Tex-Mex Grilled Cheese – A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite 🧀🌶️
If you love grilled cheese and have a soft spot for bold, zesty flavors, this Tex-Mex Grilled Cheese is about to become your new obsession. It takes everything you adore about the classic—melty cheese, crispy bread—and fuses it with the kick of Tex-Mex ingredients like jalapeños, seasoned beef, and smoky spices. Perfect for lunch, a late-night snack, or even a casual dinner, this sandwich packs heat, crunch, and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of thick sandwich bread (Texas toast or sourdough works great)
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup cooked ground beef or turkey, seasoned with taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped pickled jalapeños (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons salsa or pico de gallo (drained well)
- Optional: thinly sliced red onion, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Butter one side of each slice of bread and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together the shredded cheeses, seasoned meat, jalapeños, and salsa. You can also stir in some chopped onion or cilantro if you like.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place one slice of bread butter-side down into the skillet.
- Add a generous amount of the Tex-Mex filling on top and cover with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
- Grill for 2–3 minutes on each side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove, slice in half, and serve hot with sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa on the side.
Tips for the Best Tex-Mex Grilled Cheese
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- Drain your salsa well to avoid soggy bread.
- For extra crispiness, sprinkle a bit of shredded cheese directly on the skillet before placing the sandwich down.
FAQs
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the meat for black beans, corn, or sautéed bell peppers.
Q: What’s the best cheese combo?
Cheddar for sharpness, Monterey Jack for creaminess—but Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick!
Q: Can I cook it in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway through.
This Tex-Mex Grilled Cheese brings just the right amount of spice and ooey-gooey comfort—perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors in a handheld bite!
