Dip it, spread it, smear it. However you serve it up, Dairy Free Southern Pimento Cheese Spread is the ultimate crowd pleaser with its savory flavors and decadent texture.
I can still remember the first time I had pimento cheese. The combination of the creamy base with the sharp and savory bite of cheese had me going back for more. It's great on its own while being the ultimate topper for burgers, like my Gluten and Dairy Free Pimento Cheese Burgers with Bacon Jam.
Savory Goodness
Just because you're Dairy Free it doesn't mean you can't have pimento cheese. Dairy Free Southern Pimento Cheese Spread is all about finding the right combination of ingredients that deliver that creamy texture and pure savory flavor.
Whether you're Dairy Free or not, all good pimento cheese begins with the right combination for that luscious base. For this recipe we're using a combination of Dairy Free cream cheese and mayonnaise. This will give you the tang while also allowing you to easily spread the pimento cheese onto your favorite crackers or Gluten Free bread.
The next component of great southern style pimento cheese is the savory components, or the little accents of flavor. Besides the pimentos themselves, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder give an aromatic kick. The true star though is the addition of Pork Panko.
Bacon's Heir Pork Panko is made with only 2 ingredients, pork skin and salt. I love that it is an even one to one swap for traditional breadcrumbs. It is Gluten Free and carb free. In addition, it can handle higher temperatures such as the grill making it an ideal topping. It's not just for breading though. It can also add a salty and savory bite to food, such as this pimento cheese.
How to Make Southern Pimento Cheese Spread
There's nothing like having a dish that requires no actually cooking. Armed with bowl and a spoon, this dish comes together effortlessly.
Time needed: 1 hour.
- Pregame
Make sure your pimentos are well drained and that your Dairy Free cream cheese is at room temperature.
- Mix it Up
Add all of your ingredients to a bowl. Mix until everything is fully combined.
- Just Chill
For the best flavor and texture allow the pimento cheese to refrigerate for at least an hour. This will allow the pork panko to soften and all of the flavors to develop.
- Serve it Up
Serve with your favorite Gluten Free crackers, crudites, or Gluten Free bread. You can also use this as a burger topping.
Top Tip
Whether you are using Dairy Free cream cheese or regular cream cheese, you always want to let it sit out at room temperature so it can soften when it comes to making pimento cheese. This will allow you to easily mix everything together.
While it can be served immediately, for the best flavor and texture always allow it to chill for at least an hour. That makes this a great make ahead dish!
Dairy Free Souther Pimento Cheese Spread
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Pork Panko
- 8 oz Dairy Free cream cheese, room temperature
- 8 oz Dairy Free cheddar, shredded
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ⅛ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- 4 oz jarred pimentos, drained
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Add all of your ingredients to a bowl. Mix to thoroughly combine.
- For best flavor and texture allow the pimento cheese to refrigerate for at least an hour.
- Serve with your favorite dippers.
- Enjoy!
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