Pimento Cheese

Pimento cheese has long been a staple in southern households. The secret is out. In recent years it's popularity has spread nationwide gracing menus from coast to coast. In it's most simple preparation, it is spread on crackers, or between two slices of bread. For less guilt,  you can serve it with fresh celery and carrot crudites. Feeling fancy? Use it as a relish on your favorite burger or panini or as a base for oven-baked macaroni and cheese, or your favorite deviled egg recipe. 
Pimento Cheese  makes 3 cups 

Ingredients 

4 oz cream cheese, room temperature

1/2 cup mayonnaise 

1 cup sharp yellow cheddar cheese

1 cup  extra sharp white cheddar cheese 

4 Tbsp jarred pimento pepper, chopped fine

Pinch of cayenne pepper 

Pinch of garlic powder 

cracked pepper, to taste

kosher salt, to taste 

Method

Mix all ingredients together. I like to whip the cream cheese a bit first to lighten it up and incorporate a bit of air into it. Season. Taste. Season. Store in fridge up to a week. Enjoy.