Pepper Jack & Tomato Grilled Cheese (Printable Version)

Spicy melty sandwich with pepper jack cheese, fresh tomato slices, and jalapeño-studded bread grilled to golden perfection.

# What You 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

# Directions:

01 - Lay out bread slices on a clean surface and butter one side of each slice evenly.
02 - Place two slices buttered side down on a plate. Layer each with 2 slices pepper jack cheese and half the tomato slices. Season tomatoes lightly with salt and pepper if desired. 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 and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is completely melted.
05 - Remove from skillet and let cool for 1 minute. Slice in half diagonally and serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The spicy pepper jack creates this incredible molten lava center that oozes out when you bite into it
  • Fresh tomato slices add a bright juicy contrast that cuts through all that rich cheese
  • Jalapeño bread means every single bite has a little heat, not just the ones with pepper jack
02 -
  • Medium heat might feel too slow but high heat burns the bread before the cheese melts, and burnt bread is a tragedy
  • Pat those tomato slices dry with paper towels before layering, unless you enjoy soggy bread situations
  • Pressing down with the spatula helps the bread make full contact with the pan for even browning
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, the heavy weight helps create the most even, crispy crust
  • Letting the sandwiches rest for that full minute after cooking is essential for clean slices
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