April is National Grilled Cheese Sandwich month and that was all the excuse that I needed to try out some new grilled cheese sandwich recipes! Not too long ago, while I was devouring a batch of the ever so addictive jalapeno popper dip , I was thinking about other ways to enjoy that amazing flavour combination and the idea that stuck was the one for a jalapeno popper grilled cheese sandwich. As soon as I had that thought I knew that I would have to try it and this was the perfect time!
The basic idea was to incorporate the flavours and textures of jalapeno poppers in a grilled cheese sandwich and the first step was the jalapeno peppers themselves. I really could not see biting into a perfectly grilled sandwich with all of the melted gooey cheese and hitting hard raw jalapeno peppers and although pickled jalapeno peppers would likely have done the trick I decided to take the extra step and I roasted the peppers first. In addition to softening the peppers up, roasting them would add a nice hint of smokiness. Next up was the jalapeno poppers filling and I spread some cream cheese on one slice of bread and then I stuffed in as much jack and cheddar cheese as I could. One of the things that I like about jalapeno poppers is the crunchy bread crumb coating and although the buttered bread would get nice and crispy when fried, I was looking for something a little more. My first thought was to just add some panko bread crumbs to the inside of the sandwich but I did not think that they would still be very crispy by the time that I got to eating the sandwich. This one stumped my for a while but then inspiration struck, I could use crumbled tortilla chips!
This jalapeño popper grilled cheese sandwich turned out even better than expected! The buttery bread was perfectly crispy and it held in a torrent of melted cheese, the spicy jalapeño peppers and the crunchy tortilla chips! The cream cheese in these sandwiches was definitely a winner making the sandwich one of the creamiest and cheesiest grilled cheese sandwiches ever! All of that extra gooey melted cheese helped to temper the spicy heat of the jalapeño peppers. I served the jalapeno popper grilled cheese sandwich along with the remaining tortillas chips and some cool and creamy guacamole .
Don’t have time to roast some fresh jalapenos? Pickle jalapeno work as well!
Bacon makes a fabulous addition!
Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A jalapeno popper inspired grilled cheese sandwich with roasted jalapeno peppers, cream cheese, jack and cheddar cheese and crumbled tortilla chips for a bit of crunch.
ingredients
- 1 jalapeno pepper, cut in half lengthwise and seeded
- 1 tablespoon salted butter, room temperature
- 2 slices sourdough bread (gluten-free for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (or 1 slice), room temperature
- 1/4 cup monterey jack cheese, shredded (or 1 slice), room temperature
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tortilla chips, crumbled (optional)
directions
- Place the peppers on a baking sheet with the cut side facing down, place on the top shelf in the oven and broil until the outer layer of the skin has blackened, about 8-14 minutes.
- Place the peppers in a zip-lock bag or other sealable container, seal, and let them cool until you can handle them, about 20 minutes, before pinch off the blackened skins.
- Butter the outside of each slice of bread and spread the cream cheese on the inside. Sprinkle half of the cheese on the cream cheese of one slice of bread, top with the jalapenos, bacon, crumbled tortilla chips, the remaining cheese and finally the other slice of bread.
- Grill in a pan, preheated over medium heat, until golden brown on both sides and the cheese has melted, about 2-4 minutes per side.
Jalapeno Poppers
Jalapeno Popper Dip
Jalapeño Popper Quiche
Jalapeno Popper Pizza
Bacon Guacamole Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Popper Burgers
More Amazing Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Jalapeno Popper Dressing
Southwestern Grilled Chicken Jalapeno Popper Salad
Jalapeno Popper Corn Fritters
Jalapeno Popper Chicken Soup
Jalapeno Popper Deviled Eggs
Jalapeno Popper Potato Gratin
Jalapeno Popper Chorizo Cheesecake
Jalapeno and Cheddar Corn Pancakes with Bacon (aka Jalapeno Popper Pancakes)
Jalapeno Popper Skillet Chicken
Crispy Fried Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Jalapeno Popper Cornbread Muffins
This is a great "deconstruction" of the jalepeno popper! The idea is pure genius – I can't stop drooling :).
