Description
This Roasted Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese combines the spicy kick of roasted jalapeños with creamy cream cheese, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar, all sandwiched between buttery Texas toast and toasted to golden perfection on the stovetop. A bold, flavorful twist on a classic grilled cheese sandwich that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Jalapeño Roasting
- 4 medium jalapeños
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheese Spread
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Sandwich Assembly
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 strips cooked bacon
- 4 slices Texas toast
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Roast the Jalapeños: Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Halve the jalapeños and brush them with olive oil. Place them cut side down on the baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes until they are slightly charred and softened.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, garlic salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and well combined. Once the jalapeños have cooled slightly, chop them finely and fold them into the cream cheese mixture, evenly distributing the roasted pepper flavor.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Butter one side of each slice of Texas toast. On the unbuttered side, spread a generous layer of the jalapeño cream cheese mixture. Then layer with cooked bacon strips and shredded mild cheddar cheese. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, pressing slightly and flipping carefully, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted inside.
Notes
- Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation from the oils.
- For extra heat, include some of the jalapeño seeds when chopping.
- Cook the bacon ahead of time to save preparation time.
- If you don’t have Texas toast, thick sliced sandwich bread works well as a substitute.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy texture best.
