Looking for a next-level party dip or a killer topping for your burger? This creamy pimento cheese is exactly what you need. Loaded with sharp cheddar, mellow Monterey Jack, fresh onion, and just the right kick from Heath Riles BBQ Everyday Rub, it’s rich, tangy, and spreads like a dream. Serve it on crackers, melt it on a sandwich, or eat it straight out of the bowl—I won’t judge.

This recipe is a summertime staple at my house. I first had it at a buddy’s backyard get-together, and after one bite, I knew I had to recreate it. Since then, it’s become a fridge essential and the first thing gone at every party.

Classic Southern Pimento Cheese | Heath Riles BBQ

This isn’t the pre-packed kind you get at the grocery store. This homemade pimento cheese is thick, rich, and full of real-deal flavor. It comes together in one bowl and only gets better the longer it chills. Make it ahead for cookouts, game days, or lazy Sunday snacking—it’s versatile, easy, and addictive. For the full step-by-step recipe video, check it out here. 

The Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make a bowl of cheesy, Southern-style goodness.

Sharp cheddar cheese. I used 24 oz of shredded sharp cheddar for that signature tang and bite.

Monterey Jack cheese. A milder cheese that balances out the sharpness. I used 16 oz, shredded.

Cream cheese. One full block (8 oz), softened and cubed so it mixes easily. This gives the spread its rich, creamy texture.

Pimentos. One 4 oz jar of diced pimentos, liquid included. Leaving the liquid in makes it more spreadable, but you can drain it if you want it thicker.

Fresh onion. About 1/3 cup of grated onion. Adds just the right amount of bite and freshness.

Mayonnaise. 3/4 cup of good-quality mayo—this binds everything and adds creaminess.

Seasonings. I added 1 tablespoon each of onion powder and garlic powder for extra flavor.

Heath Riles BBQ Everyday Rub. The game-changer. Add to taste to tie all the flavors together with that signature savory backbone.

Kitchen Setup

This recipe is as simple as it gets, but having the right gear makes it even smoother.

• Mixing bowl. Big enough to hold all your ingredients and give you room to stir.
• Spatula or large spoon. For mixing without making a mess.
• Grater. If you’re shredding cheese or grating fresh onion.
• Measuring cups and spoons. To keep everything balanced.
• Plastic wrap or lid. For covering and chilling the final mix.
• Gloves (optional). If you’re mixing by hand or working with a big batch.

The Process for Making Pimento Cheese

1. Start with the cheeses. Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack to a large mixing bowl. Toss in the cubed, softened cream cheese.
2. Season. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, grated onion, and a generous shake of Heath Riles BBQ Everyday Rub. It brings in bold, balanced flavor with no guesswork.
3. Add wet ingredients. Pour in the mayonnaise and the full jar of pimentos—liquid and all. This keeps the cheese mix soft and dippable. If you want a firmer texture, just drain the pimentos first.
4. Stir it all together. Use a spatula or big spoon to mix until everything’s evenly combined. You should end up with a thick, creamy spread with visible chunks of cheese and pimentos.
5. Chill and let the flavors develop. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—an hour is even better. I like to make mine the night before and let it sit overnight. The longer it chills, the better it tastes.

The Results

This pimento cheese hits all the right notes—sharp, creamy, tangy, and perfectly seasoned. It’s rich without being heavy, and the texture is perfect whether you’re spreading it or scooping it.

Serving Suggestions

This recipe is super versatile. Use it however you want—here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Smear it on a burger. Let it melt slightly over a hot patty for next-level flavor.
• Make a sandwich. Grilled, toasted, or plain—pimento cheese works all ways.
• Serve it as a dip. Grab some buttery crackers, chips, or fresh veggie sticks.
• Add it to deviled eggs. Yep, trust me—it works.
• Stuff it in mini peppers or jalapeños. Great as an appetizer.

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Give it a quick stir before serving if it’s been sitting, and you’re good to go. If you like it thicker after chilling, just add a touch more mayo to loosen it up.

Final Thoughts

This pimento cheese recipe is simple, bold, and built for sharing. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up with ingredients you probably already have on hand, and it always gets rave reviews. Whether you’re throwing a party or just want a snack that hits the spot, this one’s a winner.

Let me know how it turns out, and don’t forget to tag us when you make it!

Equipment and Tools

Large mixing bowl, Grater, Measuring cups and spoons, Spatula, Plastic wrap, Cutting board, Gloves