I am speechless…that looks incredible! I don't know how you come up with these genius ideas but I'm sure glad you do!
Great!! Another one of your grilled cheese sandwiches to try!! This one looks awesome!
Keep them coming!!
You, my friend, are a food genius! Spectacular!
You're such a genius =) I cannot wait to make this!
xoXOxo
Jenn @ Peas & Crayons
My pregnancy craving dreams have just come true!!
I just told my husband about this sandwich and he immediately made it. He would like you to know that this is by far the best sandwich that he has ever had…the only problem is that he only made one! He says that he will be having one for breakfast!
I love all of your grilled cheese sandwich variations! Keep 'em coming! 🙂
Kevin, this is genius… what a concept. I will absolutely be celebrating national grilled cheese month with this recipe. I love anything with jalapenos… obviously with my blog being ahealthyjalapeno.com.
Thanks for the great idea 🙂
Wow! This looks soooo friggin' good!
Wow! This looks soooo friggin' good!
It's official: You are the King of Sandwiches.
It's amazing how you could make everything looks delicious!
My mouth is watering. I am so going to make these.
A lipsmackingly good sandwich!
Cheers,
Rosa
O wow. This sounds tasty I too love jalapeno poppers. What a fabo idea. Def can't wait to try this out. Thanks.
I'll take any excuse to eat grilled cheese! I love that this takes a traditionally cheesy recipe and puts it in a sandwich. Delicious!
This looks absolutely fantastic and that is all I have to say about that!!!!
BRILLIANT! Seriously, this is just spectacular. I'm in love with this sandwich 🙂
You're making me hungry…
http://ninety2wo.blogspot.com
Fantastic idea, Kevin (as usual!). These sandwiches are going on the menu for next week, and I'm sure both my husband and I will love them.
What a clever adaptation!
You're killing me! I loveeeee Spicy Grilled Cheeses! I want to try this!
What a combo. This looks delightful and makes me wish I could jump through the screen and take a bit. Yum.
This looks so delicious! Can't wait to try!!!
Just found your wonderful blog! New follower!
– Jessica
http://cajunlicious.blogspot.com
(All Things Cajun)
wow, this IS brilliant – love pretty much all things spicy, so can't wait to try this out!
-twentyeight
http://www.threetwentyeight.com
I would never in a million years think to do this. Great idea!
So…yeah..I am definitely making this for dinner tonight..
I agree. Over the rockies sandwich
This is inspired, Kevin! Love it!
This looks so good I had to tell the whole office about it.
mmm, this looks amazing!
I made a vegan version of a jalapeno popper sandwich for Vegan MoFo last year – everyone loved it 🙂
This sandwich truly is genius! Must make this soon!!!
I did something similar. I'm really surprised that hasn't been more prevalent, it's completely obvious! I didn't think to filet the jalapenos, but I might use that approach next time. Also it's key to get flavorful jalapenos…if there isn't any spice in the sandwich it falls flat.
http://baconandbeer.com/bacon/Bacon_Wrapped_Jalapeno_Popper_Grilled_Cheese
Surfed on over from a pic posted on Pinterest….this looks A-mazing!
Hi! I left an award for you at my blog, if you kindly want to pick it up 🙂 Magali
http://magalimarch.blogspot.com
This is making my mouth water.. photos are amazing! http://www.frenchtoastandwine.com
That is one tempting grilled cheese sandwich. Very inventive recipe, Kevin.
Oh my lands, I need this in my life! Thanks so much for sharing 🙂
These look mighty spicy!! But also mighty delicious!!
Only one month for grilled cheese? I'll take a year. Yes, thoroughly agree on roasting the jalapenos first – now you have me thinking how many appetizers can I turn into sandwiches? Subway franchises look out! This is grand.
why didnt i think of that?!
