Pepper Jack & Tomato Grilled Cheese (Print)

Spicy and melty sandwich with pepper jack cheese and fresh tomato on jalapeño-studded bread for an extra kick.

# What you'll need:

→ Bread

01 - 4 slices jalapeño-studded bread

→ Cheese

02 - 4 slices pepper jack cheese

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 medium ripe tomato, thinly sliced

→ Spreads & Fats

04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Seasonings

05 - Pinch of salt
06 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

# How To Make It:

01 - Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface. Butter one side of each slice evenly.
02 - Place two slices buttered side down on a plate. Layer each with 2 slices of pepper jack cheese and half the tomato slices. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Top with remaining bread slices buttered side up.
03 - Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat until evenly warmed.
04 - Place sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
05 - Remove from skillet and let cool for 1 minute. Slice in half diagonally and serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It takes less than fifteen minutes from counter to plate, perfect for when hunger hits hard and fast.
  • The spice level sneaks up gently, warming without overwhelming, so even cautious eaters come back for more.
  • Every bite delivers that perfect contrast of crispy, buttery edges and gooey, melted center.
  • It works for a solo lunch or doubles easily when a friend stops by unexpectedly.
02 -
  • Medium heat is non-negotiable, I scorched my first attempt by cranking it too high and ended up with burnt bread and cold cheese.
  • Softened butter spreads without tearing the bread, if yours is fridge-cold, microwave it for five seconds and save yourself the frustration.
  • Don't overload the tomato slices or the sandwich gets slippery and falls apart when you flip it.
03 -
  • Press the sandwich gently with the spatula while it cooks to help the cheese melt faster and create better contact with the skillet for even browning.
  • If your skillet isn't nonstick, add a tiny bit of butter to the pan itself before placing the sandwiches, it prevents sticking and adds extra crispness.
  • Let the sandwich rest for a full minute before slicing, this keeps the cheese from spilling out and makes for a cleaner cut.
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