Spicy Pepper Jack Grilled Cheese (Printable)

A fiery take on the classic featuring creamy pepper jack cheese and tangy pickled jalapeños for that satisfying spicy kick.

# 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:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes the comfort of melted cheese and adds just enough heat to wake up your taste buds without overwhelming them.
  • You can have it on the table in under twenty minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you need something satisfying fast.
  • The tangy bite of pickled jalapeños cuts through the richness in a way that keeps you coming back for another bite.
  • It uses simple pantry staples you probably already have, so no special shopping trip required.
02 -
  • Medium heat is your friend here, too high and the bread will blacken while the cheese stays cold and firm in the middle.
  • Drain those jalapeños well or the extra liquid will make your bread soggy and prevent that perfect crisp.
  • Softened butter spreads without tearing the bread, if yours is still hard, microwave it for five seconds at a time until it's spreadable.
03 -
  • Press the sandwich gently with your spatula while it cooks to help the cheese melt faster and bond everything together.
  • If you're making multiple sandwiches, keep the finished ones warm in a low oven while you cook the rest.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat evenly and gives you the most consistent crust.
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