Pimento Cheese BLT

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On a recent visit to Gulf Shores I had this Pimento Cheese BLT and it was AMAZING!!! Pimento Cheese is cheddar cheese, mayo & pimentos (along with a few other things depending on where you get it). Well – take that – SLATHER it on marble rye and add thick cut bacon, crisp lettuce and fresh tomato! Yes please!!!!

How did I find it? We had a night out planned at my fav music venue, the Flora-Bama. But beforehand, we ate dinner across the street at the Flora-Bama Yacht Club and this sandwich was my new favorite!

What’s in Pimento Cheese?

Every place in the South has their own Pimento Cheese – this version actually comes from another popular restaurant – Chicken Salad Chick! So what’s in it?

Sharp cheddar cheese – it’s a MUST to use sharp
Pepper jack cheese – it’s not enough to make it too spicy 😉
Pimentos!! – that’s what gives it the orange color – this recipe uses a small 4 oz jar
Mayonnaise – I always use Duke’s
Worcestershire sauce
Finely diced onions
Black pepper

Then you’ll also need thick cut bacon, lettuce, tomato and marble rye.

How do you make a Pimento Cheese BLT?

It’s very simple and you can make your pimento cheese the day before if you like – I like to refrigerate overnight to meld the flavors.

Mix together your pimento cheese and refrigerate
Cook bacon however you prefer (skillet, air fryer, grilled) and drain on paper towel
Lightly toast your marble rye – I used my Instant Pot Omni Oven Air Fryer because I could do them all at once. I lightly buttered one side too – just made the toast a little softer and yummier!
Make your sandwich! I like to have the Pimento Cheese on one side of the bread – tomato on the other side – then lettuce & bacon in the middle – but you do you!

Tips, Tricks & FAQs

What if I don’t have Pepper Jack?

You can use all cheddar or a mix of cheeses. Just be sure you get some sharp – or even extra sharp cheddar in there!

What does Pimento Cheese taste like?

Well – it’s basically cheese and mayo – the pimentos are a little sweet but don’t have a strong flavor. I love it!

Is Pimento Cheese Spicy?

Not usually but you could add a little hot sauce or more pepper jack if you’re looking for more zing!

How long does Pimento Cheese last?

It’s a mayo-based dip/spread – so I would say – in the fridge – it’s good for about a week.

What can I do with the rest of the Pimento Cheese (if you only make 1-2 sandwiches)?

I have some recipes below that you can use it in! But it’s also tasty just on crackers!

Can I use Pimento Cheese from the grocery store? Where is it in the grocery store?

Sure! You can definitely buy pre-made – it’s more expensive and comes in a pretty small tub – but it’s yum too! It’s usually in the nice cheese area (you know – not with the bagged cheeses but with the goat cheese, fresh mozzarella, hummus) in a little tub. This recipe makes 2-3 tubs worth!

Do I need to use Marble Rye?

No – of course not! The Flora-Bama did and I loved it – the aroma from Marble Rye is just delicious though – so give it a try!

What’s your favorite bacon?

I like a thick-cut hickory smoked bacon – but I buy Amana Colonies brand or Smithfield Thick Cut most of the time…

Other Favorite Gulf Shores Copycat Recipes

I’ve been to Gulf Shores a BUNCH of times – and every time I find a new favorite dish. If you’re headed there – be sure to check out my posts for Things to Do and places to eat! But I’ve made quite a few copycat recipes from Gulf Shores restaurants – here are my faves:

Other recipes with Pimento Cheese