Pepper Jack Tomato Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Golden crispy sandwich with melted pepper jack cheese and fresh tomatoes on jalapeño-studded bread.

# 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

# Directions:

01 - Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface. Generously butter one side of each slice, ensuring complete coverage to promote even browning.
02 - Place two slices, buttered side down, on a cutting board. Layer each with 2 slices of 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, to form two complete sandwiches.
03 - Preheat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. The surface should be hot enough to sizzle a drop of water on contact.
04 - Carefully transfer sandwiches to the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure good contact. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is completely melted.
05 - Remove sandwiches from the skillet and let rest for 1 minute to allow the cheese to set slightly. Slice each sandwich diagonally in half and serve immediately while hot and melty.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Its the perfect balance of heat from the pepper jack and freshness from ripe tomato slices
  • The jalapeño bread adds this incredible crunch and subtle spice that regular bread just cant match
  • Takes literally 15 minutes from start to finish but tastes like something from a specialty sandwich shop
02 -
  • Medium heat is non-negotiable, too high and you'll burn the bread before the cheese melts, too low and you'll end up with soggy tomatoes
  • Don't overload with tomato slices or the juices will make the bread fall apart, keep it to a single layer
03 -
  • Butter the corners of your bread extra thoroughly, they're the first to burn
  • If your tomatoes are super juicy, pat them between paper towels before layering
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