Delicious Pimento Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your grilled cheese game, look no further than this mouthwatering Pimento Grilled Cheese recipe. Inspired by a visit to Alabama and a newfound love for homemade pimento cheese, this sandwich is a game-changer. Imagine creamy and tangy pimento cheese oozing between perfectly toasted bread – a true comfort food delight.

After perfecting the pimento cheese mixture and mastering the art of grilling without burning, these sandwiches quickly became a household favorite. Just ask my neighbor Kim, whose teenagers went from complaining about boring lunches to craving these flavorful grilled cheese creations. Pair them with tomato soup or a crisp salad for a satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with additions like crispy bacon or spicy jalapeños, these Pimento Grilled Cheese sandwiches are sure to impress. So whip up a batch of pimento cheese, spread it generously between two slices of bread, and get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food bliss.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and tangy flavor profile that elevates the traditional grilled cheese experience
• Versatile – can be customized with additional ingredients like tomato slices, crispy bacon, hot sauce, or jalapeños
• Make-ahead option with pimento cheese lasting in the fridge for about a week and improving in flavor over time
• Reinvigorates interest in classic lunches, making them a hit with both kids and adults

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Pimento Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe Recipe

• Creamy and Tangy Flavor: The combination of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, diced pimento peppers, cream cheese, and mayonnaise creates a creamy and tangy flavor profile that is a game-changer for grilled cheese sandwiches.
• Homemade Pimento Cheese: Say goodbye to bland store-bought pimento cheese and hello to a homemade version that is flavorful and delicious, elevating the entire sandwich experience.
• Perfect Comfort Food: These pimento grilled cheese sandwiches are the epitome of comfort food, offering a satisfying meal that is both nostalgic and indulgent.
• Customizable: Add your own twist to the recipe by incorporating ingredients like tomato slices, crispy bacon, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños into the pimento cheese for a personalized flavor profile.
• Versatile Pairings: Pair the sandwiches with classic tomato soup, a simple salad, or sweet tea for the full Southern experience, making it a versatile meal option for different occasions.
• Make-ahead Option: The pimento cheese can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week, allowing for quick and easy sandwich assembly throughout the week.
• Kid-approved: Even picky eaters will love these sandwiches, as they offer a familiar yet elevated twist on the traditional grilled cheese that will have kids asking for more.
• Effortless Weekend Lunch: These sandwiches are perfect for lazy weekends when you want a special meal without putting in a lot of effort, making them a go-to option for a relaxing and delicious lunch.

Ingredients for Delicious Pimento Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

For the Pimento Cheese Spread

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup diced pimento peppers, drained
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• ½ tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 4 tablespoons cream cheese, room temperature
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Sandwiches

• ¾ teaspoon Italian herb seasoning
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 8 slices thick Texas toast or rustic bread
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

How to Make Delicious Pimento Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Make the pimento cheese

Combine shredded cheddar, diced pimentos, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, chopped chives, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix until creamy and well combined.

Step 2: Chill the spread

Chill the pimento cheese mixture covered for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to blend and facilitate spreading.

Step 3: Prepare the herb butter

Combine softened butter with Italian seasoning and salt in a small bowl until well mixed to create a seasoned butter for the sandwich.

Step 4: Assemble the sandwiches

Spread herb butter mixture on one side of each bread slice. Place 4 slices butter-side down. Spread about ⅓ cup of pimento cheese on the unbuttered side. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.

Step 5: Grill to perfection

Preheat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook sandwiches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy on one side. Carefully flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve immediately

Allow the pimento cheese to cool for a minute, then slice diagonally and serve while warm and gooey inside.

Storage Tips

Once the pimento grilled cheese sandwiches are made, any leftover pimento cheese mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors actually develop more after a day or two, so it’s great for enjoying on crackers or for making more grilled cheese sandwiches later in the week.

When storing the finished pimento grilled cheese sandwiches, it’s best to wrap them individually in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. While these sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, they can be stored in the refrigerator for a day or two. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to ensure the cheese melts evenly without burning the bread. This dish is a versatile and delicious treat that can be enjoyed as a comforting meal or snack throughout the week.

Ingredient Substitutions

For potential ingredient substitutions in this Pimento Grilled Cheese recipe, you can experiment with different types of cheeses if you prefer a milder or different flavor profile. Instead of sharp cheddar, you could try using a combination of Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gouda for a unique twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich.

