Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese

1. Cook the Bacon

Cook the chopped bacon in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving behind about a tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet. Discard the remaining fat, then mix the reserved bacon fat with the melted butter.

2. Prepare Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped fresh jalapeños, jarred jalapeños, scallions, pepper, and the cooked bacon. Mix everything together until well combined.

3. Assemble Sandwiches

Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with foil. Take the slices of bread and brush one side of each with the butter and bacon fat mixture. Place the slices buttered side down on the prepared baking sheet. Evenly spread the cheddar mixture onto four slices of the bread. Top each with the remaining bread slices, making sure the buttered side is facing up.

4. Bake Sandwiches

Bake the sandwiches in the oven set to 425°F, with the rack adjusted to the middle position. Let them bake for 6 to 8 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted perfectly.

5. Serve

Once baked, let the sandwiches cool for about 5 minutes. Cut them in half and serve immediately.