Appetizers
Beaufort Grocery's pimento cheese brings the soul of the South to every bite with its perfect balance of sharp cheddar, tangy mayo, and roasted bell pepper heat. This recipe captures the essence of Beaufort Grocery's iconic spread, where smoky cheddar meets sweet, caramelized bell peppers for a flavor that's both bold and comforting. The secret lies in slow-roasting the peppers until they're tender and slightly charred, intensifying their natural sweetness and deepening their flavor profile.
What sets this recipe apart is the methodical approach to achieving that signature Beaufort Grocery texture—creamy yet sturdy enough to hold its shape on sandwiches or burgers. Sharp cheddar forms the foundation, while mayonnaise provides the perfect binding agent.
The roasted bell peppers add a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the sharpness of the cheese, creating a harmonious blend that's impossible to resist.
Once mixed, this pimento cheese becomes a versatile staple for any meal. Spread it thick on toasted bread for a classic Southern sandwich, slather it onto burgers for an extra layer of flavor, or serve it as a dip with crispy crackers.
The recipe yields enough to make ahead, so you can enjoy the convenience of having this crowd-pleasing spread ready whenever you need it.
The best part? This recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. With proper storage, it stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it perfect for meal prep or hosting.
Let's get started on creating this iconic Southern favorite that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for beaufort grocery pimento cheese
Sharp cheddar, roasted peppers, and tangy mayo come together for Beaufort Grocery's iconic spread.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp White Cheddar Cheese 🧀 | 1 ½ cups | Freshly grated from block |
| Mayonnaise 🥫 | ½ cup | High-quality, tangy brand |
| Red Bell Peppers 🍅 | 2 whole | Roasted until charred |
| Yellow Onion 🧅 | 1 whole | Roasted with peppers |
| Garlic Cloves 🧄 | 2 cloves | Roasted with peppers |
| Extra-Virgin Olive Oil 🫒 | 1 tbsp | For roasting peppers |
| Salt 🧂 | ½ tsp | Kosher or sea salt |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | ¼ tsp | Freshly ground |
| Smoked Paprika 🌶️ | ½ tsp | For depth of flavor |
| Hot Sauce 🔥 | 1 tsp | Optional, for heat |
| Fresh Cilantro 🌿 | ¼ cup | Chopped, for garnish |
The cheese is everything here—sharp white cheddar from a block (none of that pre-shredded stuff) makes all the difference. I grab mine at Whole Foods or my local Southern grocery—look for the kind with good marbling and a sharp bite. The roasted peppers? Char them good—that smoky flavor is what gives this spread its signature depth. Roast them whole with olive oil, salt, and garlic until blackened in spots, then peel off the skin. Trader Joe's has great bell peppers if you're short on time, but local farmers markets always win for flavor.
No roasted peppers? Canned roasted red peppers work in a pinch (just drain them well), but they lack that smoky char. Short on mayo? Greek yogurt adds tang and cuts the richness—just use half the amount. Want more heat? Hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne does the trick. The smoked paprika is non-negotiable though—it's what gives that signature Beaufort Grocery smokiness. Penzeys has great bulk spices if you want to stock up. And if you're feeling fancy, add a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang.
This keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to a week if stored in an airtight container. I always make a double batch—one for sandwiches, one for crackers. The flavors meld even better after sitting overnight, so plan ahead. Portion into small jars if you're meal prepping—it's perfect on toast, burgers, or even as a dip for veggies. Freezes for up to 3 months if you want to make it ahead for holidays.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- No-Fuss Assembly: The Beaufort Grocery version couldn’t be simpler—just a food processor, a handful of ingredients, and 10 minutes of your time. I swear, I’ve made this while waiting for the oven to preheat or during a quick lunch break.
- Creamy with Bite: That sharp white cheddar melts into something rich and velvety, while the roasted bell peppers add just the right amount of sweet, smoky kick. Honestly, the garlic and onion blend makes it taste like a hug in your mouth.
- Game for Any Meal: Spread it on toast for breakfast, slather it on sandwiches for lunch, or serve it with crackers at a party. Between us, it’s my go-to for potlucks because it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Stays Fresh for Days: Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to a week—no weird texture changes, just pure flavor waiting to be used. I’ll be real: I’ve had this last me through three lunches without a single complaint.
Step-by-step instructions for Beaufort Grocery pimento cheese
Here's how to create that perfect smoky-sweet balance Beaufort Grocery fans love.
Roast the Vegetables for Maximum Flavor
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Cut the 2 whole red bell peppers and 1 whole yellow onion into 1-inch chunks, removing the stems and seeds. Peel the 2 cloves garlic and leave them whole.
Drizzle everything with the 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with 0.5 teaspoon salt and 0.25 teaspoon black pepper. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they don't overlap.
Roast for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are deeply charred in spots with soft, blistered skin. You'll know they're ready when they smell intensely sweet and smoky. Let them cool slightly before handling - they'll be hot! This roasting step develops the caramelized, smoky depth that makes this pimento cheese truly special.
Blend the Roasted Vegetables Until Smooth
Once the vegetables have cooled enough to handle, transfer them to a food processor or high-powered blender. Add the 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika and 1 teaspoon hot sauce (if using) to the processor with the vegetables.
Blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. You should end up with about 1 cup of vibrant, purplish-red roasted pepper mixture. The texture should be completely free of any chunks - this ensures your pimento cheese will have that signature silky, spreadable consistency.
Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed. I usually find the roasted peppers need a bit more salt at this stage, so I might add another pinch of salt or hot sauce to taste. This is your flavor foundation, so don't be shy about tasting and adjusting.
Mix the Cheese and Mayonnaise for Perfect Texture
In a large bowl, combine the 1.5 cups freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese with the 0.5 cup mayonnaise. Using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, mix thoroughly until completely combined. The cheese should be fully incorporated into the mayo, creating a smooth, creamy base.
This is where the magic happens - the sharpness of the cheddar cuts through the richness of the mayo, creating the perfect balance. Don't rush this step. Mix for at least 2 minutes to ensure everything is evenly distributed and the cheese is fully melted into the mayo.
Combine Everything for the Ultimate Spread
Add the roasted pepper mixture to the cheese bowl and stir to combine. The mixture will look vibrant and colorful - this is your visual cue that everything is coming together. Add the 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro and mix one final time.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The perfect Beaufort-style pimento cheese should have a balance of sharp cheddar, sweet roasted peppers, and just a hint of smokiness from the paprika. If it needs more tang, add a bit more mayo. If it needs more heat, add another dash of hot sauce.
Transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container. For best results, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly. Serve with crackers, bread, or as a sandwich spread - every bite should be creamy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced!
Pro Tips For Making Beaufort Grocery Pimento Cheese
- Grate the Cheese Cold: Pull the sharp white cheddar straight from the fridge—room temperature cheese melts unevenly and can turn greasy. I used to rush this, and the mix would separate like a sad salad dressing. Cold cheese blends smoother and stays creamy longer.
- Roast the Peppers First: Char the red bell peppers under the broiler for 8-10 minutes until blackened in spots. The smoky depth cuts through the richness of the mayo and cheddar better than raw peppers ever could. Skip this, and you’re missing the soul of the dish.
- Pulse the Onion Fine: Dice the yellow onion small—think food processor pulses, not rough chopping. Big chunks make the texture uneven, and you’ll taste them long after the cheese flavor should’ve taken over. Trust me, nobody wants onion surprises in their sandwich.
- Mix in Stages: Start with half the mayo, then add cheese gradually while stirring. Dumping everything in at once guarantees a clumpy mess. If it looks too thick, a splash of warm water (yes, really) thins it out without diluting the flavor—just don’t overdo it.
Serving suggestions for this beaufort grocery pimento cheese
Classic Sandwich Spread
This pimento cheese shines as the star of a Southern-style sandwich. Spread a thick layer on toasted sourdough or Texas toast, then add slices of cold-smoked turkey or pulled pork.
Top with crisp arugula and a drizzle of honey mustard for that perfect balance of tangy, smoky, and sweet. 🥪
For a Beaufort Grocery-inspired classic, try it on a grilled cheese sandwich with sharp cheddar on the outside—double the flavor! I love adding a sprinkle of crispy fried onions on top before serving for extra crunch and texture that elevates every bite.
Burger Topping
Elevate your next burger by slathering this pimento cheese on toasted brioche buns or spreading it directly on the beef patty before grilling. The smoky-sweet flavors complement blue cheese crumbles or caramelized onions beautifully.
For a Beaufort Grocery twist, add a layer of crispy bacon and a drizzle of sriracha mayo on top. 🍔
Cracker Dip
Serve this pimento cheese as a dip with water crackers, pretzel crisps, or homemade biscuit rounds for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a pop of color and flavor.
It’s perfect for game day or holiday gatherings—just add a bowl of pickles on the side for contrast. 🥂
Breakfast Toast
Start your day with a Southern-inspired breakfast by spreading this pimento cheese on toasted whole-grain bread and topping it with a fried egg and crispy bacon. The sharp cheddar and roasted peppers add a savory kick that pairs perfectly with the richness of the egg yolk.
For extra flair, add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or hot sauce on top. 🍳
Veggie Dip
Use this as a vibrant dip for crudités like carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper strips. The creamy texture and bold flavors make it a great alternative to ranch or hummus.
Serve it chilled in a bowl with a side of toasted pita chips for a quick and satisfying snack. 🥕
Grilled Cheese Twist
For a gourmet upgrade, layer this pimento cheese between sourdough slices with mozzarella and provolone, then grill until golden and gooey. The combination of sharp cheddar and roasted peppers creates a melty, flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Add a side of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort meal. 🍽️
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?
Pre-shredded cheese won't work here—it contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting and create a grainy texture. Always use freshly grated sharp white cheddar from a block for that signature Beaufort Grocery creaminess. If you're short on time, try grating your own using a box grater or food processor.
What's the best way to roast the bell peppers for maximum flavor?
Roast them whole on a sheet pan at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until deeply charred in spots. The key is getting that smoky, caramelized flavor—look for blackened patches and a sweet, smoky aroma. Let them cool completely before blending to prevent steam from making your mixture watery.
How long will this pimento cheese keep in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after sitting overnight as everything melds together. For longer storage, freeze in small portions for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Can I make this recipe without mayo?
Yes! For a lighter version, replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt (about ¼ cup) for extra tang. If you want to eliminate mayo entirely, try using cream cheese mixed with a bit of milk to achieve a similar creamy texture. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
What's the secret to getting that perfect Beaufort Grocery texture?
The secret lies in blending the roasted peppers completely smooth and mixing the cheese with mayo thoroughly for 2 minutes until fully emulsified. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the sides of the bowl constantly—this creates that signature silky, spreadable consistency that holds its shape perfectly on bread or crackers.