Ingredients:

  • 8 oz extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, hand-grated
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise
  • 4 oz jarred pimentos, drained and finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Grate the cold cheddar cheese using the large holes of a box grater. Finely mince the drained pimentos and the fresh jalapeño. Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Stir with a spatula until the mixture is completely smooth and velvety.
  3. Fold in the grated cheddar, minced pimentos, and minced jalapeños. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Stir gently but thoroughly until the cheese is evenly coated and the spread reaches a uniform sunset-orange color.