If you love the spicy, creamy flavors of jalapeno poppers and the gooey, crispy goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich, this Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese is the perfect combination!
Jump to RecipePacked with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and a zesty jalapeno-infused cream cheese spread, this sandwich takes comfort food to the next level. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, game day snack, or late-night indulgence, this easy recipe delivers bold flavors in every bite!
PRO TIPS for the Best Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: This helps create a smooth, even spread that melts easily.
- Control the Spice Level: Keep or remove the jalapeno seeds based on your heat preference.
- Choose Good-Quality Bread: A sturdy bread like sourdough or Texas toast helps hold up the fillings.
- Use Crispy Bacon: Cook your bacon until crisp before adding it to the sandwich for the best texture.
- Cook on Medium Heat: Prevent burning by cooking on medium heat, allowing the cheese to fully melt while the bread gets golden brown.
Personalizing the Recipe
- Add Extra Heat: Use pickled jalapenos, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese.
- Make it Smoky: Swap bacon for smoked turkey or ham.
- Go Gourmet: Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or havarti.
- Add Crunch: Include crushed tortilla chips inside for extra texture.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy, tangy base for the filling.
- Jalapenos, chopped (seeds and membranes removed) – Adds just the right amount of spice and flavor.
- Garlic powder – Enhances the taste with a mild, savory note.
- Slices bread – Holds the sandwich together and crisps up beautifully.
- Slices cheddar cheese – Ensures a gooey, cheesy center.
- Slices bacon, fully cooked – Provides smoky, crispy goodness.
- Butter, melted – Helps create that golden, crispy crust.
Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese Recipe
Prepare the Filling: In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped jalapenos, and garlic powder. Mix well until smooth.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Lay two slices of bread on a clean surface and top each with two slices of cheddar cheese.
Spread the Filling: Evenly divide the jalapeno cream cheese mixture between the sandwiches and spread it from edge to edge.
Add the Bacon: Cut each bacon slice in half and layer over the jalapeno filling.
Top with More Cheese & Bread: Add two more slices of cheddar cheese on top, followed by the remaining bread slices to form two sandwiches.
Butter the Bread: Brush the outside of each sandwich with melted butter to ensure a crispy, golden crust.
Cook to Perfection: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve Hot: Remove from heat, slice in half, and serve immediately!
Different Methods of Cooking
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F, air fry for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Oven: Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Panini Press: Grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
Different Methods of Serving
- With a Side of Soup: Pair with tomato soup or roasted red pepper soup.
- Cut Into Strips: Serve as dippable grilled cheese sticks.
- With a Side Salad: Balance out the richness with a fresh green salad.
- As a Breakfast Sandwich: Add a fried egg for a morning twist.
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Wrap in foil and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet or air fryer for a crispy finish.
- Freeze: Freeze unbuttered sandwiches, then cook fresh when needed.
Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese FAQs
Can I make this without bacon? Absolutely! You can substitute it with turkey bacon or skip it altogether.
What’s the best bread to use? Sourdough, Texas toast, or brioche works best for a sturdy and crispy sandwich.
How do I make it extra spicy? Leave the jalapeno seeds in, use spicy cheese, or add hot sauce.
Can I use pickled jalapenos? Yes! Pickled jalapenos add extra tanginess and are a great alternative.
Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 tablespoons jalapenos chopped (seeds and membranes removed)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 slices bread
- 8 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon fully cooked
- 4 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
- Mix softened cream cheese, chopped jalapenos, and garlic powder.
- Place two slices of bread on a flat surface and top each with two slices of cheddar cheese.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top of the cheese.
- Place cooked bacon over the jalapeno filling.
- Add two more slices of cheddar cheese and top with another slice of bread.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with melted butter.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook each sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and melted.
- Slice and serve hot.
The Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy, cheesy twist. Whether you like it extra spicy, loaded with extra cheese, or paired with your favorite soup, this sandwich is a deliciously indulgent treat. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of crunch, heat, and melty goodness!
About the Author
I am Seun, and I love to share my first-hand experience using multiple air fryers. Stick around for yummy delicacies made from the air fryer and many amazing tips on using your newfound Kitchen appliance – the air fryer!
