Pepper Jack & Tomato Grilled Cheese (Printable Version)

Spicy melty sandwich with pepper jack cheese, fresh tomato, and jalapeño bread. A quick, satisfying lunch ready in 13 minutes.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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 Steps:

01 - Lay out bread slices on a clean work surface. 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.
03 - Top each stack with remaining bread slices, buttered side up, to form two sandwiches.
04 - Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat until hot.
05 - Place sandwiches in skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
06 - Remove from skillet and allow to cool for 1 minute. Slice in half diagonally and serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The jalapeño bread adds a subtle heat that perfectly balances the creamy pepper jack
  • Fresh tomato slices bring brightness that cuts through all that rich melted cheese
  • This comes together in under 15 minutes but tastes like something from a specialty cafe
02 -
  • Medium heat is crucial because high heat burns the bread before the cheese has time to melt properly
  • Letting the sandwich rest for that one minute after cooking prevents the cheese from immediately gushing out when you cut it
03 -
  • Mayonnaise can replace butter for grilling if you want an even crispier exterior and slightly tangier flavor
  • Use a serrated knife to slice through the tomatoes without squishing them
Go Back