Filipino Cheese Pimiento Spread

Filipino cheese pimiento is a nostalgic sandwich spread found in nearly every household, each with its own twist. My version gets a savory upgrade with umami-packed Kewpie mayo for a rich, creamy bite that’s hard to resist.

A truly nostalgic sandwich staple with a flavorful twist. This version of Filipino cheese pimiento spread is made with rich Kewpie mayo for an extra umami kick!

Here in America, pimento cheese is a classic Southern sandwich spread. It is most popular as one of the signature menu items served at The Masters golf tournament in Augusta, Georgia. It’s a chunky mixture of cheddar cheese, mayo, and chopped pimentos.

The Philippines has their own version of this versatile cheese spread made with queso de bola. I grew up eating a hybrid version that made use of ingredients readily available in California.

Pimento Cheese Spread is:

Make-ahead friendly
Has a unique savory flavor profile
Great for crowds, gatherings, parties

Ingredients

You need a few simple ingredients: mayo, cream cheese, cheese, and pimientos. I boost the umami flavor by swapping regular mayo for savory, MSG-rich Kewpie Japanese mayo. Kewpie is richer, tangier, and creamier than traditional American mayo.

Filipinos traditionally prefer queso de bola for this cheese spread. You have plenty of cheese options to choose from including edam, gouda, cheddar, or parmesan. I personally like a mixture of edam and aged gouda. Choose whatever you cheese you like as long as it is freshly grated!

Pimiento, also spelled pimento, are small red chili peppers. They’re sweet and juicy similar to a red bell pepper, without much heat or spice. This recipe uses jarred chopped pimiento.

Assembly

Filipino cheese pimiento spread is super easy to make. Simply mix all the ingredients together until well combined.

Transfer the chunky cheese mixture to an airtight glass container. While you could certainly use the spread immediately after mixing, it is best to keep the cheese pimiento spread in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

There are many ways to serve cheese pimiento spread. The three most popular serving suggestions:

Cheese Pimiento Sandwiches
- Spread on pandesal, toast, or bread of choice
Cracker Spread
- Great on SkyFlakes, Ritz, water crackers, or club crackers
Dip
- An excellent dip for lumpia, crudities (such as cucumbers, carrots, or celery), or potato chips