Southern Comfort on a Bun: North Carolina’s Pimento Cheese Egg Salad Sandwiches Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, the South has a treasure trove of simple yet flavorful dishes. One that stands out, especially in North Carolina, is the Pimento Cheese Egg Salad Sandwich. It's the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and savory, packed into a delicious sandwich. Whether you’re picnicking at a local park, sitting on the porch, or packing lunch for a family gathering, this sandwich brings the taste of the Carolinas to your table with ease.

Photo bythissillygirlskitchen.com

The dish blends two Southern staples—pimento cheese and classic egg salad—into a sandwich that’s rich in flavor, yet light enough to enjoy anytime. The pimento cheese, a North Carolina favorite, provides a creamy, mildly spicy kick, while the egg salad adds extra heartiness to each bite. Together, they create a spread that's as versatile as it is delicious, perfect for lunch, brunch, or even a casual dinner.

North Carolina Style Pimento Cheese Egg Salad Sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp diced pimentos (from a jar, drained)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 slices of your favorite sandwich bread (white or whole wheat works great)
• Lettuce leaves for layering (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard, and pickle relish. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Gently fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, stirring to combine the egg with the pimento cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay out the bread slices. Spread a generous portion of the pimento cheese egg salad onto four slices.
4. Add a leaf of lettuce on top of the mixture if desired, then top with the remaining slices of bread.
5. Cut sandwiches in half, serve, and enjoy!

This sandwich pairs well with a side of chips or a fresh garden salad. It's a true taste of North Carolina, blending the tangy kick of pimento cheese with the richness of eggs for a dish that’s sure to be a hit.

The Story Behind the Sandwich

Pimento cheese is a much-loved staple throughout the South, especially in North Carolina. Known as "Carolina caviar," it’s a creamy, spreadable mixture made from sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. While it’s often served on its own or as a dip, North Carolinians have found countless ways to enjoy this versatile dish—one of the best being in sandwiches.

Adding egg salad to the mix creates an extra layer of richness that balances the creaminess of the pimento cheese. Whether served on classic white bread or a heartier wheat, this sandwich brings together tradition and comfort in every bite. The blend of familiar flavors makes it perfect for gatherings, or a quiet meal at home.

As you savor each bite, you're tasting a piece of Southern culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations. The humble yet flavorful ingredients tell a story of simplicity and taste, all while celebrating the heart of North Carolina’s food culture.

Sources:

Easy Pimento Cheese Egg Salad Sandwiches (thissillygirlskitchen.com)

Pimento Cheese Egg Salad - Cooked by Julie

Pimento Cheese Egg Salad l Belly Full