Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese (Printable Version)

Buttery grilled cheese loaded with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and fresh jalapeños for a spicy, creamy twist on the classic.

# Components:

→ Dairy

01 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Vegetables

04 - 2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped

→ Bread

05 - 4 slices sturdy white or sourdough bread

→ Optional Additions

06 - 2 tbsp cooked bacon bits

# Method Steps:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and chopped jalapeños. Mix until well blended.
02 - Stir in bacon bits if desired for additional flavor and richness.
03 - Spread half the cheese mixture evenly over two slices of bread. Top each with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
04 - Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich, coating both sides generously.
05 - Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat until properly preheated.
06 - Place sandwiches on the hot skillet and grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
07 - Remove from heat and let cool for 1 to 2 minutes. Slice diagonally if desired and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish, perfect for lunch or a lazy dinner.
  • The creamy, spicy filling melts into the bread and tastes like a jalapeño popper you can hold in your hand.
  • You can adjust the heat level easily by adding or removing seeds, so everyone at the table is happy.
  • It uses simple ingredients you probably already have, with room to customize based on whats in your fridge.
02 -
  • Always seed your jalapeños unless you want serious heat, because the seeds and membranes hold most of the capsaicin and can overpower the creamy cheese.
  • Use medium heat on your skillet, not high, or the bread will burn before the cheese inside has a chance to melt properly.
  • Let the cream cheese soften fully at room temperature, because cold cream cheese will not mix smoothly and youll end up with lumps in your filling.
03 -
  • Press the sandwiches gently with your spatula while theyre cooking to help the cheese melt faster and create better contact with the pan for an even crust.
  • If your skillet is big enough, cook both sandwiches at once to keep them warm and serve them together, but dont overcrowd or theyll steam instead of crisp.
  • Use a serrated knife to slice the finished sandwiches so you dont squish them and squeeze out all that melted cheese.
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