Cheddar Jalapeño Grilled Cheese (Printable)

A spicy take on the classic with melted sharp cheddar and tangy pickled jalapeños between golden, buttery slices of bread.

# What You Need:

→ 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

# Steps:

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 (unbuttered side), evenly distribute the grated cheddar cheese.
03 - Scatter the pickled jalapeño slices over the cheese.
04 - Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
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 Advice:

01 -
  • It takes less time than ordering takeout and tastes twice as good when the cheese is still bubbling.
  • The pickled jalapeños add a tangy kick without overwhelming the richness of the melted cheddar.
  • You probably have everything you need already sitting in your fridge and pantry.
  • It's endlessly adaptable, so you can make it your own with whatever extras you're craving that day.
02 -
  • Medium-low heat is non-negotiable, I learned this after burning three sandwiches in a row trying to rush the process.
  • Drain the jalapeños thoroughly or the extra liquid will make your bread soggy and prevent that perfect crispy crust.
  • Grating your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded makes the texture completely different, it melts smooth and creamy instead of grainy.
03 -
  • Press the sandwich gently with your spatula while it cooks, this helps the cheese melt evenly and creates better contact with the skillet for a crispier crust.
  • If your skillet isn't large enough for both sandwiches, cook them one at a time and keep the first one warm in a low oven while you finish the second.
  • For extra heat, add a few slices of fresh jalapeño along with the pickled ones, or sprinkle a pinch of red chili flakes over the cheese before closing the sandwich.
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