Jalapeño Pepper Jack Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Creamy pepper jack cheese and tangy pickled jalapeños elevate the classic grilled cheese with a spicy, satisfying twist.

# Components:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough bread
02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
03 - 4 slices pepper jack cheese

→ Vegetables

04 - 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeño slices, drained and chopped

→ Optional Additions

05 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened

# Directions:

01 - Spread one side of each bread slice with softened butter.
02 - Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean work surface.
03 - Layer each with 2 slices of pepper jack cheese.
04 - Sprinkle the chopped pickled jalapeños evenly over the cheese. For extra creaminess, spread 1 tablespoon cream cheese on the unbuttered side of the top bread slices.
05 - Top each with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
06 - Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
07 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and the cheese has melted.
08 - Remove from the skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes less than twenty minutes from start to finish, perfect for when hunger hits hard and fast.
  • The pepper jack brings creamy heat that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
  • Pickled jalapeños add tang and bite, turning a basic grilled cheese into something you actually look forward to.
  • You probably already have most of these ingredients sitting in your kitchen right now.
02 -
  • Medium heat is your best friend here, high heat will char the bread before the cheese gets gooey.
  • Drain the jalapeños well or the sandwich can get soggy and the bread won't crisp properly.
  • Soften the butter first, cold butter tears the bread and creates uneven browning.
03 -
  • Press gently with the spatula while cooking to help the cheese melt faster and create better contact with the pan.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat beautifully and creates the crispiest crust.
  • Make extra and freeze the assembled, uncooked sandwiches wrapped tightly, then cook from frozen for an even quicker meal.
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