We love the rich and creamy flavor of Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese. It’s a staple in many Southern kitchens thanks to its blend of cheddar cheese pimentos and a secret sauce we can’t resist. This dish stands out on any table from casual cookouts to fancy brunches.
We trace its roots to the coastal town of Pawleys Island where locals perfected this Southern gem over generations. Now it’s become a go-to for last-minute appetizers or a tangy topping for burgers. We can’t wait to share our twist on this mouthwatering recipe.
Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese At A Glance
We combine freshly shredded cheddar with diced pimentos for a smooth texture and a bold tang. We stir everything together with a quick sauce that adds bright flavor. Our finished spread turns out creamy with a gentle bite of spice and a light crunch of peppers.
We let the mixture chill for a short while. This step helps all the flavors blend into a uniform taste. We enjoy our Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese as a dip or spooned on toast for an easy snack. It also works great in burgers or sandwiches.
Below is a quick overview of our steps:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Grate cheddar cheese |
| 2 | Drain and dice pimentos |
| 3 | Blend sauce with seasonings |
| 4 | Stir cheese, pimentos, and sauce |
| 5 | Chill before serving |
We adjust seasonings for a sharper or milder taste. We can add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce if we want extra heat. We keep the rest of our recipe simple so the Southern-inspired flavors shine on every bite.
Tools And Equipment
We rely on a few trusty kitchen items to assemble our Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese. They help us maintain a smooth texture for this creamy southern-inspired spread.
Key Equipment
- A box grater to shred cheddar cheese
- A sharp chef’s knife for dicing pimentos
- A large mixing bowl for blending ingredients
- A rubber spatula for folding the mixture
- A measuring spoon set to ensure precise seasoning
Optional Tools
- An electric hand mixer to streamline blending of the secret sauce
- A food processor if we prepare bigger batches
- A silicone whisk for quick emulsifying of the creamy base
Ingredients
We keep our Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese ingredients straightforward for a bright and creamy taste. We use simple items to deliver the best texture and flavor.
Cheese Base
- 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos drained
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Flavor Enhancers
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 pinch salt and black pepper
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 2 cups | Freshly grated |
| Diced pimentos (drained) | 4 oz jar | Drained well |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Full-fat recommended |
| Sour cream | 2 tablespoons | Adds extra creaminess |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | Subtle depth of flavor |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon | Gentle savory touch |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | ¼ teaspoon | Adjust for spice level |
| Salt and black pepper | Pinch each | Balances the richness |
Directions
Here is how we prepare our Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese. We will follow simple steps to achieve a smooth and creamy spread.
Prep Steps
We grate 2 cups of cheddar cheese. This keeps the flavor bright and ensures a silky consistency. We dice a 4 oz jar of drained pimentos into small pieces. We set them aside in a small bowl.
Combining Ingredients
We blend ½ cup of mayonnaise with 2 tablespoons of sour cream in a large mixing bowl. We add a sprinkle of onion powder, a dash of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. We then fold in the shredded cheddar and diced pimentos. We stir gently until everything is fully combined.
| Step | Action | Approximate Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grate Cheese | 5 minutes |
| 2 | Dice Pimentos | 2 minutes |
| 3 | Blend Mayonnaise and Sour Cream | 2 minutes |
| 4 | Fold in Cheese and Pimentos | 1 minute |
| 5 | Chill | 30 minutes |
Adjusting Consistency
We taste and add cayenne pepper if we want a little extra heat. If our mixture seems too thick we add a spoonful of mayonnaise. If it seems too thin we stir in extra shredded cheese. We cover our bowl and chill the Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving And Storage
We enjoy sharing fresh ways to serve Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese at its prime. Let us explore our top serving choices and practical tips for handling leftovers.
Serving Ideas
- Spread on crackers or toasted bread for an easy appetizer
- Add a spoonful to a grilled burger or a hotdog for a creamy twist
- Stir into warm grits or mashed potatoes for extra richness
- Serve alongside fresh veggies like celery and carrot sticks for a crisp contrast
Storage Tips
We place our prepared Palmetto Cheese in an airtight container. We keep the container in the fridge at 40°F or below. We stir the mixture before each use to maintain creaminess. For extended storage we freeze any extra spread if needed.
| Storage Method | Maximum Duration |
|---|---|
| Fridge at or below 40°F | 4 to 5 days |
| Freezer in a sealed container | Up to 2 months |
Conclusion
We love how this recipe brings a true taste of Pawleys Island right into our kitchen. It’s simple to prepare but delivers a rich flavor that makes any gathering feel special. We appreciate the versatility—it’s ready to pair with crackers for a last-minute snack or amp up a burger when we’re craving extra flair. Preparing this creamy spread is an enjoyable way to celebrate Southern cooking without fuss or complications. We hope it inspires you to get creative and share that signature Southern warmth at every meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese?
Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese is a Southern-inspired spread traditionally made with freshly shredded cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, mayonnaise, and a few seasonings. Originating in Pawleys Island, it’s known for its rich, creamy texture and tangy flavor that makes for a versatile addition to various dishes.
Which ingredients are essential for this recipe?
You’ll need 2 cups of freshly shredded cheddar, a 4 oz jar of drained diced pimentos, ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of sour cream, plus onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and an optional dash of cayenne. These basic items give Palmetto Cheese its hallmark creaminess and bright flavor.
How do I make Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese?
First, grate the cheddar and dice the pimentos. Combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and seasonings in a bowl, then fold in the cheese and pimentos. Adjust spices, and chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes. That’s it—simple, quick, and irresistibly tasty.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes. For more heat, add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. If you want a milder flavor, reduce or skip spicy ingredients and rely on the classic taste of cheddar and pimentos. Experiment to find the perfect balance for your palate.
How do I store leftover Palmetto Cheese?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge at or below 40°F. It should stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days. If you need longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. Before serving, stir thoroughly to refresh the creamy consistency.
What are some serving ideas?
Spread it on crackers, toast, or warm biscuits. Use it as a zesty topping for burgers or hotdogs. Stir it into mashed potatoes for extra creaminess or pair it with fresh veggies for a cool, crisp contrast. It’s a versatile addition to any meal!