Jalapeño Pepper Jack Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Crispy sourdough with melted pepper jack and zesty jalapeños delivers satisfying heat in minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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

# How-To Steps:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The tangy heat cuts through the rich cheese perfectly, making every bite exciting instead of heavy
  • It comes together in under 20 minutes but tastes like something from a fancy diner
  • The pickled jalapeños add a bright crunch that fresh peppers just cannot match
02 -
  • Pressing down gently with your spatula while cooking helps the cheese adhere to the bread, preventing that disappointing slide when you take a bite
  • Letting the sandwiches rest for a full minute after cooking is the secret to keeping the cheese from oozing out immediately when you slice them
  • Medium heat is crucial, high heat burns the bread before the cheese has a chance to melt completely
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, as it holds heat evenly and creates the most impressive golden crust
  • Grating a tiny bit of extra pepper jack on the outside before buttering adds an incredible cheesy crunch
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