Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese

Take a classic sandwich you know you like and add a little spice!

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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.

FAQs & Tips

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.

Do I have to use sourdough bread for this sandwich?

The type of bread you use is up to you. If you don’t like sourdough, use another type of thick, sturdy bread that will hold the sandwich together and toast well.

What else can I add to this sandwich?

To add even more flavor to the sandwich, you might consider a little garlic powder or black pepper. A few tortilla chips in the middle of the sandwich can also add a nice crunch.

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.