Ingredients:

  • 8 oz extra-sharp yellow cheddar, hand-grated on large holes
  • 8 oz sharp white cheddar, hand-grated on small holes
  • 1/2 cup high-quality mayonnaise
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 4 oz diced pimentos, drained
  • 1 tsp reserved pimento brine
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Grate the yellow cheddar using the large holes of your box grater to create thick, sturdy strands. Grate the white cheddar using the fine holes for a multi-textured finish.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and the reserved teaspoon of pimento brine.
  3. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, whip the binder ingredients until the mixture is light, airy, and completely smooth.
  4. Add the grated cheeses and the drained pimentos to the bowl.
  5. Using a silicone spatula, gently fold the cheese into the binder until evenly coated, ensuring you do not mash the cheese shards.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Transfer to a sealed container and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the structure to set.