Derby-Inspired Pimento Cheese Spread with Smoked Paprika

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-05 · Updated 2026-06-05

A creamy and tangy Southern-style pimento cheese spread infused with smoky paprika, perfect for sandwiches or crackers during Derby celebrations. This American-inspired snack recipe, ready in about 10 minutes, blends sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, cream cheese, softened, mayonnaise into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 8, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Blenders that make this properly smooth → Best Blenders for 2026: Top Picks + Smoothie Season Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 4 oz softened cream cheese. Use a fork or mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Step 2: Add 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup drained diced pimentos, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Step 3: Chill the spread in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled with crackers, celery sticks, or as a sandwich filling.