Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

BySarah
Jump to Recipe· 4.5 from 7 reviews

If you’re a grilled cheese lover looking to shake things up a bit, I have a treat for you: the Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe. It’s that comforting gooey cheese you adore, but with a tangy, crunchy pickle surprise that totally elevates your sandwich game. Trust me, once you try this combo, you won’t look back. So grab your skillet and let me walk you through making this fan-freaking-tastic twist on a classic!

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Perfect Flavor Balance: The sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully, while the dill pickles add a refreshing tang and crunch that contrasts the richness.
  • Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together fast for a satisfying meal or snack.
  • Customizable Heat: Adding your favorite hot sauce brings a subtle kick, but you can skip or swap it depending on your mood.
  • No-Fail Cooking Method: Cooking low and slow in a skillet ensures a golden crisp outside and gooey cheese inside without burning.
Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich, savory grilled cheese with pickles, easy grilled cheese recipes, cheesy sandwich with pickles, quick snack ideas - The image shows a sandwich that is toasted to a golden brown with a slightly crispy texture on the outside. The sandwich is cut into two pieces, with the larger piece showing layers of melted orange cheese and green pickles inside. The sandwich rests on a clear glass plate placed on a white marbled surface. Around the sandwich, there is a small pile of light golden potato chips, with one chip placed on the plate near the sandwich pieces. To the upper right of the plate, there is a white bowl filled with thick, round slices of pickles. The scene is bright and clear. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic behind this Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe comes down to choosing the right ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Each element brings something important — from that buttery crisp to the tangy crunch and melty cheese gooiness. Here’s what you’ll want on hand.

Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich, savory grilled cheese with pickles, easy grilled cheese recipes, cheesy sandwich with pickles, quick snack ideas - Flat lay of a few pats of smooth yellow butter, four slices of rustic sourdough bread with a golden crust, a small white ceramic bowl filled with bright orange shredded cheddar cheese, two fresh whole kosher dill pickles sliced thin, a small white bowl containing vibrant red hot sauce, and a small white bowl with finely dried green dill weed, all arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Butter: I like real butter for amazing browning and flavor; margarine works if you prefer a dairy-free option.
  • Sandwich Bread: Something sturdy like sourdough holds up well to all that butter, cheese, and pickles without getting soggy.
  • Cheddar Cheese: I use medium cheddar because it melts wonderfully and has a nice, balanced sharpness.
  • Kosher Dill Pickles: The star of the show! Thinly sliced and patted dry so your sandwich doesn’t turn soggy.
  • Dried Dill (Dill Weed): Adds a subtle herbaceous note that ties in beautifully with the pickles.
  • Hot Sauce (Optional): I’m a big fan of Sriracha here — it adds just the right amount of heat to cut through the richness.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

One of the things I love about this Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Whether you want it cheesier, spicy, or even vegan-friendly, small tweaks can make it truly yours.

  • Cheese Swap: I’ve tried swapping cheddar for Gouda or mozzarella, and it’s delicious too – just make sure it melts well!
  • Add-ons: If you’re feeling adventurous, a few bacon strips or caramelized onions add extra depth and texture.
  • Heat Level: Adjust your hot sauce quantity or try different chili sauces depending on how spicy you want it.
  • Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, vegan cheese, and make sure pickles are free from any animal products.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Butter Up Your Bread Evenly

Start by spreading butter on both sides of each slice of bread. I usually use 2 to 3 tablespoons in total, but feel free to use less or more depending on how buttery you like it. This step is crucial because the butter creates that golden crispy crust and rich flavor—don’t skip it! Just remember to spread it evenly so the bread grills to perfection without burning spots.

Step 2: Layer Cheese, Pickles, and Flavor

On two of your buttered bread slices, add half of your shredded cheddar (around 2 ounces or ½ cup). Sprinkle a pinch of dried dill over the cheese for that subtle herbal lift. Then, arrange thinly sliced kosher dill pickles on top—make sure you’ve patted any extra moisture off with paper towels to keep your sandwich crisp. If you’re going for a spicy kick, drizzle a bit of your favorite hot sauce here. Finish with the remaining cheese, then top each sandwich with the final bread slices, butter side out.

Step 3: Grill to Golden Perfection

Heat a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-low to medium heat. Place your assembled sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side, watching closely so they don’t burn — you want a beautiful golden brown crust. Flip carefully using a spatula, then grill the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes until just as crispy and the cheese has melted deliciously inside.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

Slice your sandwich in half (if you like) and bite into that perfect blend of creamy cheese, tangy dill pickles, and crispy buttery bread. Honestly, every time I make this Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe, I’m surprised at how well the pickles elevate the whole experience!

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Pro Tips for Making Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

  • Pat Pickles Dry: Removing excess moisture is a game-changer to prevent sogginess and keep your sandwich crisp.
  • Low and Slow Cooking: Cooking over medium-low heat gives the cheese time to melt while creating a perfect golden crust.
  • Choose Good Melting Cheese: Medium cheddar has the right balance of meltiness and flavor, but try others and find your favorite blend.
  • Use a Cast Iron Skillet: It heats evenly and retains heat well, making it ideal for grilled cheese perfection.

