Introduction

Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese is a spicy twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Creamy, cheesy, and with a hint of jalapeno heat, it’s an irresistible comfort food perfect for a quick lunch or snack.

Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

4 slices sandwich bread
2 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
3 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
1 tablespoon sour cream
½ cup shredded cheddar
¼ cup diced jalapenos (see notes)
½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Spread the outside of each slice of bread evenly with the room temperature butter.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, diced jalapenos, and garlic powder. Stir well until fully mixed.
Step 3: Place two slices of bread butter side down and evenly spread the cheese and jalapeno mixture over them. Top with the remaining slices of bread, butter side up.
Step 4: Place the sandwiches in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 4 minutes. Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and toasted.
Step 5: Remove the sandwiches and let them rest for 1 minute before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For less heat, remove seeds from the jalapenos or use mild canned jalapenos instead.
Try adding crispy bacon bits to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
If you don’t have an air fryer, grill the sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat until golden and the cheese is melted.

Storage

Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

How spicy is this grilled cheese?

The heat level depends on the jalapenos used. Removing the seeds reduces spiciness. You can also adjust the amount of jalapenos to suit your taste.

Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese Recipe

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4.8 from 533 reviews

A delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese combines creamy cream cheese, tangy sour cream, spicy jalapenos, and melted cheddar, all toasted to golden perfection in an air fryer for a quick and flavorful meal.

Author: Lila
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Category: Sandwich
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Bread and Butter

4 slices sandwich bread
2 tablespoons butter, room temperature

Cheese Mixture

3 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 tablespoon sour cream
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup diced jalapenos (fresh or pickled)
½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Prepare the Bread: Spread the outside of each slice of bread evenly with room temperature butter to ensure a crispy golden crust when cooked.
Mix the Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, diced jalapenos, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Place two slices of buttered bread on a clean surface with the buttered side down. Evenly spread the cheese mixture on top of each slice, then cover with the remaining bread slices, butter side up.
Air Fry the Sandwiches: Place the assembled sandwiches in the air fryer basket. Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 4 minutes. Carefully flip the sandwiches and continue air frying for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Let the sandwiches rest for 1 minute after cooking to allow the filling to set slightly, then serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

You can adjust the amount of jalapenos to control the spice level or substitute with milder peppers if preferred.
For extra crispiness, use day-old bread or slightly thicker slices.
If you do not have an air fryer, these sandwiches can also be cooked on a stovetop skillet over medium heat, flipping carefully until both sides are toasted and cheese is melted.
Use fresh cream cheese and allow it to soften at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.

Keywords: Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese, Air Fryer Grilled Cheese, Spicy Grilled Cheese, Jalapeno Recipes, Quick Snacks