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Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese

Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese

The Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese is a mouthwatering sandwich featuring a perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors between golden, buttery grilled bread. Combining smoky jalapeños, rich cream cheese, and melty sharp cheddar, this comforting twist on classic grilled cheese is quick to make and customizable to your spice preference. Ideal for lunch, brunch, or a snack, it delivers a fiesta of vibrant tastes and textures that is both nostalgic and exciting.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 2 slices thick-cut bread such as sourdough or country loaf

Cheese and Spreads

  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Vegetables

  • 12 fresh or pickled jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)

Others

  • Butter, enough to generously butter both sides of the bread
  • Optional: garlic powder, a pinch

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese with finely chopped jalapeños and a pinch of garlic powder if using. Mix well until smooth and evenly spiced.
  2. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous layer of the jalapeño cream cheese mixture onto one slice of bread. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, then place the second slice of bread over the filling.
  3. Butter the Bread: Evenly butter the outside surfaces of both bread slices, ensuring full coverage for a crispy, golden finish once grilled.
  4. Grill to Perfection: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Grill the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is deep golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey. Press gently with a spatula to promote even melting and contact.
  5. Serve Warm: Remove from the skillet and let cool for a minute. Slice and enjoy immediately while warm and melty.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for easier spreading and even flavor distribution.
  • Do not overfill the sandwich to prevent sogginess and difficulty flipping.
  • Grill over medium-low heat to allow cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the bread.
  • Gently press the sandwich during grilling to enhance even melting and contact.
  • Opt for fresh jalapeños for better texture and brighter flavor as opposed to canned.

Nutrition

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