Southern Pimento Cheese Tea Sandwiches
These Southern pimento cheese tea sandwiches are the kind of timeless comfort food that disappears fast at church socials, baby showers, and family gatherings. Made with sharp cheddar cheese, creamy mayonnaise, and sweet pimentos, this old-fashioned Southern sandwich recipe delivers rich flavor with minimal ingredients just like Aunt Linda used to make.
Often called the “caviar of the South,” pimento cheese has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations. This classic version skips the trendy add-ins and sticks to what works: simple ingredients, creamy texture, and irresistible flavor, all tucked between slices of soft white bread and cut into elegant tea sandwich triangles.
Why You’ll Love These Southern Pimento Cheese Sandwiches:
Classic Southern comfort food A true vintage recipe loved at potlucks and church gatherings
Easy make-ahead appetizer Perfect for parties, showers, brunches, and holidays
Budget-friendly ingredients Simple pantry staples with big flavor
Crowd-pleasing finger food Ideal for tea parties and grazing tables
Customizable Mild, smoky, or spicy to suit every taste
Yield: 24 small triangle tea sandwiches
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (about 2 cups)
4 oz extra-sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (about 1 cup)
1 (4 oz) jar diced pimentos, well drained
¾ cup full-fat mayonnaise
2 tbsp cream cheese, softened (optional, for extra creaminess)
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
¼ tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
1–2 tsp pimento juice or milk (as needed)
16 slices soft white sandwich bread
2–3 tbsp softened unsalted butter (optional, for spreading)
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly shredded cheddar cheeses. Freshly grated cheese ensures a smoother, creamier pimento cheese spread.
Add the drained pimentos, blotting dry if needed to prevent excess moisture.
Stir in the mayonnaise and cream cheese until well combined.
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Mix until thick but spreadable. Add pimento juice or milk 1 teaspoon at a time if needed.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Optional: Lightly butter each slice of bread to prevent sogginess.
Spread an even layer of pimento cheese on half the bread slices.
Top with remaining slices, press gently, and trim crusts.
Cut into small triangles for classic tea sandwiches.
Chill until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these classic pimento cheese tea sandwiches chilled on a platter or in parchment-lined bakery boxes. Pair with:
Dill pickles or sliced cucumbers
Deviled eggs
Potato chips
Fresh fruit tray
Sweet tea, lemonade, or iced coffee
Variations & Expert Tips:
Spicy pimento cheese: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce
Extra smooth texture: Pulse half the mixture in a food processor
Lighter version: Swap a few tablespoons of mayo with Greek yogurt
Make ahead: Prepare the pimento cheese up to 2 days in advance
