Derby Pimento Cheese Sandwiches (Printable)

Southern-style creamy pimento cheese layered on white bread, perfect for social events.

# What You Need:

→ Cheese Mixture

01 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
02 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
04 - 1/4 cup jarred diced pimentos, drained
05 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
08 - 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Sandwich Assembly

10 - 24 slices thin white sandwich bread, crusts removed
11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# How-To:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and mayonnaise. Beat with a hand mixer or stir vigorously until smooth and creamy.
02 - Add diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix until evenly incorporated.
03 - Lay out the bread slices. Lightly spread one side of each slice with softened butter to prevent sogginess.
04 - Evenly spread pimento cheese mixture on half of the bread slices, using approximately 2 tablespoons per slice. Top with remaining bread slices to form complete sandwiches.
05 - Using a sharp serrated knife, trim off crusts and cut each sandwich into thirds or quarters to create uniform finger sandwiches.
06 - Arrange on a platter, cover with a damp paper towel, and refrigerate until serving time, up to 4 hours before consumption.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare with just 20 minutes from start to finish
  • Perfect for entertaining—makes 24 finger sandwiches ideal for parties
  • Classic Southern flavor that appeals to all ages
  • Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for convenience
  • Requires no cooking, making it stress-free for busy hosts
02 -
  • Grate your own cheese for the creamiest texture—pre-shredded cheese won't melt as smoothly
  • Make the pimento cheese spread up to 3 days ahead and store covered in the refrigerator
  • Use a damp paper towel to cover assembled sandwiches and prevent them from drying out
  • Cut sandwiches just before serving for the neatest presentation
  • Store assembled sandwiches tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 24 hours before serving
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