How to Serve Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich, savory grilled cheese with pickles, easy grilled cheese recipes, cheesy sandwich with pickles, quick snack ideas - The image shows a close-up of a grilled cheese sandwich sliced in half, revealing three layers inside: a thick, golden brown toasted bread with a crispy texture on the outside, a layer of melted orange cheese that is smooth and slightly stretchy, and thin green pickle slices placed above the cheese. The sandwich in the front is fully visible, while a stacked pile of more sandwich halves with the same layers is blurred in the background. To the left, there is a white bowl holding extra pickle slices. The whole scene is set on a surface with a white marbled texture, giving a clean and simple look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with a few fresh sprigs of dill or a light sprinkle of extra dried dill on the plate. Sometimes I add a few pickle slices on the side to amp up the retro deli vibe. These little touches brighten the presentation and hint at the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

Classic tomato soup is an old favorite pairing, but I also love a crisp green salad or even some crunchy sweet potato fries alongside for a bit of balance. If you’re craving more tang, a small bowl of coleslaw complements it beautifully too.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch gatherings, try cutting your sandwiches into bite-sized triangles and serving with toothpicks for easy snacking. Another fun idea I’ve done is layering extra pickles inside for a pickle-lover’s version or adding a fried egg on top for a hearty twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (rare in my house!), wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend refrigerating rather than leaving out since the pickles and cheese can spoil quickly.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t my favorite for grilled cheese because it tends to get a bit soggy and loses that crispiness when reheated. But if you must, wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, I gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warm and crispy again—about 3 minutes per side. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crunch!

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of pickles in this Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe?

    Absolutely! While kosher dill pickles are classic and add great flavor, you can experiment with bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter touch or spicy pickles if you like more heat. Just remember to slice them thinly and pat dry to prevent sogginess.

  2. What’s the best bread to use for this sandwich?

    I recommend a hearty bread like sourdough or a rustic country loaf since they hold up well to the moisture and give a sturdy base for melting cheese. But really, use whatever you love — just avoid very thin or soft breads that get mushy too quickly.

  3. Can I make this Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe vegan?

    Yes! Use plant-based butter and a vegan cheese that melts well. Pickles are naturally vegan, so no worries there. Cooking instructions remain the same; just monitor the meltiness closely.

  4. How do I avoid burning the sandwich while making it?

    Patience is key! Use medium-low heat so the bread crisps evenly while the cheese melts inside. Keep a close eye and flip as soon as the first side is golden brown. Avoid rushing by cranking up the heat, which often leads to burnt bread and unmelted cheese.

  5. Is there a suggested hot sauce for this recipe?

    I love Sriracha for its garlicky heat that pairs perfectly with pickles and cheddar, but you can use your favorite hot sauce – Frank’s RedHot or even a smoky chipotle sauce works well too.

Final Thoughts

This Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe quickly became one of my go-to comfort snacks because it hits every satisfying note: crispy, gooey, tangy, and just a little spicy if you want. I love sharing it with friends because it’s simple but delicious enough to impress. So next time you’re craving grilled cheese, mix things up with the pickle twist—you won’t regret it.

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Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 7 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 2 sandwiches
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

A deliciously tangy and crispy Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich featuring melted cheddar cheese, crunchy dill pickles, and a hint of spice from hot sauce, all grilled to golden perfection in a skillet.

Ingredients

Bread and Butter

  • 2 to 3 tablespoons butter
  • 4 slices sandwich bread (like sourdough)

Fillings

  • 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 cup), divided
  • 2 kosher dill pickles, thinly sliced and patted dry
  • Pinch dried dill (dill weed)
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce, optional

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Spread the butter evenly among the 4 slices of bread on both sides to ensure a crispy, golden exterior.
  2. Assemble Sandwiches: On two slices of bread, sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese (2 ounces or ½ cup). Add a pinch of dried dill over the cheese, then place the thinly sliced pickles on top. Drizzle with hot sauce if desired. Top with remaining cheddar cheese (2 ounces or ½ cup) and cover with the remaining slices of bread to form two sandwiches.
  3. Heat Skillet: Warm a 10-inch or 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-low to medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
  4. Grill Sandwiches: Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Flip and Cook Other Side: Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, achieving a golden brown crust and fully melted cheese inside.
  6. Serve: Remove sandwiches from the skillet and serve immediately while warm and melty. Enjoy your flavorful Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich!

Notes

  • Medium cheddar cheese was used here, but you can substitute with other melting cheeses like Gouda, mozzarella, or provolone based on your preference.
  • Pat pickles dry of excess moisture to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
  • Keep heat at medium-low to medium to avoid burning; the goal is a crispy outside with fully melted cheese.
  • Butter quantity can be adjusted according to bread size and personal preference for crispiness.
  • Kitchen appliances vary, so prep and cook times are approximate.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg

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