Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe: How to Make Augusta’s Famous Sandwich at Home

Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe: How to Make Augusta’s Famous Sandwich

Nothing says Masters Tournament like the legendary pimento cheese sandwich! If you’ve ever watched the tournament or set foot in Augusta National, you know this creamy, tangy spread is a Southern classic. But guess what? You don’t need a ticket to Georgia to enjoy it. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can make your own Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe at home!

This guide will take you through the history, ingredients, variations, and step-by-step instructions to recreate the famous sandwich. Whether you want the classic Augusta-style pimento cheese or a fun twist, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive right in!

The History Behind the Masters Pimento Cheese

The Story of Augusta’s Iconic Pimento Cheese

What makes this simple sandwich such a big deal? Well, the Masters Pimento Cheese Sandwich has been a tournament staple for decades. While most fans come for the golf, many return year after year for this creamy, cheddar-packed delight.

Back in the 1960s, a small sandwich shop near Augusta National supplied the tournament with its signature pimento cheese. The recipe was a well-guarded secret, known only to a few. In 2013, however, Augusta National switched vendors, and suddenly, the taste changed. Fans noticed immediately. The new version just wasn’t the same!

What Makes Masters Pimento Cheese Special?

Unlike your everyday pimento cheese, the Augusta version is smoother, richer, and perfectly spreadable. Here’s what sets it apart:

✔️ Ultra-creamy texture – Thanks to a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese.
✔️ Tangy yet mild flavor – The balance of mayonnaise and pimentos creates a unique taste.
✔️ Not too spicy – Unlike some Southern variations, this one is all about the cheese, not the heat.

Why the Recipe Changed (And Why It Matters)

For years, the original vendor kept the Masters Pimento Cheese recipe a mystery. When a new supplier took over, Augusta tried to recreate it—but something was off. The cheese didn’t spread the same way, and the flavor felt different. Some die-hard fans even called it a “pimento cheese crisis!”

The good news? You can make the classic version at home with the right ingredients and technique. In the next section, we’ll break down everything you need to make your very own Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe!

Ingredients for the Classic Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe

Now that we know the history behind this legendary sandwich, it’s time to talk ingredients. If you want to make the Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe just like Augusta National, choosing the right ingredients is key. One small tweak—like using the wrong cheese or mayo—can completely change the flavor and texture. So, let’s break it down.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Masters Pimento Cheese

To achieve that ultra-creamy, tangy, and spreadable texture, you’ll need:

🧀 The Cheese Trio (The Heart of the Recipe!)

✔️ Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, freshly shredded) – The bold, tangy base of the spread. Always shred it fresh—pre-shredded cheese just won’t melt right!
✔️ Monterey Jack Cheese (1 ¼ cups, freshly shredded) – Adds a smooth, creamy texture and mild flavor.
✔️ Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened) – The secret to making this pimento cheese extra spreadable.

🌶️ The Pimentos (The Star Ingredient!)

✔️ Diced Pimentos (½ cup, drained) – These little red peppers give the spread its signature color, sweetness, and mild tang.

🥄 The Creamy Base (For Perfect Consistency)

✔️ Mayonnaise (½ cup) – Duke’s Mayo is the gold standard, but Hellmann’s works too. Avoid overly sweet or light versions!
✔️ Sour Cream (¼ cup) – Not always traditional, but it adds a subtle tang and helps with smoothness.

🧂 The Seasonings (Small but Mighty!)

✔️ Garlic Powder (¼ tsp) – Adds depth without overpowering the cheese.
✔️ Onion Powder (¼ tsp) – Enhances the flavor without making it too onion-y.
✔️ Cayenne Pepper (⅛ tsp, optional) – Gives a slight kick without overpowering the cheese.

Ingredient Variations for Different Tastes

Want to customize your pimento cheese spread? Here are some variations to try:

🔥 Spicy Version

Love a little heat? Add:
✔️ Chopped Jalapeños (2 tbsp) – For extra spice!
✔️ Hot Sauce (½ tsp) – To kick up the tangy heat.

🧄 Extra Savory Version

For more depth of flavor, try:
✔️ Dijon Mustard (1 tsp) – Adds a slight tang.
✔️ Smoked Paprika (¼ tsp) – Gives a mild smoky twist.

🥑 Healthier Version

If you want to lighten it up, swap:
✔️ Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream – Keeps it creamy but cuts the fat.
✔️ Light Mayo for Regular Mayo – Still delicious, just slightly less rich.

Why These Ingredients Matter

The Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe isn’t just about throwing together some cheese and mayo—it’s about getting the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Using freshly shredded cheese is crucial for creaminess. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that make the spread gritty.
• Draining the pimentos well prevents the cheese mixture from becoming too watery.
• The blend of mayo and cream cheese gives the spread its signature smoothness—too much mayo makes it runny, too little makes it thick and dry.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Masters Pimento Cheese

Now that we’ve got all the right ingredients, it’s time to turn them into the legendary Masters Pimento Cheese spread! Follow these easy steps to get that ultra-creamy, tangy, and perfectly spreadable texture—just like they serve at Augusta National.

