The Masters Golf Tournament is known for its iconic pimento cheese sandwiches, and while the exact recipe used by the tournament's concession stands is a closely guarded secret, traditional pimento cheese typically includes grated cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, and sometimes additional ingredients like cream cheese, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, or hot sauce for added flavor.
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The Masters Southern Pimento Cheese Sandwich is a Southern delicacy, featuring their secret ingredients nestled between slices of soft white bread. Originating in the Southern United States, particularly in Augusta, Georgia, where the Masters Tournament takes place, this sandwich has become a cherished tradition.
If you like this easy recipe, you may also love our other Southern dishes. Try this popular Southern White Sausage Gravy or our Old Fashioned Skillet Cornbread.
Why We Love This Recipe
- It’s quick: Whip up a batch of homemade pimento cheese spread in minutes for a delicious snack or meal.
- It’s addictive: Once you take a bite of this sandwich, you'll find it hard to resist reaching for another.
- It’s easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even beginner cooks can make this southern staple.
- It’s crowd-pleasing: On Masters Sunday, whip up a batch of these Southern Pimento Cheese Sandwiches to enjoy while guests watch the tournament unfold.
Ingredients
- Cheese: The star ingredient. Use your favorite cheddar cheese, or combine cheddar and spicy cheese to give your sandwich a kick!
- Cream Cheese: Adds thickness to the sandwich spread.
- Pimento Peppers: Pimento peppers, also known as cherry peppers or pimientos, are sweet, mild red peppers They are often found in grocery stores either whole or diced, in the condiment or canned goods aisle.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory profile of the spread.
- Onion Powder: Provides aromatic notes to the spread.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess while keeping it light.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions and Variations
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: For a milder flavor, substitute mild cheddar cheese for sharp cheddar.
- Mayonnaise: Use plain Greek yogurt for added protein.
- Cream Cheese: Reduce the amount of cream cheese for a softer spread.
- Pimento Peppers: You can substitute red bell peppers in this sandwich filling for a slightly different flavor and crunchy texture.
- Flavor: Experiment with different types of cheese such as white cheddar, colby, or gouda cheese. Add crispy bacon and fresh tomato to your sandwich to get a taste of the deep south!
How To Make The Masters Southern Pimento Cheese Sandwich Recipe + Video
STEP ONE: Prepare the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine grated cheeses, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimento, granulated garlic, and onion powder.
STEP TWO: Blend Until Smooth
Using a spatula, blend the ingredients until smooth and well incorporated, adjusting seasoning to taste.
STEP THREE: Chill for Flavor
Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to combine.
STEP FOUR: Serve and Enjoy
Spread the creamy pimento cheese onto slices of soft white sandwich bread, or serve on a platter garnished with chives for dipping. Add celery sticks, crackers, or pita chips on the side and enjoy this Southern classic!
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Allow the spread to chill for 30 minutes to combine flavors. When ready to serve, let it come to room temperature for the best texture.
✔️ DO Let the pimento spread come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
How Should I Store and Reheat this Recipe?
Store the pimento cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Did you know?
The tradition of serving sandwiches at the Masters dates back to the tournament's early years in the 1930s. These sandwiches have since become an iconic part of the Master's experience.
Since these sandwiches were originally introduced as a convenient and affordable option for hungry spectators, they still range in price from $1.50 to $3.00 each today.
Their popular favorites include the renowned pimento cheese, egg salad, and Masters Club.
Recipe FAQs
While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It's best enjoyed fresh.
While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated cheese will yield the best results in terms of flavor and texture.
The sandwich is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.
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📖 Recipe
The Masters Southern Pimento Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Equipment
- Food processor or cheese grater
- Rubber spatula
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 16 oz grated Sharp Cheddar cheese Or a combination of Sharp Cheddar and Habanero cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 12 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 8 oz diced pimento drained
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 loaf soft white sandwich bread
Optional:
- chives for garnish
- celery sticks or crackers for serving
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the grated cheeses, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimento, granulated garlic, and onion powder.
- Using a spatula, blend the ingredients until smooth and well incorporated, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to combine.
- Spread the creamy pimento cheese onto slices of soft white sandwich bread, or serve on a platter garnished with chives for dipping. Add celery sticks or crackers on the side and enjoy this Southern classic!
Video
Notes
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: For a milder flavor, substitute mild cheddar cheese for sharp cheddar.
- Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt for added protein.
- Cream Cheese:Reduce the amount of cream cheese for a softer spread.
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