Save A fun, shareable twist on classic grilled cheese featuring creamy pimento cheese and spicy jalapeños baked into pull-apart bread—perfect for gatherings or game day.
This recipe has become a favorite at our family get-togethers where everyone loves pulling apart the cheesy bread and enjoying the spicy jalapeños mixed with creamy pimento cheese.
Ingredients
- Pimento Cheese Spread: 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 4 oz cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Bread: 1 large round sourdough loaf (about 1 lb)
- Jalapeños & Toppings: 2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat if desired) 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Cheese Spread:
- In a medium bowl, combine cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Cut Bread:
- Using a sharp bread knife, cut the sourdough loaf into a grid pattern: slice both horizontally and vertically, about 1 inch apart, but do not cut all the way through—leave the bottom of the loaf intact to create pull-apart sections.
- Stuff Loaf:
- Carefully stuff the pimento cheese mixture into the cuts, ensuring even distribution throughout the loaf.
- Add Jalapeños:
- Tuck jalapeño slices between the bread sections alongside the cheese mixture.
- Brush Butter:
- Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter.
- Bake Covered:
- Transfer the stuffed loaf to the prepared baking sheet. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden.
- Add Chives & Serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped chives, if desired. Serve warm, pulling apart pieces to enjoy.
Save This grilled cheese brings my family together, especially during game nights where everyone enjoys pulling apart the cheesy bread and sharing stories.
Notes
Serve with a side of tomato soup for a classic pairing. Leftovers can be wrapped and reheated in the oven.
Required Tools
Bread knife, mixing bowl, baking sheet, pastry brush, parchment paper, aluminum foil.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, cream cheese, butter) and gluten (bread). Contains eggs (in mayonnaise). May contain mustard (check mayonnaise and bread ingredients). Always check ingredient labels if you have specific allergies.
Save This pimento cheese pull-apart is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and shareable.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I prepare the bread for stuffing?
Cut the sourdough loaf into a grid pattern about 1 inch apart both horizontally and vertically, but stop before cutting all the way through to keep the base intact.
- → Can I adjust the spice level of the jalapeños?
Yes, remove the seeds to reduce heat or use fewer jalapeño slices for a milder flavor.
- → What cheese options work well for the filling?
Sharp cheddar is recommended, but pepper jack can be used for a spicier twist. Cream cheese and mayonnaise help create a creamy texture.
- → How do I bake the stuffed loaf properly?
Cover loosely with foil and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bread is golden.
- → Are there any recommended add-ins or toppings?
Chopped fresh chives add color and flavor. For extra savoriness, crumbled cooked bacon can be mixed in before baking.
- → What tools are needed for this preparation?
A bread knife, mixing bowl, baking sheet, pastry brush, parchment paper, and aluminum foil are essential for this dish.