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Dill Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich

dill pickle grilled cheese sandwich - featured image

This dill pickle grilled cheese sandwich combines gooey, melty cheese with tangy, crunchy dill pickles between slices of golden, buttery bread. It’s the ultimate winter comfort food with a flavor twist that will surprise and delight everyone.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 slices hearty white, sourdough, or rye bread (about 1/2 inch thick)
  • 1 cup (4 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (2 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup (1 oz) sliced Swiss or provolone cheese (optional)
  • 810 thick-cut dill pickle slices (about 1/2 cup), drained and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons (1 oz) softened butter (unsalted or salted)
  • 12 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Pinch garlic powder or fresh chives (optional)

Instructions

  1. Lay out 4 slices of bread on a clean surface. Butter one side of each slice generously (about 1/2 tablespoon per slice). Pat pickle slices dry with a paper towel.
  2. Flip the bread so the buttered sides are facing out. On two slices, sprinkle half the cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly. Layer pickle slices over the cheese, then sprinkle on the rest of the cheese. Add Swiss/provolone if using. Optionally, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of the other two bread slices, then place them mustard-side down to complete the sandwiches.
  3. Heat a nonstick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-low for about 1 minute.
  4. Place the sandwiches in the pan, buttered side down. Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side, pressing gently with a spatula. When the bottom is golden brown and crispy, carefully flip. Cook the second side for another 3–4 minutes, lowering the heat if needed, until the cheese is fully melted.
  5. If the cheese isn’t melted when the bread is browned, cover the pan with a lid for 30–60 seconds to help it along. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder or fresh chives inside the sandwich before serving.
  6. Remove sandwiches to a cutting board and let rest for 1–2 minutes. Slice diagonally and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use thick-cut bread and pat pickles dry to prevent sogginess. Cook over medium-low heat for even browning and melty cheese. Customize with different cheeses, spicy pickles, or fresh herbs. Vegan and gluten-free adaptations are easy with plant-based cheese/butter and gluten-free bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled cheese, dill pickle, sandwich, comfort food, winter, vegetarian, easy lunch, quick snack, cheese, pan-fried