If you don’t have pimento peppers on hand, you can substitute them with roasted red bell peppers or even sun-dried tomatoes for a similar sweet and slightly tangy flavor. This substitution can still provide a delicious element to the creamy cheese mixture without compromising the overall taste of the sandwich.

Additionally, if you’re looking to make the sandwich a bit lighter, you can swap out some of the mayonnaise and cream cheese with Greek yogurt or sour cream. This adjustment can help reduce the overall fat content while still maintaining the creamy texture and tanginess in the pimento cheese filling. Experimenting with these substitutions can add variety to your grilled cheese sandwiches while catering to your personal preferences and dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on the classic pimento grilled cheese, try serving them as bite-sized grilled cheese sliders for parties or gatherings. Simply cut the sandwiches into smaller squares or triangles after grilling and secure them with toothpicks for easy serving. You can also offer a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard on the side for added flavor.

Another creative serving suggestion is to turn the pimento grilled cheese into a gourmet brunch dish by topping each sandwich with a sunny-side-up egg. The rich, runny yolk adds a luxurious touch to the already indulgent sandwich, making it a perfect dish for a weekend brunch spread. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve alongside a refreshing mimosa or a spicy Bloody Mary for a complete and satisfying meal.

FAQs for Delicious Pimento Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Can I use store-bought pimento cheese instead of making my own for this recipe?

While store-bought pimento cheese can be used in a pinch, the homemade version with freshly shredded sharp cheddar, diced pimento peppers, cream cheese, and other ingredients really elevates the flavor of this grilled cheese. It’s worth the extra effort to make it from scratch.

Can I make the pimento cheese mixture in advance and store it for later use?

Yes, the pimento cheese mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for about a week. In fact, the flavors meld together even better after a day or two. This makes it convenient to have the mixture ready to use for quick grilled cheese sandwiches throughout the week.

What are some variations I can try with this pimento grilled cheese recipe?

You can customize this grilled cheese by adding thin tomato slices, crispy bacon, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the pimento cheese mixture for extra flavor. Additionally, experimenting with different breads like sourdough can provide unique taste profiles to suit your preferences.

How can I prevent burning the bread and ensure the cheese melts evenly when making these grilled cheese sandwiches?

To prevent burning the bread and ensure that the cheese melts evenly, make sure to cook the sandwiches over medium heat and keep a close eye on them while grilling. Using softened butter on the bread slices and allowing them to cook until golden brown on each side will result in perfectly grilled and gooey sandwiches.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the versatility and deliciousness of Pimento Grilled Cheese make it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilled cheese game. Whether you enjoy it with a side of tomato soup, a crisp salad, or a refreshing glass of sweet tea, this sandwich is sure to bring comfort and satisfaction to your table.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your pimento cheese mixture by adding your favorite ingredients like bacon, jalapeños, or even a hint of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless, and each variation adds a unique twist to this classic dish. So why not whip up a batch of this flavorful pimento cheese, grill it between two slices of your favorite bread, and treat yourself to the indulgent goodness of a homemade Pimento Grilled Cheese today?

Delicious Pimento Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Creamy pimento cheese grilled between slices of buttery Texas toast – a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time70 Minutes

Total Time80 Minutes

CuisineSouthern

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (4 sandwiches)

Ingredients

For the Pimento Cheese Spread

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup diced pimento peppers, drained
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• ½ tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 4 tablespoons cream cheese, room temperature
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Sandwiches

• ¾ teaspoon Italian herb seasoning
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 8 slices thick Texas toast or rustic bread
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

1. Make the pimento cheese: Combine shredded cheddar, diced pimentos, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, chopped chives, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix until creamy and well combined.
2. Chill the spread: Chill the pimento cheese mixture covered for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to blend and facilitate spreading.
3. Prepare the herb butter: Combine softened butter with Italian seasoning and salt in a small bowl until well mixed to create a seasoned butter for the sandwich.
4. Assemble the sandwiches: Spread herb butter mixture on one side of each bread slice. Place 4 slices butter-side down. Spread about ⅓ cup of pimento cheese on the unbuttered side. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
5. Grill to perfection: Preheat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook sandwiches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy on one side. Carefully flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve immediately: Allow the pimento cheese to cool for a minute, then slice diagonally and serve while warm and gooey inside.