Mmmm, I could so go for this sandwich! A wonderful weekend treat I'm thinking!! xxxxx
This sandwich looks amazing! It gives me the idea to try my favorite cheese snack – the fried mozzarella stick – in sammie form. Thanks for the inspiration!
Can we say yumm! What grill cheese can get better than that!
Kitchen Comments
I had a craving jalapeno poppers the other night and had just that for dinner! Would have loved this sandwich even more I think! Looks incredible.
This sounds heavenly. I can't believe I never thought of adding jalapeños to a grilled cheese. I need to make this for my boyfriend one day, he'll think I'm the best girlfriend ever.
I think my husband would love this. Anything with jalapenos is a winner at my house. Great idea!
Mmmmmm, this looked so yummy I went right into the kitchen and made it for lunch. I added some cilantro and green onions as well cause I can never get enough of those…thanks for the great recipe!
Kitchen Comments
Can a sandwich get any better? Brilliant Kevin… like ususal.
Whoa. This jalapeño popper sandwich looks AMAZING!! I wish I could have one or 50 right now haha. Bookmarked!
I want this…now!
Yum! Heading into the kitchen right now to make this…. Thanks for sharing!
~Jacquelyn
That looks delicious!! I think I am about to head to the grocery store so I can go buy the ingredients!!
I made this tonight to celebrate National Grilled Cheese Day. Holy shit! You, sir, are a genius!
Oh man that looks fantastic. I love the spicy kick of jalapeno + melted cheese.
This sandwich does look wonderful…I'm confused about you you incorporate the tortilla chips, though.
Creative! Nice! I'm going to give this a try…
Wow, Kevin, these look like they are absolutely delicious. I never would have thought to put chilies into a grilled cheese sandwich.
Its gotta be good with cheese and jalapenos.
http://www.blairlockout.com
Looks scrumptious! But you're obviously not counting calories…LOL!
Wow, this was a delicious sandwich. However, for any possible jalapeno/hot pepper newbies out there, you might want to edit your post with a warning about how the capsaicin burns your skin like hellfire if you don't wear gloves. Not that I just learned this valuable piece of information from this recipe and am repeatedly soaking my fingers in ice water or anything… 😀
These sound delish!! We're gluten-free though, so I think I'll try it with homemade gf bread.
Anything with jalapeno's are an instant fave of mine. I made one a while ago but added bacon to it to give it a much more intense flavor and it still turned out great. Thanks for this share.
Oh my gosh, just genius. YUM!!
Wow, big shot!
Kevin, you have created the ultimate, honestly is the best grilled cheese I've ever eaten … it's indecent lol! Crispy, creamy, spicy, sweet, everything is there in the same bite!
Thank you Kevin!
I saw this, and the first thought in my mind was "Why haven't I thought of this before?!" Amazing idea.
And I thought I was the only one that liked chips crumbled in my sandwich. Brilliant idea for a grilled cheese sandwich and my faves with a link to your blog are now featured on The Tastiest Vegetarian Sandwich Fillings…I could not help but share your tasty ideas!
Oh my I love those poppers and I love Jalapenos ! I am so trying this sandwich!!
Would you mind me sharing your yummy recipe on my blog with a link back to you?
bee blessed
mary
This recipe sounded so simple for a new cook like me…but I followed the instructions and put my broiled jalapeños in a zip lock bag…which melted the plastic onto the pepper. FAIL!! After my second attempt I decided to put them in a paper bag instead. It's a decent sandwich, but next time I'll add more peppers for a way spicier sandwich.
PLEASE DON'T RECOMMEND USING A ZIP LOCK BAG!!!
Thanks! 😀
Doesn't eat plastic: I have been using zip lock bags for years for roasted red peppers, poblanos and jalapenos and I have never had one melt on me. Using a reusable container would be cheaper in the long run anyways!
Kevin, this sandwich is inspired! Thanks for sharing 🙂
This looks like such a flavorful take on a grilled cheese! Wow – can't wiat to try!
