Save A fun, shareable twist on classic grilled cheese featuring creamy pimento cheese and spicy jalapeños baked into pull-apart bread—perfect for gatherings or game day.
Ingredients
- Pimento Cheese Spread: 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, 4 oz cream cheese, softened, 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Bread: 1 large round sourdough loaf (about 1 lb)
- Jalapeños & Toppings: 2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat if desired), 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, combine cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Step 3:
- Using a sharp bread knife, cut the sourdough loaf into a grid pattern: slice both horizontally and vertically, about 1 inch apart, but do not cut all the way through—leave the bottom of the loaf intact to create pull-apart sections.
- Step 4:
- Carefully stuff the pimento cheese mixture into the cuts, ensuring even distribution throughout the loaf.
- Step 5:
- Tuck jalapeño slices between the bread sections alongside the cheese mixture.
- Step 6:
- Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter.
- Step 7:
- Transfer the stuffed loaf to the prepared baking sheet. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden.
- Step 9:
- Sprinkle with chopped chives, if desired. Serve warm, pulling apart pieces to enjoy.
Save Required Tools
Bread knife, Mixing bowl, Baking sheet, Pastry brush, Parchment paper, Aluminum foil
Allergen Information
May contain mustard (check mayonnaise and bread ingredients). Always check ingredient labels if you have specific allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 340, Total Fat: 21 g, Carbohydrates: 26 g, Protein: 11 g
Save Serve warm with a side of tomato soup for a classic pairing.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I prepare the bread for stuffing?
Use a sharp bread knife to cut the sourdough loaf horizontally and vertically about 1 inch apart, making deep cuts without slicing through the bottom, creating pockets for the filling.
- → Can I adjust the spice level of the jalapeños?
Yes, removing the seeds and membranes from jalapeños reduces heat. Adding cayenne pepper to the cheese blend can increase spice if desired.
- → What alternatives exist for the cheese blend?
Replacing sharp cheddar with pepper jack adds extra spice, while cream cheese and mayonnaise create a smooth, creamy texture.
- → How do I ensure the bread stays moist and cheesy after baking?
Leave the cuts deep but intact at the bottom to hold moisture, and cover loosely with foil during the initial bake to trap steam before uncovered browning.
- → What toppings complement this pull-apart loaf?
Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor and a visual pop. For added richness, melted butter brushed on top enhances the crust.