Spicy Jalapeño Havarti Grilled Cheese (Print)

A spicy twist on a classic grilled cheese with creamy Havarti and jalapeño slices between golden, crispy bread.

# Ingredients:

→ Bread

01 - 4 slices sourdough or country white bread

→ Dairy

02 - 4 oz Havarti cheese, sliced
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Vegetables

04 - 1 fresh jalapeño, thinly sliced with seeds removed for less heat

→ Optional

05 - 1 tablespoon mayonnaise for extra crispiness

# Directions:

01 - Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
02 - Butter one side of each bread slice evenly. Optionally spread mayonnaise on the inside of each slice for richer flavor.
03 - Place two bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Layer with Havarti cheese and distribute jalapeño slices evenly over the cheese. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
04 - Place sandwiches onto the hot skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
05 - Remove from skillet, let cool for 1 minute, slice, and serve hot.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The creamy Havarti melts into every corner while the jalapeño gives just enough heat to make each bite interesting without overwhelming.
  • It comes together in under 20 minutes, which means you can make it on a whim when comfort food calls.
  • The crispy buttered bread creates the kind of crunch that makes you close your eyes for a second when you take that first bite.
02 -
  • Medium heat is your friend here, because high heat will char the bread before the cheese has a chance to melt all the way through.
  • Don't skip the one minute rest after cooking, or the cheese will slide right out when you cut into it.
  • Softening the butter first makes spreading so much easier and prevents tearing the bread, which I learned after ruining two slices one rushed morning.
03 -
  • Press the sandwich gently with your spatula while it cooks to help the cheese melt faster and the layers stick together.
  • If you're making multiple sandwiches, keep the finished ones warm in a low oven while you cook the rest so everyone eats at the same time.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, because it holds heat evenly and gives you the most consistent golden crust.
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