Description
A decadent and spicy twist on the classic grilled cheese, featuring a creamy jalapeño popper filling with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, fresh jalapeños, and crispy bacon, all sandwiched between buttery toasted bread for a perfectly golden crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 4 slices sturdy bread (such as sourdough or Texas toast)
Filling
- 4 oz softened cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 clove fresh garlic, minced)
- 4 slices cooked crispy bacon
Other
- Butter, enough to thoroughly butter each slice of bread
Instructions
- Prepare the jalapeño popper filling: Finely dice the jalapeños and mix them with the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and garlic powder until well combined to create a creamy and spicy filling.
- Assemble the sandwich: Spread a generous layer of the jalapeño popper mixture evenly onto one slice of bread. If using bacon, layer the cooked bacon strips on top, then cover with the second slice of bread.
- Butter the bread: Butter the outside of each slice of bread thoroughly to ensure a golden, crispy crust when grilled.
- Grill to perfection: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook slowly for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until both sides are deep golden brown and the cheese has melted throughout.
- Serve warm: Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before slicing to help the cheese set slightly and reduce mess.
Notes
- For less heat, remove jalapeño seeds before dicing.
- Use sturdy bread like sourdough or Texas toast for best results.
- Cooking slowly over medium-low heat helps the cheese melt without burning the bread.
- Allow the sandwich to rest briefly before slicing to avoid cheese oozing out excessively.
- Bacon is optional but adds great flavor and texture.