How to Make the Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe at Home

🥣 Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Before mixing, make sure to:
✔️ Shred the cheese fresh – This ensures the best texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese!
✔️ Drain the pimentos well – Too much liquid will make the spread runny.
✔️ Soften the cream cheese – Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

🧑‍🍳 Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
✔️ Cream cheese (softened)
✔️ Mayonnaise (rich and creamy)
✔️ Sour cream (for extra smoothness)

Use a spoon or hand mixer to blend until smooth. This creates the perfect creamy foundation for the cheese.

🧀 Step 3: Add the Cheeses & Pimentos

Now, fold in:
✔️ Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
✔️ Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
✔️ Diced pimentos

Gently mix until everything is evenly coated with the creamy base.

🌶️ Step 4: Season It Right

Sprinkle in:
✔️ Garlic powder
✔️ Onion powder
✔️ Cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat!)

Mix again until all ingredients are well combined.

❄️ Step 5: Chill for Maximum Flavor

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight). This allows the flavors to blend and makes the spread even richer and smoother.

🥪 Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Now comes the best part—serving your homemade Masters Pimento Cheese! Here are some great ways to enjoy it:
✔️ Classic Sandwich: Spread generously between two slices of soft white bread. Cut diagonally for that Masters Tournament look!
✔️ As a Dip: Serve with crackers, celery sticks, or toasted baguette slices.
✔️ Burger or Hot Dog Topping: Melt it over grilled meat for a creamy, cheesy twist.

Tips for the Perfect Masters Pimento Cheese

🔹 Don’t overmix! Keeping the texture slightly chunky makes the spread more authentic.
🔹 Chilling is essential – It brings out the tangy, creamy goodness.
🔹 Taste and adjust seasoning – Want it tangier? Add a touch more mayo. Need a little kick? Sprinkle in extra cayenne.

How to Serve Masters Pimento Cheese Like a Pro

You’ve made the Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe, but now comes the fun part—serving it up just like they do at Augusta National! Whether you’re making the classic Masters sandwich, using it as a dip, or getting creative, we’ve got the best ways to enjoy this legendary spread.

Serving the Masters Pimento Cheese the Traditional Way

If you want the true Masters Tournament experience, stick to the original serving method:

🥪 The Classic Masters Pimento Cheese Sandwich

✔️ Soft white sandwich bread – No fancy artisan loaves here! Augusta National keeps it simple.
✔️ Crusts removed – This gives the sandwich a clean, uniform look.
✔️ Generous cheese spread – Don’t skimp! Spread a thick layer on one slice of bread.
✔️ No toasting, no grilling – The original is soft, creamy, and cold, not grilled like a melt.

Once assembled, slice the sandwich diagonally for that signature look. Serve it chilled, just like they do at the Masters!

Other Delicious Ways to Serve Masters Pimento Cheese

Looking to mix things up? Here are some other great ways to enjoy your homemade pimento cheese spread:

🥨 As a Dip

✔️ Crackers or Pretzels – The salty crunch pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese spread.
✔️ Veggies – Celery sticks, carrot slices, and bell peppers are great dippers.

🍔 As a Topping

✔️ Burgers – Slather it on a freshly grilled patty for a Southern-style cheeseburger.
✔️ Hot Dogs – Skip the mustard—pimento cheese is a game-changer!
✔️ Baked Potatoes – Mix it into a steaming potato for a cheesy, tangy upgrade.

🌮 As a Spread

✔️ On a Bagel – Creamy, cheesy, and tangy—it’s a Southern twist on a bagel spread.
✔️ Inside a Wrap – Use it as the base for a chicken or turkey wrap.

How to Store Masters Pimento Cheese for Maximum Freshness

So, how long does your homemade pimento cheese last? Proper storage is key!

❄️ Storing in the Fridge

✔️ Airtight Container – Keeps it fresh for up to 5 days.
✔️ Glass Jars or Plastic Containers – Both work, but glass helps retain flavor better.
✔️ Stir Before Serving – The spread may firm up, so let it sit for 10 minutes at room temperature before use.

🚫 Can You Freeze Pimento Cheese?

Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended. The texture becomes grainy once thawed, losing that smooth, creamy consistency. If you must freeze it:
✔️ Use an airtight freezer bag – Keeps moisture out.
✔️ Freeze for no longer than 2 months – After that, the texture degrades.
✔️ Thaw in the fridge overnight – Never microwave it!

The Perfect Pairings for Masters Pimento Cheese

Want to elevate your Masters Pimento Cheese experience? Try pairing it with:

✔️ Sweet Tea or Iced Lemonade – The tangy cheese pairs beautifully with refreshing drinks.
✔️ Pickles on the Side – A crisp, sour bite cuts through the richness.
✔️ Potato Chips – Classic ridged chips add a nice crunch alongside the creamy spread.

