🧀 Keto Pimento Cheese 😋

This creamy, cheesy pimento spread is low-carb, rich, tangy, and super easy to make. Traditional pimento cheese is built around cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimentos, with cream cheese commonly added for extra creaminess.

🥣 Ingredients

  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup full-fat mayonnaise
  • 4 oz jar diced pimentos, very well drained
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper — optional
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika — optional
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard — optional
  • Salt, to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese
    Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes so it mixes smoothly.
  2. Prepare the pimentos
    Drain the pimentos very well. Excess liquid can make the cheese spread watery. Chop them a little smaller if the pieces are large.
  3. Make the creamy base
    Add softened cream cheese and mayonnaise to a large mixing bowl. Beat with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add seasonings
    Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard if using.
  5. Add the cheese
    Fold in the freshly shredded sharp cheddar. Freshly shredded cheese gives a softer, creamier texture than many pre-shredded cheeses.
  6. Add pimentos
    Gently fold in the drained pimentos until they’re evenly distributed.
  7. Taste and adjust
    Add a little salt if needed. For extra heat, add more cayenne or a few drops of hot sauce.
  8. Chill
    Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. The flavor becomes even better as it sits.

🥒 Keto Serving Ideas

Serve with:

  • Celery sticks
  • Cucumber slices
  • Bell-pepper strips
  • Low-carb crackers
  • Pork rinds
  • Lettuce wraps
  • Spread onto a low-carb tortilla
  • As a topping for burgers
  • Stuffed into mini peppers

⭐ Tips

  • Use sharp cheddar for the strongest flavor.
  • Drain the pimentos really well.
  • Don’t overmix after adding the cheddar—you want a nice, slightly chunky texture.
  • For a spicy keto version, add diced jalapeños and extra cayenne.
  • For a smoky version, use smoked cheddar or smoked Gouda.

Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator and use within about 3–4 days for best quality.

Yield: About 2½ cups
Prep: 10 minutes
Chill: 1 hour
Cook: None
Difficulty: Easy