Imagine this: the crispy, golden-brown crust of a grilled cheese sandwich, but with a fiery twist that’ll make your taste buds dance. Spicy jalapenos nestle beside savory slices of ham, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both chaotic and harmonious—like the recent viral TikTok dance challenges that somehow make no sense yet are utterly mesmerizing. You’ll wonder why you hadn’t tried this combo sooner, like discovering a hidden track on a favorite album.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper. Coat the jalapeño halves with olive oil and arrange them on the baking sheet, then roast in the oven for about 15 minutes until the skins start to char.
- While the jalapeños cool slightly, combine softened cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a medium bowl. After the jalapeños have cooled enough to handle, chop them and incorporate them into the cream cheese mixture.
- Begin assembling the sandwich by spreading a quarter of the cream cheese mixture onto one slice of sourdough bread. Layer four slices of ham and two slices of Swiss cheese over the cream cheese, then top with a second slice of bread.
- Heat a medium skillet over medium heat, adding half a tablespoon of butter and a thin layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Place the sandwich in the skillet on top of the butter and cheese, allowing it to cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Carefully lift the sandwich with a spatula, add another half tablespoon of butter and more shredded cheese to the skillet, then flip the sandwich back into the pan. Cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring the cheese inside is melted and the bread is golden.
- Remove the sandwich from the skillet using a spatula and repeat the process for the remaining sandwiches. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Ingredients
- 4 large jalapeño peppers, stems removed, sliced in half, seeded
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 16 slices deli ham
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 8 slices sourdough bread
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, finely shredded
FAQ
- Can I make the cream cheese filling without roasting the jalapeno peppers?
- Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling using raw jalapeno peppers by seeding and dicing them before mixing. However, taste tests have shown that roasting the peppers enhances the flavor and slightly reduces their spiciness, making it a favorite choice for many, even those who prefer less heat.
- Is it possible to prepare the filling in advance?
- Certainly! You can make the oven-roasted jalapeno cream cheese filling ahead of time. After preparing it, store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Remember to let it reach room temperature before assembling your sandwiches.
- What dishes pair well with Jalapeno Ham Grilled Cheese?
- This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a range of sides to create a complete meal. Consider serving it with roasted tomato soup, coleslaw, crispy onion rings, or a fruit platter for a balanced and satisfying meal.
- What cheese can I use if I don’t have Swiss cheese?
- If Swiss cheese isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack. Each provides a unique taste profile, so feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese.
- Can I roast jalapeno peppers in an air fryer?
- Yes, jalapeno peppers can be roasted in an air fryer. Simply brush them with olive oil, place them in the air fryer basket, and cook for about 7 minutes at 425°F. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Tips
- For a less spicy version of the filling, make sure to roast the jalapeno peppers. Roasting helps to mellow the spiciness while enhancing the flavor of the peppers.
- If you’re short on time, prepare the jalapeno cream cheese filling in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days and allow it to reach room temperature before assembling the sandwiches.
- Experiment with different types of cheese if you’re not a fan of Swiss. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack can offer a delicious twist to your grilled cheese sandwich.
- To achieve a crispy, cheesy crust, make sure to add shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet before placing the sandwich. This step elevates the sandwich’s texture and flavor.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet – For roasting the jalapeno peppers in the oven.
- Parchment Paper – To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Air Fryer (optional) – If you choose to roast the jalapenos using an air fryer instead of an oven.
- Medium Skillet – For cooking the assembled sandwich.
- Spatula – To lift and flip the sandwich in the skillet.
