The Magical Ingredients for a Wholesome Life From the Heart of my Home: Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese

This jalapeno popper is not your average grilled cheese but this is bold in flavor. The smoky, spicy, and tangy jalapeno gives the perfect heat balanced with cheddar and cream cheese. Extra jalapeno flavor from jalapeno cheddar or pepper jack elevates the flavor.

This grilled cheese uses tons of jalapenos and boasts its flavor. Not just in one way but in three different ways. The smoky jalapenos add to the mild hint of smoky flavor which is phenomenal in flavors. The fresh jalapenos give the crunchy bite with a heat kick. Finally, the pickled jalapenos with a tang of vinegar explode with flavors.

Did I say that this grilled cheese is so easy to make? Though it is called a jalapeno popper grilled cheese, it doesn’t use jalapeno poppers as such inside. This recipe uses the filling used for making jalapenos and tons of fresh, smoked, and pickled jalapenos. This makes it stand out from any other grilled cheese.

Roasting jalapenos is not too hard. Roast the on your stove top until you get them charred and this can be done in a few minutes. Cover and set aside, peel, chop, and use it in this recipe. Finely chop the pickled jalapenos and fresh jalapenos too. In this way, there is tons of flavor explosion in every bite. I prefer this way.

To make this grilled cheese the following are required:

Bread - 6 to 8 slices. I love using sourdough to compensate for the jalapeno flavors. Any bread of your choice can be used.

Jalapenos - Fresh jalapenos give a burst of flavor. Roast a couple of these for the smoky jalapenos.

Pickled jalapenos - store-bought or homemade jalapenos can be used. Mild or spicy jalapenos can be used according to heat tolerance.

Cream cheese - Full-fat cream cheese is used in this recipe. Reduced-fat cream cheese can also be used.

Shredded cheese - Cheddar and a mix of cheddar and Jack can be used.

Sliced cheese - cheddar or pepperjack can be used.

Chives and cilantro - Add to the flavor.

Garlic - Fresh minced garlic adds immense flavor. Garlic powder can also be used.

Salt and pepper - Adds flavor

This makes about 3-4 grilled cheeses based on the bread used. If sourdough rounds are sliced, the bread slice is large and makes 3 or 4 depending on the size of the bread. Generally, with normal-sized bread, this would make 4 grilled cheese.

Jolene is hosting an event in our #FestiveFoodies group to celebrate #NationalGrilledCheeseDay, which is today, April 12. This family favorite is my share for the event. Check at the end of the ost for scrumptious grilled cheese recipes. Thanks, Jolene for hosting.

A simple grilled cheese with this tomato soup is an all-time favorite. This can make the day the best day for us. Sometimes when I crave mint cilantro chutney and grilled cheese, we have this Chutney Grilled Cheese, which satisfies the cravings for both. If you love spicy versions, try this Hatch Chili Potato Grilled Cheese. You won’t be disappointed. Italian Style Grilled Cheese With Spinach is yet another family favorite like this jalapeno one. Wait! Dessert grilled cheese is fun and this Pound Cake Strawberry Grilled Cheese would prove that. Sometimes I make Paneer Burji Naan Grilled Cheese either with bread or naan, whichever I have on hand with the same paneer burji filling and kids love that meal.

Ingredients

Makes 3-4

Bread - 6 to 8 slices

Cream cheese - 6 tbsp

Garlic - 1 tsp, finely minced

Chives - 1 tbsp, chopped

Cilantro - 2-3 tbsp, finely chopped

Shredded cheese - 1 cup

Sliced cheese - 6 slices or more

Butter - 2 tbsp

Salt - ½ tsp

Pepper - 1/4 tsp

Pickled jalapenos - 3 tbsp, chopped

Fresh jalapenos - 3-4 tbsp, chopped

Fresh jalapenos - 2 to 3, to roast on flame.

Method

Roast 2-3 jalapenos over the flame until char marks are seen. Cover and set aside for 5 minutes. Peel and chop them. Set aside.

Add the cream cheese, shredded cheese, jalapenos, chives, cilantro, salt, pepper, and mix.

Heat a cast iron pan over medium flame. Spread butter on a side of bread and place the buttered side facing down. Spread about 3 to 3.5 tbsp of jalapeno filling on two slices of bread or to one side. (personal preference).