Pimento Goat Cheese Spread: A luxurious, tangy, and undeniably creamy reinterpretation of a cherished Southern tradition. This irresistible spread is a true culinary chameleon, perfect for elevating any dish or occasion. Whether served as an elegant appetizer, slathered generously on toasted bread, or used as a gourmet topping for a juicy burger, its addictive flavor profile promises to delight and impress.
Embracing the Unforgettable Flavor of Pimento Cheese
Are you a devoted cheese aficionado, much like myself? I’m not referring to a sports fan adorned with a cheese hat, but rather someone who finds joy in incorporating every conceivable form of cheese into meals, snacks, and everything in between. If cheese holds a special place in your heart, then you’re about to discover a truly exceptional delight: Pimento Goat Cheese Spread.
My journey with pimento cheese, often revered as “the caviar of the South,” began in childhood. Growing up with a mother deeply rooted in Southern culinary traditions, a jar of Kraft Pimento Cheese spread was a perpetual fixture in our refrigerator. It made its grand appearance at every Thanksgiving and Christmas, elegantly spread onto celery stalks and arranged on a vibrant veggie platter, taking center stage at our holiday table. Beyond festive occasions, we devoured it on crackers and, I must confess, often straight from the spoon. That store-bought version held a nostalgic charm, but let me assure you, it pales in comparison to the authentic, homemade pimento cheese that defines Southern hospitality and flavor.
The Unrivaled Taste of Homemade Pimento Cheese
Southerners possess an extraordinary knack for crafting delicious food. From crispy fried chicken and wholesome cornbread to creamy grits, smoky barbecue, and spicy Creole dishes, their culinary repertoire is simply outstanding. The concept of blending sharp cheddar cheese with rich mayonnaise, vibrant pimentos, and a medley of spices is, in itself, pure genius. While the convenience of a store-bought jar is undeniable, the difference in taste and quality between pre-packaged and homemade pimento cheese is monumental.
The ready-made varieties often contain preservatives and lack the fresh, robust flavor that homemade versions boast. Taking just a few extra minutes to prepare it yourself transforms a simple spread into a gourmet experience. The texture is smoother, the cheese flavor more pronounced, and the pimentos brighter. Trust me, the minimal effort required is overwhelmingly rewarded with a vastly superior taste that you simply can’t find on a supermarket shelf. You control the quality of ingredients, ensuring a fresher, more authentic, and ultimately more delicious result every time.
Versatility Beyond Expectation: How to Enjoy Pimento Goat Cheese Spread
One of the most remarkable aspects of pimento cheese spread, aside from its inherent cheesiness, is its incredible versatility. As a child, our mother strategically used it on celery to encourage us to eat our greens—a clever tactic that worked wonders. But its applications extend far beyond a humble celery stick. It’s a classic companion for crisp crackers, makes an exceptionally satisfying sandwich when nestled between two slices of soft white bread, and, a personal favorite, serves as an epic topping for a hearty burger. The creamy texture and tangy notes make it a perfect contrast to savory meats and crunchy vegetables.
Consider it as a delectable dip for pretzels or crudités, a flavorful stuffing for bell peppers, or even as a secret ingredient in your next grilled cheese sandwich for an elevated experience. The possibilities are truly endless, limited only by your imagination. It’s a spread that can effortlessly transition from a casual snack to an impressive party appetizer, making it a staple in any well-stocked kitchen.
A Culinary Revelation in Austin: The Pimento Cheese Burger Experience
A few months ago, while exploring the vibrant culinary scene of Austin, Texas, I encountered pimento cheese in a truly transformative way: on a burger. This unforgettable experience took place at Moonshine Patio Bar and Grill, a restaurant that delivered, without exaggeration, one of the best meals of my life. I genuinely remember walking away from that dining experience feeling utterly awestruck, and I found myself still raving about it months later. If your travels ever take you to Austin, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to Moonshine; it’s an absolute must-try. Austin itself is an incredible city, bursting with incredible food, a fantastic bar scene, a plethora of unique sights, and wonderfully welcoming people.
