Name: Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 slices brioche bread; 3 slices Cheddar Cheese; ¼ cup Bacon; 1 Jalapeno; 2 tbsp mayonnaise

This recipe is a spicy and savory twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Including bacon and jalapenos, it's perfect for those who enjoy a kick with their comfort food. The crispy bacon and spicy jalapeno perfectly complement the melted cheese, resulting in a sandwich that's bursting with flavor.

Photos of Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno Recipe

All ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in most supermarkets. However, the star ingredient that might not be readily available in your pantry is brioche bread. This French bread is slightly sweet and has a richer texture compared to regular white or wheat bread. It will provide a wonderful contrast to the salty bacon and spicy jalapenos.

Ingredients for Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno

Brioche bread: This bread is made with egg and butter, which gives it a rich and tender crumb. It toasts up nicely and adds a touch of sweetness to the sandwich.

Cheddar cheese: A popular choice for grilled cheese, cheddar melts well and has a sharp flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor that pairs well with the cheddar cheese and jalapeno.

Jalapeno: This adds a nice kick to the sandwich. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for heat.

Mayonnaise: Instead of butter, this recipe uses mayonnaise for grilling the bread. It helps the bread get a nice, crispy golden-brown crust.

One reader, Larisa Matheny says:

This grilled cheese with bacon and jalapeno recipe is a game-changer! The combination of gooey cheddar, crispy bacon, and spicy jalapeno is simply divine. The brioche bread takes it to another level. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a little kick in their grilled cheese.

Larisa Matheny

Essential Techniques for Making Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno

How to grill the sandwich: Place the sandwich in a preheated pan over low heat and grill for 3–5 minutes, flipping once, until the cheese melts and the bread is golden brown.

How to spread mayo on the bread: Use a butter knife or a spoon to evenly spread the mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread.

How to assemble the sandwich: Layer the ingredients in the following order: bread slice with mayo, cheddar cheese, bacon, additional cheddar cheese slices, and jalapeños. Then top with the second slice of bread with mayo.

How To Make Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno

Awaken your tastebuds with the divine combination of savory bacon, spicy jalapeno, and creamy cheddar cheese in this easy grilled cheese recipe.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2slicesbrioche bread
3slicescheddar cheese
¼cupbacon,chopped
1jalapeño,sliced
2tbspmayonnaise

Instructions

Spread mayo on one side of each slice of bread.
Add 1 slice of cheddar cheese to one slice of bread.
Add bacon on top of cheese.
Add additional cheddar cheese slices on top of bacon.
Add jalapeños on top of cheese.
On low heat, add sandwich to a pan and grill mayo side down.
Grill for 3 to 5 minutes or until cheese melts and bread browns.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 892.32kcal
Fat: 66.71g
Saturated Fat: 24.63g
Trans Fat: 1.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.42g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 17.27g
Carbohydrates: 40.63g
Fiber: 2.23g
Sugar: 2.52g
Protein: 31.49g
Cholesterol: 156.39mg
Sodium: 1199.00mg
Calcium: 644.49mg
Potassium: 246.50mg
Iron: 2.72mg
Vitamin A: 281.99µg
Vitamin C: 16.60mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno

To ensure your grilled cheese has a perfect golden-brown crust and the cheese melts evenly, it's important to cook it slowly on low heat. If the heat is too high, the bread will brown too quickly and the cheese won't have time to melt. Also, using mayonnaise instead of butter on the outside of the bread gives a nice tangy flavor and helps to achieve a beautifully browned and crispy crust.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Grilled Cheese Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the bacon, jalapeños, and cheese slices the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This will save time when assembling the grilled cheese the next day.

Use a grater: Instead of slicing the cheese, use a grater to shred it. This will help the cheese melt more evenly and quickly when grilling the sandwich.

Double up: Make extra grilled cheese sandwiches and store them in the fridge for a quick and delicious meal later in the week.

Preheat the pan: Make sure the pan is preheated before adding the sandwich. This will help the bread get crispy faster, saving time during the grilling process.

