Servings: 12Prep: 10 minsTotal: 10 mins
The Low FODMAP Pimento Cheese You’ll Want to Put on Everything
If you love classic Southern-style pimento cheese but need something gentler on digestion, this Low FODMAP pimento cheese is such an easy win. It’s creamy, tangy, cheesy, and full of that familiar sharp cheddar flavor, but made with simple ingredient swaps that keep it more IBS-friendly.
Traditional pimento cheese often includes garlic powder, onion powder, or regular cream cheese, which can be tricky for those following a Low FODMAP diet. This version uses lactose-free cream cheese, sharp cheddar, pimentos, mayo, and a small amount of garlic scape powder to create that savory flavor without relying on common high-FODMAP ingredients.
It’s one of those easy make-ahead recipes that works just as well for snack plates and lunches as it does for parties, tailgates, or a last-minute appetizer. Serve it with Low FODMAP crackers, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or gluten-free toast for a simple snack that still feels a little special.
For more Low FODMAP dips that feel party-ready and easy to share, try the warm gumbo dip or hot spinach artichoke dip next.
For more Low FODMAP dips that feel party-ready and easy to share, try the warm gumbo dip or hot spinach artichoke dip next.
What Makes This Pimento Cheese Low FODMAP?
A few smart ingredient choices help keep this recipe flavorful and Low FODMAP-friendly:
- Lactose-free sharp cheddar cheese: Using lactose-free cheddar helps keep this spread extra gentle for those who are sensitive to lactose while still giving you that bold, classic pimento cheese flavor. Grating it yourself gives the best texture and helps the pimento cheese taste fresher.
- Lactose-free cream cheese: This gives the spread its creamy, rich texture without the lactose found in traditional cream cheese. It also helps the mixture hold together perfectly!
- Pimento peppers: Pimentos add mild sweetness, color, and classic pimento cheese flavor. Be sure to drain them well so the spread doesn’t become watery.
- Mayo: A small amount of mayonnaise helps loosen the mixture and gives it that smooth, scoopable texture.
- Garlic scape powder: This adds a gentle garlic-like flavor while keeping the recipe Low FODMAP-friendly. A little goes a long way, so start with the amount listed and adjust to taste.
Substitutions & Variations
This lactose-free pimento cheese is easy to customize depending on how you like it.
- For a little heat, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small amount of diced jalapeño.
- If you like a smoother spread, use a hand mixer to blend everything together until creamy.
- For a chunkier texture, gently fold the ingredients together by hand so the shredded cheddar stays more noticeable.
- If you want a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
- For extra tang, add a small splash of Low FODMAP-friendly pickle juice or a tiny squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips for the Best Low FODMAP Pimento Cheese
A few small details make this spread taste even better.
- Grate the cheddar yourself because freshly grated cheese gives the pimento cheese a smoother texture and better flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature first so that the softened cream cheese mixes easily with the cheddar, mayo, and pimentos.
- Drain the pimentos really well because excess liquid can make the spread watery instead of thick and creamy.
- Chill the pimento cheese before serving so the flavors have time to blend and the texture firms up just enough for scooping.
Serving Ideas
This Low FODMAP pimento cheese is one of those recipes that can be used in so many easy ways. Try it:
- Spread on gluten-free toast or Low FODMAP bread
- Scooped with cucumber rounds or bell pepper strips
- Served with Low FODMAP crackers
- Added to a snack board with grapes, olives, and nuts
- Spread on a sandwich with turkey or meatloaf burgers
- Dolloped onto a baked potato or loaded potato skins
- Mixed into baked mac and cheese
Storage
- Leftovers: Store leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Give it a good stir before serving, especially if it has firmed up in the fridge.
- This recipe is best served chilled or slightly softened at room temperature. I don’t recommend freezing it, since the texture of the cream cheese and mayo can change once thawed.
FAQs
Is pimento cheese Low FODMAP?
Traditional pimento cheese may not always be Low FODMAP because it can contain garlic powder, onion powder, or regular cream cheese. This version uses lactose-free cream cheese and garlic scape powder to keep it more Low FODMAP-friendly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after it chills for a bit. You can make it a few hours ahead or the day before serving.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but freshly grated cheddar gives the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can make the spread a little less creamy.
Can I make this spicier?
Yes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or a small amount of diced jalapeño if tolerated.
Low FODMAP Pimento Cheese
This creamy Low FODMAP pimento cheese is a Southern-inspired spread made with sharp cheddar, lactose-free cream cheese, pimentos, mayo, and garlic scape powder for big flavor without common high-FODMAP ingredients.
Servings: 12 servingsPrep: 10 minsTotal: 10 minsDifficulty: Easy
AmericanSnackAppetizerDipDairy-FreeIBS-friendly dip recipe
Ingredients
8 oz lactose-free cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
4 oz pimento peppers, drained and chopped
1 teaspoon teaspoon garlic scape powder
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1
Add the softened lactose-free cream cheese and mayo to a medium mixing bowl, then stir until mostly smooth and creamy.
2
Fold in the grated sharp cheddar cheese, drained pimento peppers, garlic scape powder, salt, and black pepper.
3
Mix until everything is evenly combined, leaving the texture as chunky or smooth as you prefer.
4
Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or garlic scape powder as needed.
5
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
6
Serve chilled with Low FODMAP crackers, gluten-free toast, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving
Calories
154
154
Fat
12.7g
12.7g
Carbs
3.8g
3.8g
Protein
6.6g
6.6g
Fiber
0.0g
0.0g
Sodium
198.0mg
198.0mg
Sugars
1.0g
1.0g
Sat. Fat
7.7g
7.7g
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheddar for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure the pimentos are well drained so the spread stays thick and creamy.
- For a smoother pimento cheese, use a hand mixer to blend the ingredients together.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Articles
Products
Comments
Join The Conversation...