Pepper Jack & Tomato Grilled Cheese (Print View)

A spicy, melty sandwich featuring pepper jack cheese and fresh tomato slices, grilled 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 - Salt to taste
06 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

# How to Prepare:

01 - Lay out all bread slices on a clean surface and butter one side of each slice evenly.
02 - Place two slices with buttered side down on work surface. Layer each with 2 slices of pepper jack cheese and half of 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 complete sandwiches.
04 - Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat until surface is evenly warm.
05 - Place sandwiches in the 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 sandwiches from skillet, allow to cool for 1 minute, slice diagonally in half, and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The pepper jack brings just enough heat to wake up your taste buds without overwhelming them
  • Fresh tomato slices add this bright acidity that cuts through all that rich, melted cheese
02 -
  • Don't overcrowd your pan or the temperature will drop and you'll end up with soggy bread instead of crispy
  • Patting your tomato slices with a paper towel before assembling prevents that dreaded soggy bottom situation
03 -
  • Butter the corners of your bread extra well—they're always the first parts to burn
  • If your cheese isn't melting, tent your pan with a lid for 30 seconds to trap the heat
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