OMG this looks amazing!!! Can't wait to try!!!!
Found the pin in Pinterest last week and I haven't stopped thinking about this sandwich! I got jalapenos at the store yesterday so I can make these sandwiches tonight. Can't wait to try them. Thanks for sharing!
making these tonight! awesome idea and recipe.
With all the variations of toppings and dips, sandwiches can really entice people and I do hope that we choose what we eat wisely and stay away from junk food as much as possible.
Looks so good…I have some poblano peppers I think I'll try first…working myself up to the jalapeno!
This looks and sounds amazing!
I love this recipe. I made a few modifications to it (different cheeses), but linked by to you on my blog.
Thanks for sharing the awesome recipes.
You're a genius. I made this and blogged it. Absolutely amazing.
http://unhipsquirrel.blogspot.com/2011/09/jalapeno-popper-inspired-grilled-cheese.html
Everything you make looks SUPER delicious. You have a talent.
Love your blog! Found you on pinterest and am passing along your fresh ideas there. Thank you so much for sharing.
I love you.
This looks absolutely wonderful. I will be making this! Thank you for sharing!
BEST sandwich ever!!! Thank you!
OMG! I found you on Stumble Upon!
These look amazing! I am going to make them NOW!!!
Now following your yummy blog 😉
http://www.youngcouponmama.com
Another recipe to add to my jalapeno collection:) I love spicy food:)
oo this looks pretty god dam amazing!
I made boring old grilled cheeses for the family last night. Next time, I'll be making the kids the plain stuff and we'll be eating the jalapeno popper version!
I am in the middle of my pregnancy and have been craving anything spicy – especially jalepenos. And just about every other recipe on your site that is Texmex or Mexican. I especially love the idea of mexican eggs and salsa verde lasagna. Thanks for putting all the time into sharing your amazing discoveries.
Hi Kevin:
Here's a new one to try!
I was just over on "Life on Food"
She likes Peanut Butter and Jam grilled Cheese sandwiches.
I thought of you right away
Charlie
CharlesR: The PB&J grilled cheese would definitely work! Heading over to check it out.
"Assemble sandwich"? Can you elaborate? Maybe that's a dumb question but I'd like to know all of your steps so I can make this amazing looking sandwich!
Anonymous: I cleaned up the recipe text: Butter the outside of each slice of bread and spread the cream cheese on the inside. Sprinkle half of the cheese on the cream cheese of one slice of bread, top with the jalapenos, crumbled tortilla chips, the remaining cheese and finally the other slice of bread.
Made these last night and they were FANTASTIC! Loved the addition of the chips- brilliant! I posted it on my blog, crediting you for the original recipe. Thanks for sharing this one!
http://www.lindsaysmenu.blogspot.com
I must say that was one tasty sandwich, yummy! I found your site via a picture posted on Pinterest. Thank you!
This seriously might be the most amazing sandwich I've ever seen!!!
I made these last night. Let me tell you, they are NOT health food. But people are going to think I'm a hero when I make them on Sunday for the Superbowl. Thanks for sharing!
Very clever idea! I like how to reinvent your favorite foods!
nice idea~~and the way u present superb love it! and follow you 🙂
The crushed corn chips is a genius idea! I might make one of these tomorrow… Thank you!!
I just made this and it was simple and better than I ever expected! Delicious!
This looks utterly delicious. I love anything grilled cheese. Melted cheese tastes good with everything, but this has just kicked it up a notch. I want it right now
My attempts at home-cooking in my apartment are usually unsuccessful, but this turned out AMAZING. I'm so stuffed! To make it a little easier though, I used pre-sliced jalapenos and cooked them in the oven for a short while (not enough to brown them, though). Thank you so much for this wonderful concoction!
That looks so good I think I may start drooling any moment.
OMG, only the bestest ever grilled cheese sandwich!
I made these for the second time tonight, only this time I skipped the chips and added fresh cooked bacon and used cheddar pepper jack cheese from Kraft and they were FANTASTIC!!!
