Take a classic sandwich you know you like and add a little spice!
One of the easiest yet tastiest sandwiches to eat – at least for me – has always been a grilled cheese. I suppose that’s not the case if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, but for everyone else, you can’t go wrong with a good grilled cheese sandwich.
However, I’ve constantly been a firm believer that there is always a way to make something that’s good even better. In the case of a grilled cheese, that means adding toasted jalapeños, and perhaps even a little bacon. It gives you everything that’s great about grilled cheese and so much more!
Of course, this recipe probably isn’t for you if you don’t like spicy foods. However, the jalapeños aren’t that overpowering in this sandwich; their flavor is muted by the gooeyness of the melted cheese. The jalapeños and bacon also add some much-needed texture to the grilled cheese, which sets it apart from other grilled cheeses.
If you’re interested in exploring more varieties of grilled cheese sandwiches, you might like this Avocado Grilled Cheese or this Egg Salad Grilled Cheese. One more healthy option that I always enjoy is a Gluten-Free Grilled Cheese Hummus Sandwich with Pumpkin.
Is Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese Healthy?
This isn’t the most health-conscious way to prepare grilled cheese. The cholesterol and sodium levels are high, so this recipe is not for someone on a strict diet.
However, the silver lining is that there is some nutritional value in this sandwich. The bacon is a source of protein while the cheese provides a healthy dose of calcium. Thanks to the jalapeños, this sandwich also offers vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and other nutrients, so there is some nutritional value despite all of the fat and calories.
Mix and Match
My favorite thing to do with a grilled cheese, regardless of what the recipe I’m following says, is to mix and match different types of cheese. I know this recipe calls for just cheddar cheese, but if you’re keen to try out my method, I always use at least two or three varieties of cheese in every grilled cheese sandwich I make. In addition to cheddar, I’m a big fan of pepper jack to add even more spice. You might also enjoy adding American, Colby, or mozzarella cheese to this sandwich.
How to make ahead and store
If you don’t finish the entire sandwich or you want to make it for a future meal, make sure you wrap it tightly in foil and store it in the fridge. The sandwich should stay good for 3 or 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Personally, nothing goes better with grilled cheese than tomato soup. This can mean the classic Tomato Soup or perhaps some Instant Pot Tomato Soup. But since a jalapeño popper grilled cheese is special, you might want a special type of soup. In that case, I would recommend either Tomato Basil Soup or a Panera Tomato Soup. Of course, you might prefer to go with a healthy salad to complement your grilled cheese. If that’s your preference, I suggest a Mediterranean Low-Carb Broccoli Salad.
Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 large jalapeños
- 4 slices cooked bacon optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place whole jalapeños on a baking sheet and roast for about 15 to 20 minutes or until the skins are blistered and slightly blackened. Remove from oven, let cool, then peel, deseed, and slice.
- Butter one side of each bread slice. Spread cream cheese on the non-buttered side of two slices.
- Top with cheddar cheese, roasted jalapeño slices, and bacon if using. Cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet, and grill until golden brown and the cheese has melted, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Serve hot.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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