But back to that pimento cheese burger. It was, in a word, sublime. The burger was also generously adorned with crispy bacon, an addition that elevated the entire dish to another level, providing the perfect counterpoint of salty crunch to the creamy, tangy pimento cheese. While I’ve long been a fan of making pimento cheese paninis at home, for some inexplicable reason, I had never considered adding bacon. Now, bacon is an essential, non-negotiable component of any pimento cheese creation in my kitchen. The combination of savory meat, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon creates a symphony of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible.
Crafting the Perfect Blend: Inspiration from Culinary Masters
This particular pimento goat cheese spread recipe is a delightful fusion, born from the inspiration of two culinary greats. I am a huge admirer of Bobby Deen and his approach to Southern cooking. A while back, I acquired his cookbook, From Mama’s Table to Mine. What I adore about this book is how it reinterprets beloved Southern dishes from his upbringing, making them lighter and healthier without sacrificing flavor. It meticulously details the nutritional differences between his mother’s traditional versions and his lighter adaptations, showcasing a remarkable improvement. The pimento cheese spread was one of the first recipes in the book and the very first I attempted. It was so incredibly delicious that as soon as the initial batch vanished, I immediately whipped up another to keep stocked in the fridge.
My quest for new flavors continued, and while perusing Food Network magazine, a recipe by Katie Lee for a goat cheese pimento spread immediately captured my attention. This recipe is featured in her fantastic cookbook, Endless Summer, a book I am eager to add to my collection. My affection for goat cheese is well-known, and Katie Lee’s culinary style, often featured on Food Network, is always inspiring. I wanted to honor the classic Southern pimento cheese while also incorporating Katie Lee’s intriguing goat cheese twist. The solution? A culinary marriage of the two recipes, resulting in a truly blissful pimento goat cheese spread. The creamy, tangy goat cheese, combined with the rich, smoky notes of smoked cheddar, adds an incredible depth and complexity of flavor that truly elevates this spread beyond the ordinary. Give it a try, and you’ll be thanking me, Bobby, and Katie—or perhaps just me, for introducing you to this delightful creation!
Print Recipe
Pimento Goat Cheese Spread
Prep Time:
Total Time:
Author: Strawberry Blondie Kitchen
Yields: 1 1/2 cups
This Pimento Goat Cheese Spread offers a delightful tangy, creamy twist on the beloved Southern classic. It’s an incredibly versatile spread perfect for appetizers, sandwiches, or as a gourmet burger topping.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened (Neufchâtel recommended)
- 6 tablespoons mayonnaise (light mayonnaise can be used)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 Tablespoons jarred pimentos, well-drained
- 4 ounces smoked cheddar, freshly grated (avoid pre-packaged for best results)*
- 2 ounces sharp cheddar, freshly grated (avoid pre-packaged for best results)*
- A pinch each of salt and freshly grated black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In the bowl of an electric stand mixer, using the paddle attachment, cream together the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Carefully stir in the remaining ingredients: mayonnaise, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and drained pimentos. Mix until just combined.
- Season the spread with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Taste and adjust as needed.
- Serve this delightful spread with a variety of accompaniments: crisp crackers, fresh celery sticks, sliced radishes, as a filling between two slices of white bread, or generously spread on top of your favorite burger.
Notes
*For the cheeses, it is highly recommended to purchase blocks of cheese and grate them yourself. Pre-packaged shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect both the texture and flavor of your spread. Freshly grated cheese ensures superior quality and taste.
This recipe is an adaptation inspired by: Bobby Deen’s From Mama’s Table to Mine and Katie Lee’s Pimento Goat Cheese Spread.
Course: Spread, Appetizer
Cuisine: Southern, American
Exciting Future Recipes and Your Culinary Creations
Stay tuned because this incredible Pimento Goat Cheese Spread is just the beginning! This Friday, I’ll be sharing an exciting new recipe that prominently features this versatile and delicious spread, creating another must-try dish you won’t want to miss. It’s a testament to how this simple spread can inspire endless culinary creativity.
I genuinely hope you enjoy making and savoring this recipe as much as I do. There’s immense satisfaction in creating something so flavorful and adaptable in your own kitchen. If you do whip up a batch, please share your beautiful photos on social media! Remember to use the hashtag #strawberryblondiekitchen so I can discover and admire your unique versions. I absolutely love seeing how you interpret and enjoy these recipes. Happy cooking!