Roasted Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese Recipe
This Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese combines spicy roasted jalapeños, crispy bacon, and a creamy cheese filling, all melted between buttery toasted bread. The roasted peppers add a smoky depth, while the blend of cheddar and cream cheese creates a rich, gooey texture. Crisp bacon adds the perfect savory crunch. It’s a bold and indulgent twist on classic grilled cheese!
Ingredients
- 4 medium jalapeños stemmed, halved, and seeded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese divided
- 6 strips bacon cooked and divided
- 4 slices Texas toast or preferred bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush the halved, seeded jalapenos with olive oil and arrange them cut-side down. Roast for about 15 minutes or until the skins just start to char. The smoky aroma is irresistible! Once roasted, set them aside to cool.
- While the jalapenos are cooling, grab a mixing bowl and combine the cream cheese, garlic salt, black pepper, and onion powder until smooth and creamy. Once the jalapenos are cool enough to handle, roughly chop them and fold them into the cream cheese mixture. The heat and smokiness of the peppers elevate this spread to greatness!
- Take a slice of Texas toast and butter one side generously. Flip it over and spread half of the cream cheese mixture on the unbuttered side. Top it with three strips of crispy bacon and a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Add the second slice of bread, butter-side up, to complete your sandwich. Repeat the process for the second sandwich.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches on the skillet and cook for 3–5 minutes on each side, pressing slightly with a spatula for even toasting. The bread should be golden brown and the cheese inside melted to gooey perfection. Serve immediately and enjoy every delicious bite!
Notes
- Roast for Maximum Flavor: Roasting jalapeños enhances their smoky taste and reduces heat for a balanced kick.
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese blends smoothly for a creamy, even spread.
- Crisp Bacon Ahead of Time: Baking bacon ensures even crispiness and minimizes stovetop mess.