Now that you know how to serve and store your Masters Pimento Cheese, let’s move on to Part 5, where we’ll compare it to other pimento cheese recipes and see what makes Augusta’s version stand out! 🏌️‍♂️

Masters Pimento Cheese vs. Other Pimento Cheese Recipes

Not all pimento cheese is created equal! While the Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe is famous for its smooth, creamy, and mild flavor, other versions can be chunkier, spicier, or more tangy. If you’ve ever wondered how Augusta’s version stacks up against traditional Southern-style pimento cheese, this section breaks it all down.

How Does Masters Pimento Cheese Compare to Other Recipes?

🥪 Masters Pimento Cheese (Augusta Style)

✔️ Smooth, creamy texture – Thanks to a mix of cream cheese, mayo, and sour cream.
✔️ Mild and tangy, not spicy – Perfect for all palates.
✔️ No extra add-ins – Just cheese, pimentos, and simple seasonings.
✔️ Always served cold – Unlike some versions that are melted or grilled.

Best for: Classic sandwiches, dips, and spreads.

🔥 Traditional Southern Pimento Cheese

✔️ Chunky and bold-flavored – Often contains larger cheese shreds and extra spices.
✔️ Usually includes mustard or hot sauce – Adds more tang and spice.
✔️ Sometimes served warm – Many Southern variations are used as grilled cheese fillings.
✔️ More flexible with ingredients – Some recipes use jalapeños, smoked paprika, or Worcestershire sauce.

Best for: Spicy spreads, grilled cheese, and baked dishes.

🛒 Store-Bought Pimento Cheese

✔️ Often overly processed – Many brands use preservatives and artificial flavors.
✔️ Tends to be too thick or too runny – Hard to get the perfect consistency.
✔️ Can have a strange aftertaste – Due to stabilizers and cheap oils.

Best for: Quick fixes, but nothing beats homemade!

What Makes Masters Pimento Cheese Special?

The Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe stands out because of its:

✔️ Ultra-creamy texture – The perfect blend of cheeses makes it smooth, not chunky.
✔️ Classic, mild flavor – No overpowering heat or tanginess.
✔️ Tournament tradition – It’s as much a part of Augusta National as the green jacket!

If you’re looking for the ultimate Southern comfort food, this is it. In Part 6, we’ll dive into some expert tips and tricks to take your Masters Pimento Cheese to the next level!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Masters Pimento Cheese

You’ve got the Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe down, but you might still have a few burning questions about ingredients, storage, and serving. Well, you’re not alone! Here are some of the most frequently asked questions—and expert answers—to help you perfect your pimento cheese experience!

🧐 FAQs About Masters Pimento Cheese Recipe

1️⃣ What kind of cheese is used in the Masters Pimento Cheese?

The classic Masters recipe uses a blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese. This combination gives it a smooth, creamy texture that sets it apart from chunkier pimento cheese spreads.

2️⃣ Can I make pimento cheese without mayonnaise?

Yes! While mayonnaise is traditional, you can substitute:
✔️ Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
✔️ Sour cream for a tangier taste.
✔️ Mashed avocado for a creamy, unique twist.

3️⃣ What’s the best bread for a Masters pimento cheese sandwich?

✔️ The official Masters sandwich uses soft white bread with the crusts removed.
✔️ If you want a twist, try Hawaiian rolls, whole wheat bread, or even croissants!

4️⃣ Can I use pre-shredded cheese for pimento cheese?

Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that make the spread grainy instead of smooth. Freshly shredded cheese is always best!

5️⃣ How long does homemade pimento cheese last in the fridge?

✔️ Properly stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 5 days.
✔️ Always stir before serving if it’s been in the fridge for a while.

6️⃣ Can I freeze pimento cheese?

Freezing is not recommended because it changes the texture, making it grainy and watery when thawed. If you must freeze it:
✔️ Store it in an airtight container.
✔️ Use within 2 months.
✔️ Thaw overnight in the fridge—never microwave it!

7️⃣ What’s the difference between Masters pimento cheese and regular pimento cheese?

✔️ Masters version is smoother and creamier with a mild, tangy flavor.
✔️ Traditional Southern versions are often chunkier, spicier, and served warm in grilled sandwiches.

8️⃣ Can I add extra flavors to my pimento cheese?

Absolutely! Some delicious add-ins include:
✔️ Jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
✔️ Dijon mustard for extra tang.
✔️ Smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

9️⃣ What’s the best way to serve Masters pimento cheese at a party?

✔️ As a dip with crackers, pretzels, and veggie sticks.
✔️ Spread onto mini sandwiches for easy snacking.
✔️ Topped on burgers, hot dogs, or baked potatoes for a fun twist.

🏆 Final Thoughts

By now, you’re a Masters Pimento Cheese expert! Whether you’re making the classic Augusta-style sandwich, serving it as a dip, or putting your own spin on it, this Southern favorite is a must-try.

So go ahead—whip up a batch, grab some soft white bread, and experience a bite of the Masters Tournament tradition right at home! 🏌️‍♂️

That’s a wrap! 🎉 Hope you enjoy making (and eating) your very own Masters Pimento Cheese! 🧀🥪 Let me know if you’d like any additional tips or variations! 😊

Print