting so it softens. Finely shred the sharp cheddar on the small side of a box grater or use a food processor with a shredding disk for a consistent texture. Place the shredded cheddar in a large mixing bowl.

Combine soft cheeses and emulsifiers

Add the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise to the shredded cheddar. Use a flexible spatula or a stand mixer on low speed to fold the mixture together until mostly homogenous but still slightly textured — do not overbeat; you want some small cheese strands for mouthfeel (about 30–60 seconds by hand or 20–30 seconds in the mixer).

Add flavorings

Stir in the drained, finely chopped pimentos, thinly sliced green onions, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and lemon juice until evenly distributed. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper and mix again. Taste and adjust seasoning: add up to an additional 1/2 teaspoon salt or 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce if desired.

Texture adjustment and chilling

If the mixture seems too stiff for spreading, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise and stir to achieve a spreadable consistency. Transfer the pimento cheese to an airtight container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Press a piece of parchment or plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate at least 1 hour (preferably 3–4 hours or overnight) to allow flavors to meld and the texture to firm up for easier slicing/spreading.

Garnish

Before serving, remove the pimento cheese from the refrigerator 10–15 minutes to come slightly closer to room temperature for better spreadability. Sprinkle the top with smoked paprika and chopped parsley if using.

Slice Zingerman's Bakehouse pumpernickel bread about 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick and arrange on a serving board. If desired, lightly toast some slices for guests who prefer a crisp accompaniment.

Place the chilled pimento cheese in a bowl or molded onto a shallow serving dish. Provide a butter knife or small spreader for guests. Surround with pumpernickel slices, crackers, and raw vegetables as desired.

If making ahead for a party, keep the pimento cheese chilled until 15 minutes before serving. For a decorative touch, top with additional sliced pimentos and a few green onion rings.