Spicy Chipotle Grilled Cheese Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 2 sandwiches)
For the Sandwiches:
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4 slices of bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or your preferred type)
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4 tablespoons butter (softened, for spreading on the bread)
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2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise (for a crispy golden crust)
For the Chipotle Mayo:
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped, with a bit of sauce)
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1 teaspoon lime juice 🍋
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
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1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 🌶️ (optional, for extra smokiness)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Make the Chipotle Mayo:
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In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, finely chopped chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
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Stir everything together until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more chipotle for heat or lime juice for brightness.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
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Spread the chipotle mayo on one side of each slice of bread. You can spread a generous amount for extra flavor, or less for a milder taste.
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Layer the shredded cheese on top of the mayo, then close the sandwich with the other slice of bread, mayo side facing inward.
3. Cook the Sandwiches:
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Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
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Butter one side of each sandwich with 1 tablespoon of softened butter. Then place the sandwiches in the hot skillet, buttered side down.
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Grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese has melted. You can press down on the sandwiches slightly with a spatula to help them cook evenly.
4. Serve:
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Once the sandwiches are grilled to your liking, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a minute or two before slicing.
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Cut each sandwich in half and serve hot!
Tips & Variations
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For extra heat: Add more chipotle peppers or some hot sauce to the chipotle mayo. If you want more of a kick, slice fresh jalapeños to add in between the cheese layers.
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Cheese options: For a creamy melt, a blend of cheddar and mozzarella works great. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy kick.
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Add-ins: Try adding some caramelized onions, avocado slices, or crispy bacon to take your grilled cheese to the next level.
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Vegan version: Use vegan butter, mayo, and a dairy-free cheese blend to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Q&A Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of bread?
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Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer! Sourdough, whole wheat, rye, or even a baguette all work well for grilled cheese.
Q2: How can I make the sandwich spicier?
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To increase the heat, add more chipotle peppers to the mayo, or incorporate sliced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers between the cheese. You could also drizzle some hot sauce like Sriracha for extra spice.
Q3: Can I use store-bought chipotle sauce instead of peppers in adobo?
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Yes! If you don’t have chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, you can substitute with a chipotle hot sauce or chipotle powder. Just start with a small amount and adjust to your heat preference.
Q4: Can I make this in a panini press?
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Yes! A panini press is a great way to make grilled cheese sandwiches with an even crispiness on both sides. Just assemble the sandwiches as instructed and grill according to your press’s settings.
Q5: Can I make the chipotle mayo in advance?
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Absolutely! The chipotle mayo can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’ll allow the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions
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Soup Pairing: Serve your spicy chipotle grilled cheese with a bowl of tomato soup for a classic combination with a spicy twist.
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Side: A side of crispy French fries, a salad, or some pickles will complement the sandwich perfectly.