Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese (Printable Version)

Creamy cheeses join spicy jalapeños and bacon for a twist on classic grilled cheese.

# What You'll Need:

→ Bread

01 - 4 slices sourdough or hearty white bread

→ Cheese Mixture

02 - 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
04 - 2 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

→ Vegetables

05 - 2 jalapeños, halved, seeded, and roasted or grilled

→ Meats (optional)

06 - 2 slices cooked bacon, chopped (optional)

→ For Assembly

07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a small mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, and Monterey Jack until smooth.
02 - Spread the cheese mixture evenly over two slices of bread.
03 - Distribute roasted jalapeño halves and sprinkle chopped bacon evenly over the cheese mixture.
04 - Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
05 - Spread softened butter on the outside of each bread slice.
06 - Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is thoroughly melted.
07 - Let sandwiches rest for one minute before slicing and serving.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Simple ingredients from your pantry and fridge
  • Ready in under twenty minutes
  • Perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and crunchy
  • Easy to adapt for vegetarians or milder tastes
02 -
  • High in protein and filling
  • Freezes well for quick meals later
  • Perfect balance of spicy and creamy
03 -
  • Always use softened butter for even coverage on bread. Press sandwiches gently in the pan with a spatula for extra crispy crust.
  • For milder heat, remove all jalapeño seeds before roasting. For more flavor, rub the bread with a cut clove of garlic before assembling.