Pimento Cheese Spread With Smoked Paprika - cooking recipe

Ingredients

8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
2/3 cup pecans (toasted and chopped)
4 ounces pimientos (drained well)
1/4 teaspoon onion powder (or to taste)
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (or to taste)
2 ounces cream cheese (low fat okay)
1/4 cup mayonnaise

Preparation

Grate cheese into a medium sized bowl.
Toast pecans, then rough chop in a food processor.
Add drained pimentos, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cream cheese to the pecans in the food processor bowl. Process until as smooth as you'd like!
Add pimento pecan mixture to the grated cheese; add mayonnaise and stir until well combined.
Serve immediately, or chill for a better blend of flavors. Serve on crackers, celery sticks, or make into sandwiches!
NOTE: I prefer the stiffer pimento cheese spread (as written) for toasted/grilled sandwiches! For a softer consistency, add 1-2 ounces more cream cheese, or increase the mayonnaise by 1-2 tablespoons.