Cheddar Jalapeño Grilled Cheese (Printable Version)

Gooey cheddar and tangy pickled jalapeños between golden, buttery bread. A spicy take on a beloved classic.

# List of 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 (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 the comfort of melted cheese and wakes it up with just enough heat to keep things interesting.
  • You can make it with what you already have, no special ingredients or fancy techniques required.
  • The crispy butter crust against gooey cheese is the kind of texture contrast that never gets old.
  • It comes together faster than ordering takeout and tastes twice as satisfying.
02 -
  • Medium-low heat is non-negotiable, too high and the bread burns before the cheese melts, leaving you with a crispy shell and cold center.
  • Draining the jalapeños is crucial, the brine will make your bread limp and sad if you skip this step.
  • Grating your own cheese makes all the difference, pre-shredded doesn't melt the same way and you'll notice.
03 -
  • Let the butter come to room temperature before spreading, cold butter tears the bread and spreads unevenly.
  • Press gently with the spatula while cooking to help the cheese melt faster and bond the sandwich together.
  • If the bread is browning too fast, lower the heat and cover the skillet for a minute to trap steam and melt the cheese.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat beautifully and gives you the most even golden crust.
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