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Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese

Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese

The Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese is a spicy, cheesy twist on the classic grilled sandwich featuring creamy jalapeño-infused cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and buttery toasted bread. Ready in under 20 minutes, this sandwich delivers a perfect balance of bold heat, melty cheese, and crunchy texture, ideal for a quick lunch or satisfying snack.

  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 1 sandwich 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • Thick slices of white or sourdough bread (2 slices per sandwich)

Jalapeño Cream Cheese Mixture

  • 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese
  • 1–2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
  • Pinch of garlic powder (optional)

Cheese

  • 1/3 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Butter

  • Butter, enough to lightly coat the outside of bread slices for grilling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jalapeño Cream Cheese Mixture: Finely chop fresh jalapeños and mix them into softened cream cheese along with a pinch of garlic powder to create a creamy, spicy spread.
  2. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the jalapeño cream cheese generously over one slice of bread, then layer shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover with the second slice of bread.
  3. Butter the Bread: Lightly butter the outside of both bread slices to achieve a golden, crispy crust when grilled.
  4. Grill to Perfection: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sandwich about 3–4 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. Press down gently with a spatula for even browning and melting.
  5. Serve Warm: Remove the sandwich from the pan, slice in half, and enjoy immediately while the cheese is warm and stretchy.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for easy spreading and better blending with jalapeños.
  • Remove jalapeño seeds and membranes to reduce spiciness if desired.
  • Grill over medium-low heat to melt cheese thoroughly without burning the bread.
  • Press gently while grilling to ensure sandwich holds together and browns evenly.
  • Try experimenting with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or smoked cheddar for varied cheese flavors.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg

Keywords: jalapeño, grilled cheese, spicy sandwich, cream cheese, cheddar, comfort food, quick recipe