Multi-task: While the sandwich is grilling, use that time to prepare a simple side salad or a quick soup to complete the meal.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno Recipe

brioche bread - Substitute with sourdough bread: Sourdough bread has a tangy flavor and a chewy texture that can complement the richness of the cheese and bacon, while providing a sturdy base for the sandwich.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with smoked gouda: Smoked gouda offers a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with bacon and jalapeno, adding a unique depth to the grilled cheese.
bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon provides a leaner option with a similar smoky flavor, making it a healthier alternative while still adding a satisfying crunch to the sandwich.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level to jalapenos but offer a slightly fruitier and crisper flavor, adding a refreshing kick to the grilled cheese.
mayonnaise - Substitute with avocado spread: Avocado spread can add a creamy and flavorful element to the sandwich, providing a healthier alternative to mayonnaise while enhancing the overall taste.

Presentation Tips for Serving Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno

Elevate the plating: When presenting the grilled cheese with bacon and jalapeño, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement on the plate. Consider using fresh herbs or microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a swirl of sriracha mayo on the plate. This not only adds a touch of sophistication but also complements the flavors of the grilled cheese.
Utilize complementary side dishes: Pair the grilled cheese with bacon and jalapeño with a side of homemade tomato soup served in a miniature soup tureen. This adds a touch of elegance and provides a delightful contrast to the richness of the grilled cheese.
Emphasize texture contrast: Consider adding a small side salad of arugula and radicchio dressed with a light vinaigrette to provide a textural contrast to the creamy and indulgent grilled cheese.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the placement of each ingredient on the plate, ensuring that the presentation is meticulous and visually captivating. Each element should be thoughtfully arranged to showcase the layers and components of the grilled cheese with bacon and jalapeño.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno

Allow the grilled cheese sandwich to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the bread from becoming soggy and the cheese from becoming greasy.
To store the sandwich in the refrigerator, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwich in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. The sandwich will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze the sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwich in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents. The sandwich will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To reheat a refrigerated sandwich, unwrap it and place it on a baking sheet. Heat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
To reheat a frozen sandwich, unwrap it and place it on a baking sheet. Heat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. Alternatively, you can thaw the sandwich in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
If you prefer a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the sandwich in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Note that the jalapeno may lose some of its crunch and heat after being stored or frozen. If you prefer a fresher taste, you can add fresh jalapeno slices to the sandwich before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno

The best way to reheat a leftover grilled cheese with bacon and jalapeno is to use a skillet or griddle on the stove. Heat the skillet over medium-low heat and place the sandwich in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sandwich on the rack. Toast for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
If you're in a hurry, you can also use a microwave. Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds, or until the cheese is melted. However, keep in mind that the bread may become soggy in the microwave.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the sandwich in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the sandwich in the basket. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated sandwich, try spreading a thin layer of butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread before reheating. This will give the sandwich a rich, golden-brown color and a crispy texture.
To prevent the sandwich from becoming too greasy, you can place a paper towel under the sandwich while reheating to absorb any excess oil from the bacon.
If you find that the jalapenos have lost some of their heat after being refrigerated, you can add a few fresh slices to the sandwich before reheating to give it an extra kick.

Interesting Fact About Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno

Grilled cheese with bacon and jalapeno is a popular comfort food. It is believed that the grilled cheese sandwich originated in the United States in the 1920s when inexpensive sliced bread and American cheese became available. The addition of bacon and jalapeno to the classic grilled cheese adds a delicious twist to the traditional recipe. Bacon provides a savory and smoky flavor, while the jalapeno adds a spicy kick. This combination of flavors creates a satisfying and indulgent sandwich that is perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

Is Making Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno at Home Cost-Effective?

This grilled cheese with bacon and jalapeno recipe offers a moderate cost-effectiveness for a household. The use of common ingredients like bread, cheese, bacon, and jalapeno makes it budget-friendly. However, the cost may vary based on the quality of ingredients. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15. Rating: 8/10.

