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Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese

Irresistible Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese for Comfort Cravings

This Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese combines creamy cheeses and jalapeños for a spicy twist on a classic sandwich.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 4 pieces Jalapeños Add spiciness and flavor; substitute with mild peppers for less heat.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Provides a creamy and smooth texture; Neufchâtel cheese can be used for a lighter version.
  • 4 oz Cheddar Cheese Offers sharp flavor and melty goodness; feel free to use any preferred melting cheese.
  • 4 oz Monterey Jack Cheese Adds creaminess and enhances meltability; Fontina is a great alternative.
  • 4 slices Crispy Bacon Contributes smokiness and crunch; for a vegetarian option, use smoked tempeh or omit.
  • 2 tbsp Cilantro Optional; adds a fresh herbaceous note; substitute with green onions or parsley if desired.
For the Bread
  • 4 slices Thick White Bread Forms the sandwich base; any sturdy bread like sourdough or whole grain works too.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Essential for grilling the bread to golden perfection; consider plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wearing gloves, slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise, removing seeds and membranes. Fill each half with cream cheese and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes.
  2. While the jalapeños are baking, layer cheddar cheese on two slices of bread and Monterey Jack on the other two. Once jalapeños are cooled, slice and distribute on the cheddar. Top with crispy bacon and cilantro, then press together.
  3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet, buttery side down. Grill for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and cheese starts to melt.
  4. Flip sandwiches using a spatula, adding more butter if needed. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until golden and cheese is thoroughly melted.
  5. Remove from skillet, let rest for a minute, then cut in half diagonally. Serve warm with tomato soup or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños. Adjust spice levels based on preference and choose bread wisely to support the fillings.

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