The grilled pimento cheese sandwich is a Southern classic that has gained popularity across the United States. This mouthwatering sandwich is a perfect combination of creamy cheese, sweet pimentos, and crispy bread, all grilled to perfection. In this article, we will take you through the steps to make the ultimate grilled pimento cheese sandwich.
Understanding the Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this sandwich so special.
The Cheese
The star of the show is, of course, the cheese. For a traditional pimento cheese sandwich, you’ll want to use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. The cheddar provides a sharp, tangy flavor, while the Monterey Jack adds a creamy texture.
Why Cheddar and Monterey Jack?
These two cheeses work well together because they have different melting points. Cheddar has a higher melting point, which means it will hold its shape and provide a nice texture to the sandwich. Monterey Jack, on the other hand, has a lower melting point, which makes it perfect for melting and binding the cheese together.
The Pimentos
Pimentos are sweet, red peppers that are typically jarred and sold in most supermarkets. They add a sweet, slightly smoky flavor to the sandwich. When choosing pimentos, look for ones that are packed in water or olive oil, as these will have a more delicate flavor.
The Bread
The bread is the foundation of the sandwich, and for a grilled pimento cheese sandwich, you’ll want to use a hearty, crusty bread. Look for a bread that is made with high-quality ingredients and has a nice texture. Some good options include sourdough, ciabatta, or even a crusty baguette.
Preparing the Cheese Filling
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s start preparing the cheese filling.
Grating the Cheese
The first step is to grate the cheese. You’ll want to use a box grater or a food processor to grate the cheese into small, uniform pieces. This will help the cheese melt evenly and prevent any large chunks from forming.
Chopping the Pimentos
Next, chop the pimentos into small pieces. You’ll want to use about 1/4 cup of chopped pimentos per sandwich.
Mixing the Cheese and Pimentos
In a large bowl, combine the grated cheese, chopped pimentos, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the cheese and pimentos are well combined.
Adding the Mayonnaise
The final step is to add a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise to the cheese mixture. This will help bind the cheese together and add a creamy texture to the sandwich.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that we have our cheese filling, it’s time to assemble the sandwich.
Buttering the Bread
The first step is to butter one side of each slice of bread. This will help create a crispy, golden-brown crust on the bread.
Adding the Cheese Filling
Next, add a generous amount of the cheese filling to one slice of bread. You’ll want to use about 1/4 cup of cheese filling per sandwich.
Adding the Top Slice of Bread
Finally, add the top slice of bread to the sandwich, butter-side up.
Grilling the Sandwich
Now that our sandwich is assembled, it’s time to grill it.
Preheating the Grill
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-low heat. You’ll want to use a low heat to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
Grilling the Sandwich
Place the sandwich on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Carefully flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your grilled pimento cheese sandwich to the next level:
Using Different Types of Cheese
While cheddar and Monterey Jack are the traditional cheeses used in a pimento cheese sandwich, you can also experiment with other types of cheese. Some good options include:
- Gouda: This Dutch cheese has a nutty, caramel flavor that pairs well with the sweet pimentos.
- Provolone: This Italian cheese has a smooth, buttery flavor that works well with the crispy bread.
Adding Some Heat
If you like a little heat in your sandwich, you can add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the cheese filling.
Using a Panini Press
If you have a panini press, you can use it to grill the sandwich instead of a grill or grill pan. This will help create a crispy, evenly cooked sandwich.
Conclusion
The grilled pimento cheese sandwich is a delicious and easy-to-make sandwich that is perfect for lunch or dinner. By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a sandwich that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So next time you’re in the mood for a grilled cheese sandwich, give the pimento cheese sandwich a try. You won’t be disappointed!
What is a Pimento Cheese Sandwich?
A Pimento Cheese Sandwich is a classic Southern American dish that consists of a filling made from pimento cheese, which is a mixture of cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos, typically served between two slices of bread. The pimento cheese filling is often spread on the bread, and the sandwich is then grilled until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
The combination of the creamy pimento cheese and the crispy bread makes for a delicious and satisfying sandwich. The pimento cheese filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making it a convenient option for a quick and easy lunch or snack.
What type of cheese is best for a Pimento Cheese Sandwich?
The best type of cheese for a Pimento Cheese Sandwich is a sharp cheddar cheese. This type of cheese has a rich, tangy flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the pimentos and the creaminess of the mayonnaise. Other types of cheese, such as mild cheddar or Monterey Jack, can also be used, but sharp cheddar is the most traditional and flavorful option.
It’s also worth noting that using a high-quality cheese will make a big difference in the flavor of the sandwich. Look for a cheese that is made with real ingredients and has no artificial preservatives or additives. This will ensure that the cheese has a rich, authentic flavor that will elevate the sandwich to the next level.
How do I make the pimento cheese filling?
To make the pimento cheese filling, start by grating the cheddar cheese and placing it in a bowl. Then, add mayonnaise, diced pimentos, and any other desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined and the cheese is smooth and creamy.
It’s also a good idea to taste the filling as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If the filling is too thick, you can add a little more mayonnaise. If it’s too thin, you can add a little more cheese. This will ensure that the filling has the right consistency and flavor for the sandwich.
What type of bread is best for a Grilled Pimento Cheese Sandwich?
The best type of bread for a Grilled Pimento Cheese Sandwich is a crusty bread that can hold up to the filling and the grilling process. Some good options include sourdough, ciabatta, or a crusty white bread. Avoid using a soft or fluffy bread, as it may become too soggy or fall apart when grilled.
It’s also worth noting that using a bread that has some texture and chew will add to the overall flavor and experience of the sandwich. Look for a bread that has a slightly crispy crust and a soft interior, as this will provide a nice contrast to the creamy pimento cheese filling.
How do I grill the sandwich?
To grill the sandwich, start by preheating a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Then, butter one side of each slice of bread and place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill. Spread a layer of pimento cheese filling on top of the bread, and then place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
Cook the sandwich for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Then, carefully flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown. This will ensure that the sandwich is crispy on the outside and melted on the inside.
Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the sandwich to give it more flavor and texture. Some good options include sliced meats, such as ham or turkey, or sliced vegetables, such as tomatoes or spinach. You can also add some sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to give the sandwich a spicy kick.
Just be sure not to overdo it, as too many ingredients can make the sandwich overwhelming. Stick to one or two additional ingredients and make sure they complement the pimento cheese filling. This will ensure that the sandwich has a balanced flavor and texture.
How do I store leftover pimento cheese filling?
Leftover pimento cheese filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply place the filling in an airtight container and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. You can also freeze the filling for up to 3 months, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature when you’re ready to use it.
It’s also worth noting that the filling will thicken as it cools, so you may need to stir it or add a little more mayonnaise to get it back to the right consistency. This is normal, and the filling should still taste great even after it’s been stored for a few days.