The Pimento Cheese Sandwich is a classic Southern favorite that combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying sandwich. This beloved sandwich features a creamy and tangy pimento cheese spread, made with a combination of shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, and a touch of spices. The spread is then generously slathered onto slices of bread, typically white or wheat bread, creating a rich and creamy filling. The combination of the smooth pimento cheese, the soft bread, and the slight heat from the pimentos creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The Pimento Cheese Sandwich is often enjoyed as a quick and easy lunch option, perfect for picnics, tea parties, or a simple homemade meal. Its popularity and versatility have made it a staple in Southern cuisine and a cherished comfort food across the United States. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a bowl of soup or a side salad, the Pimento Cheese Sandwich is a satisfying and nostalgic treat that never fails to please.
Ingredients for Pimento Cheese Sandwich
Pimento Cheese:
⦁ – 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
⦁ – 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
⦁ – 8 ounces sharp Cheddar, shredded
⦁ – 8 ounces aged Gouda, shredded
⦁ – 1 roasted red pepper, diced (about 1/2 cup)
⦁ – Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Sandwiches:
⦁ – 8 slices cracked wheat bread
⦁ – 3 tablespoons mayonnaise or softened unsalted butter
Steps to make Pimento Cheese Sandwich
Step 1
Prepare the pimento cheese by combining room temperature cream cheese and mayonnaise in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until smooth. Add shredded sharp Cheddar and aged Gouda, and mix on low until well combined. Stir in diced roasted red pepper by hand. Taste and season with salt and pepper, emphasizing the use of pepper.
Step 2
Assemble the sandwiches by heating a cast-iron skillet over low heat. Take a heaping 1/2 cup of the pimento cheese and place it between two slices of cracked wheat bread. Avoid spreading the mixture all the way to the crust to prevent it from becoming too soft during cooking. Repeat this step with the remaining bread and cheese.
Step 3
Spread mayonnaise or softened unsalted butter on one side of each sandwich. Place the sandwiches, mayonnaise-side down, in the heated skillet. Spread mayonnaise on the top pieces of bread as well. Cook until the sandwiches are golden brown and the cheese has started to melt, approximately 5 minutes. Flip the sandwiches and cook the other side until golden, around 3 minutes.
Step 4
Once cooked, slice the pimento cheese sandwiches into halves or quarters and serve immediately. The result is a delicious combination of creamy pimento cheese and crispy, toasted bread. Enjoy the sandwiches while they are still warm for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
⦁ – Calories: 450 Cal
⦁ – Carbohydrates: 25g
⦁ – Protein: 16g
⦁ – Fat: 33g
⦁ – Saturated Fat: 19g
⦁ – Trans Fat: 1g
⦁ – Cholesterol: 100mg
⦁ – Sodium: 750mg
⦁ – Potassium: 200mg
⦁ – Fiber: 2g
⦁ – Sugar: 3g
⦁ – Vitamin A: 800IU
⦁ – Vitamin C: 10mg
⦁ – Calcium: 400mg
⦁ – Iron: 1.5mg
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Steps to avoid while preparing Pimento Cheese Sandwich
1. Avoid using cream cheese or mayonnaise that is not at room temperature. Room temperature ingredients are essential for achieving a smooth and well-incorporated pimento cheese filling.
2. Do not overmix the cream cheese and mayonnaise mixture. Mix on medium speed just until smooth, as overmixing can lead to a runny consistency.
3. Be cautious not to spread the pimento cheese mixture all the way to the crust when assembling the sandwiches. This can cause the crust to become too soft during cooking, resulting in a less desirable texture.
4. Ensure that the cast-iron skillet is heated over low heat. Cooking the sandwiches on high heat can lead to uneven browning or burning.
5. Avoid pressing down on the sandwiches while they are cooking in the skillet. This can cause the cheese filling to squeeze out and result in a messy sandwich.
6. Do not overcook the sandwiches. Cooking for too long can result in a dry and overly crispy texture. Aim for a golden brown color and just enough melting of the cheese.
FAQ
1. Q: What is a Pimento Cheese Sandwich?
A: A Pimento Cheese Sandwich is a classic Southern sandwich made with a spread of pimento cheese between two slices of bread. Pimento cheese is a mixture of cheese, mayonnaise, and pimento peppers.
2. Q: How do I make Pimento Cheese for the sandwich?
A: To make Pimento Cheese, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded Cheddar, shredded Gouda, diced roasted red pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Q: What type of bread is best for a Pimento Cheese Sandwich?
A: The choice of bread for a Pimento Cheese Sandwich is flexible. Traditional options include white bread, wheat bread, or even sourdough. Choose a bread that complements the flavors of the pimento cheese.
4. Q: Can I use store-bought pimento cheese for the sandwich?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought pimento cheese for convenience. Look for pre-made pimento cheese in the deli or cheese section of your grocery store.
5. Q: Can I customize my Pimento Cheese Sandwich with additional ingredients?
A: Absolutely! You can customize your Pimento Cheese Sandwich by adding ingredients like crispy bacon, sliced tomatoes, pickles, or lettuce to enhance the flavors and textures.
6. Q: Can I make a vegan version of Pimento Cheese Sandwich?
A: Yes, you can make a vegan version of Pimento Cheese Sandwich by using plant-based cheese alternatives, vegan mayonnaise, and roasted red peppers. Look for vegan cheese options that melt well.
7. Q: How do I store leftover Pimento Cheese Sandwich?
A: If you have leftover Pimento Cheese Sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it. Consume within a day or two for the best taste and texture.
8. Q: Can I grill a Pimento Cheese Sandwich?
A: Yes, you can grill a Pimento Cheese Sandwich to make it warm and toasty. Spread butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread slices and cook the sandwich on a griddle or in a skillet until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
9. Q: Is Pimento Cheese Sandwich a healthy choice?
A: Pimento Cheese Sandwiches can be enjoyed as an indulgent treat but may not be considered a health-focused option due to the higher fat content from the cheese and mayonnaise. However, you can opt for lighter versions by using reduced-fat cheese or mayo alternatives and pairing it with whole grain bread and additional veggies.
10. Q: Can I make Pimento Cheese Sandwich ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make Pimento Cheese Sandwiches ahead of time. Assemble the sandwiches, wrap them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just remember to add fresh ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes just before serving to maintain their freshness.