Is This Grilled Cheese Sandwich Healthy or Unhealthy?

The grilled cheese with bacon and jalapeno recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not the healthiest option. Here's why:

Brioche bread is high in calories, carbs, and fat
Cheddar cheese is high in saturated fat and sodium
Bacon is processed meat, high in saturated fat and sodium
Mayonnaise is high in fat and calories
Jalapenos are the only vegetable, providing some vitamin C and antioxidants

Overall, this sandwich is high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, which can contribute to health issues like obesity, heart disease, and high blood pressure if consumed regularly.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following tweaks:

Swap brioche for whole grain bread to increase fiber and nutrients
Use reduced-fat cheddar or a mix of cheddar and low-fat mozzarella to cut down on saturated fat
Replace bacon with lean turkey bacon or omit it altogether
Opt for light mayonnaise or replace it with mashed avocado for healthy fats
Add more veggies like sliced tomatoes or spinach to boost nutrition
Grill with cooking spray instead of butter to reduce fat content
Pair the sandwich with a side salad to balance the meal

Editor's Opinion on Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno

This grilled cheese with bacon and jalapeno recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The combination of creamy cheddar, smoky bacon, and spicy jalapeno creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The use of brioche bread adds a touch of sweetness and richness, elevating the overall experience. The addition of mayonnaise on the bread creates a crispy, golden crust while ensuring a moist and flavorful interior. This recipe is a perfect balance of indulgence and comfort, making it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilled cheese game.

Enhance Your Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a hint of garlic and lemon zest.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a savory garlic flavor, the perfect complement to the rich and gooey grilled cheese with bacon and jalapeno.

Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, providing a light and fresh contrast to the indulgent grilled cheese.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno

Spicy Shrimp Tacos: These tacos are bursting with flavor and heat, perfect for a spicy food lover!

Mango Chicken Salad: This refreshing and tropical salad is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a hint of tanginess.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Warm up with this comforting and creamy soup, perfect for a cozy night in.

Berry Cobbler: Indulge in this sweet and fruity dessert, topped with a buttery and crispy crust.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These colorful and flavorful skewers are a perfect addition to any barbecue or gathering.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta with a Twist: Put a unique spin on traditional bruschetta by topping crispy baguette slices with a refreshing combination of diced mango, avocado, and red onion. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, warm chocolate dessert that oozes with rich, molten goodness. The contrast between the gooey center and the slightly crisp exterior will leave your taste buds in awe.

Tiramisu: Experience the perfect balance of creamy mascarpone, delicate ladyfingers, and a hint of coffee and cocoa. This classic Italian dessert is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more.

Why trust this Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeno Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese, incorporating bacon for a savory punch and jalapeno for a hint of heat. The combination of cheddar cheese and these flavorful additions creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The use of brioche bread adds a touch of sweetness, elevating the overall experience. With the careful layering of ingredients and the grilling process, this recipe ensures a gooey, melty, and satisfying result. Trust in the expertise of this culinary creation to elevate your grilled cheese game to new heights.

Want to share your own twist on this grilled cheese with bacon and jalapeno recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how you make yours!

FAQ:

What type of bread is best for this grilled cheese recipe?

I recommend using brioche bread for this recipe. Its rich, buttery flavor and soft texture make it perfect for a delicious grilled cheese.

Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Absolutely! If you prefer a vegetarian option or simply want to skip the bacon, feel free to leave it out. The grilled cheese will still be delicious with the cheddar and jalapeno flavors.

How spicy is the jalapeno in this recipe?

The jalapeno adds a nice kick of heat to the grilled cheese. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds and membrane from the jalapeno before adding it to the sandwich.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Certainly! While cheddar cheese pairs wonderfully with the bacon and jalapeno, you can get creative and use your favorite cheese. Gouda, pepper jack, or even a combination of different cheeses can work well in this recipe.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

To make this grilled cheese a bit healthier, you can use whole grain bread, turkey bacon, and light mayo. You can also add some fresh spinach or arugula for an extra boost of nutrients.