How about adding crisped bacon for the crunch? mmm… My husband thanks you for this recipe!
mamabear23 & Theresa: Bacon would be killer! Glad you enjoyed them!
Made this tonight for Dinner-YUMMO!!!!
It past 2am over here and my mouth is watering! I write my grocery list right now and look forward to cook this delicious grilled cheese later on!
Thank you!!!
Fantastic! I made this one for lunch today and it was absolutely perfect. This is pure genius between two slices of bread. Poppers are an appetizer I crave, and now I crave more of this sandwich.
OMG, this is sooo delicious! The first time that I made this jalapeno popper sandwich, I used the shreaded cheese but it didnt really care for it because I felt that it needed that creamy cheese flavor. So this second time I used the same ingredients but I used half shreaded cheese and half of the american cheese and my goodnes.. This is the best grilled cheeses sandwich that I've ever made! Thank you so much for this wonderful recipe!
I thought this would be good, but I was wrong. It was FABULOUS! Thank you for this recipe!
Delicious.
I hate to say this, but my sandwiches did not wow me. They had no jalapenos at Fortinos the day I made this,so I used Serranos instead…maybe they didn't have the immpact of the jalapeno? I found they were much improved when I put a big spoonful of hot salsa on them. It was like the ketchup to the regular grilled cheese! Might try them again next time I buy sme jalapenos.
My husband (the picky eater) took one look at the photo of this sandwich and he said, "I'll eat that!" Looking forward to trying this recipe.
I NEVER post comments online but I have to for this one… it was AWESOME! I didn't add the chips but I might next time. I agree that a little crumbled bacon might send it over the top. A++++
I skipped the chips and added 2 slices of bacon and tomato slices. It was delicious!
Jalapeno popper grilled cheese sandwich. Sound seems so perfecta and yummy………
Cheese cube
I made these for dinner with soup tonight. Yum! Our jalapenos were wayyyy too hot though, so I would cut them up smaller next time. Very good recipe!
I can't wait to try these. I love jalepeno poppers so I'm sure I'll love them.
i love all these wish to cook them myself
I'm going to make these with gluten free bread. I haven't had a jalepeno popper since going GF. And I'm so ready for one. Thanks for making it possible! I'm sure this is way better than deep fried anyway! Woo Hoo! I can't wait!
Is it possible to roast the jalapenos several hours beforehand and keep them in the fridge?
Anonymous: Yes you could definitely roast the jalapenos ahead of time. I would bring them back up to room temperature before using them.
Just made this for lunch- amazing! I make my grilled cheese in the oven though, and maybe that's why my tortilla chips lost their crunch. It was still SO good though; I'll just leave them out next time. I used picked jalapeno slices and need to add more next time because I loved biting into one of them! You should open up a grilled cheese restaurant! Love your recipes- just made your carnitas for the second time yesterday. Yum.
Oh. My. God.
This was the most amazing grilled cheese sandwich ever. End of story.
If you love jalapeno poppers you can't not love this sandwich.
You did it 100% – roasting the peppers, genius. And I was skeptical about the tortilla chips but NO KIDDING it's the perfect crunch to mimic the breading.
I could die happy right now.
i like this
Does anyone else thing that this would go Great under a press?
Jalapeno popper grilled cheese sandwich is scrumptious. Nice post
Great recipe and beautiful blog! Just made this for dinner for me and my sweetie. I served it with a small side salad and a bowl of creamy tomato basil bisque (from Costco). We both loved it! The roasted jalapeno and cream cheese gave it that "Popper" flavor. Make this right now! It is amazing!
One of the things that I like about jalapeno poppers is the crunchy bread crumb coating and although the buttered bread would get nice and crispy when fried
Steph: Yes, the bread gets nice and crispy!
Hello, I love to eat and cook, there is coffee among the drinks, thank you for the nice blog article.
Jalapeno popper grilled cheese sandwich is very different. Thanks for this nice post.