Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese softened to room temperature

• 1 ½ cups (180 g) extra sharp cheddar cheese shredded

• ¼ cup (60 g) mayonnaise

• ½ cup (4 ounces) jarred pimento finely diced (approximately 4 ounces drained weight)

• ¼ teaspoon onion powder

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper optional, to taste

Directions

1. In a large bowl, add the cream cheese and mayonnaise. Using a spatula or a hand mixer on low speed, mix until well combined. -Stir in the shredded cheddar and finely diced pimento until evenly distributed.

2. Sprinkle the onion powder and garlic powder into the cheese mixture. -Season with salt, black pepper, and if you prefer a kick, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to taste.

3. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

4. Store your pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld together. It can be served as a spread on crackers, as a filling in sandwiches, or as a dip with vegetables like celery sticks, carrots, and bell peppers.