Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe
The Masters pimento cheese recipe is a beloved Southern tradition, deeply tied to Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament. This iconic sandwich has remained at $1.50 for decades, symbolizing both culinary tradition and Southern hospitality. With a blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese, this spread is the heart of a sandwich that brings together generations of golf fans.
Ingredients
- 2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- Monterey Jack cheese for additional depth approximately 4 ounces
- ½ cup Duke's mayonnaise
- 4 ounces diced pimentos well-drained
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: cayenne pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soften cream cheese at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Grate 16 oz of yellow sharp cheddar cheese finely.
- Drain 8 oz of pimentos completely.
- Measure seasonings precisely: ½ teaspoon granulated garlic, ½ teaspoon onion powder.
- (Optional) Add cayenne pepper to taste.
- Use a stand mixer to blend softened cream cheese with 1 cup of mayonnaise until smooth.
- Slowly mix in the grated cheeses and drained pimentos.
- Be gentle to keep it creamy.
- Chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Notes
- For the authentic Masters experience, use soft white bread and cut sandwiches diagonally into triangles.
- You can serve pimento cheese as a dip with celery, carrots, or crackers, or even as a burger topping.
- Refrigerate the pimento cheese in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing is possible, but it may affect the texture. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator.
- Let the pimento cheese chill for several hours before serving to enhance the flavor