Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Grilled Cheese (Print)

Gooey melted cheddar meets tangy pickled jalapeños in this spicy twist on a classic sandwich.

# Ingredients:

→ Bread

01 - 4 slices thick-cut country bread or sourdough

→ Cheese & Fillings

02 - 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
03 - 0.25 cup pickled jalapeño slices, drained

→ For Grilling

04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# Directions:

01 - Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface. Spread butter evenly on one side of each slice.
02 - Flip the slices over. On two slices with unbuttered side facing up, evenly distribute the grated cheddar cheese.
03 - Scatter the pickled jalapeño slices over the cheese layer.
04 - Top with the remaining bread slices, ensuring buttered side faces outward.
05 - Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
06 - Place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
07 - Remove from skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It takes less than 15 minutes from counter to plate, perfect when you need comfort fast.
  • The pickled jalapeños add a tangy kick without overpowering the gooey cheese.
  • You probably have most of these ingredients sitting in your fridge right now.
  • It's the kind of sandwich that makes you pause mid-bite and smile.
02 -
  • If your heat is too high, the bread will burn before the cheese melts, leaving you with a crunchy shell and cold center.
  • Pressing the sandwich gently with a spatula helps the layers meld together, but don't smash it flat or you'll squeeze out all the cheese.
  • Let the butter come to room temperature first, cold butter will rip your bread and leave bald spots that won't crisp.
03 -
  • Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded, it melts smoother and tastes sharper without any weird texture.
  • Use a lid to cover the skillet for the first minute or two, it traps heat and helps the cheese melt faster without burning the bread.
  • If you're making more than two sandwiches, keep the finished ones warm in a low oven while you cook the rest.
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