Roasted Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese

This Roasted Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese combines the creamy, spicy flavors of jalapeño poppers with the comforting gooeyness of a grilled cheese sandwich. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, this sandwich is sure to impress with its bold flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium jalapeños, stems removed, sliced in half, and seeded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
• 6 strips bacon, cooked, divided
• 4 slices Texas toast (or your bread of choice)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roast Jalapeños: Brush the sliced jalapeños with olive oil on all sides and place them on the prepared baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for about 15 minutes, or until the skin of the jalapeños begins to char slightly. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese, garlic salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix until creamy.
4. Chop Jalapeños: Once the jalapeños are cool enough to handle, roughly chop them and fold them into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Assemble Sandwiches: Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the opposite side of two slices, spread half of the cream cheese and jalapeño mixture. Top with 3 strips of bacon and ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Place another slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out. Repeat for the second sandwich.
6. Cook Sandwiches: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the assembled sandwiches to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Press down gently with a spatula for even cooking.
7. Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice in half, and serve immediately while hot and melty.

Serving:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Servings: 2 sandwiches

Variations:

• Spicier Option: For more heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
• Cheese Swap: Try using pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Additions: Consider adding slices of avocado or tomato for extra flavor and texture.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to retain crispness.
• Freezing: It’s best to freeze the sandwiches ungrilled, then cook them straight from the freezer for a quick meal.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different, and the pickled jalapeños will add a tangy taste to the sandwich.

Q: What other bread can I use?
A: Sourdough, ciabatta, or any hearty bread that can hold up to grilling and the filling would work well.

Q: Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
A: Yes, simply omit the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon substitute.

Q: What can I serve with this sandwich?
A: Serve with a side of tomato soup, a simple salad, or some crispy fries for a complete meal.

This Roasted Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese is a deliciously indulgent sandwich that combines all the best flavors of a classic jalapeño popper with the comfort of grilled cheese. Perfect for those who love a little spice in their meals!

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