Dill Pickle Grilled Cheese is a bold, tangy twist on the classic sandwich I already love. It takes the golden, melty goodness of traditional grilled cheese and adds the briny crunch of dill pickles for an extra punch of flavor. It’s quick, fun, and surprisingly addictive—especially for pickle lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this sandwich takes something so familiar and gives it a little edge. The pickles add the perfect contrast to the melted cheese—salty, sour, and crisp, while the buttery bread brings it all together. It’s incredibly easy to make, ready in minutes, and makes lunch or dinner feel way more exciting with minimal effort.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
sourdough, rye, or sandwich bread
butter (softened for spreading)
cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
dill pickles (sliced lengthwise or in rounds)
optional: garlic powder, pickle juice for brushing, or fresh dill for extra flavor
directions
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I start by buttering one side of each slice of bread.
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I place one slice, buttered-side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
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I layer on slices of cheese, followed by dill pickle slices, then more cheese, and top with the second slice of bread, buttered-side up.
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I cook the sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
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I remove it from the skillet, let it cool slightly, then slice and serve while hot and gooey.
Servings and timing
This makes 1 sandwich (easily scaled up). Prep time is about 5 minutes, and cook time is around 8–10 minutes.
Variations
Sometimes I use different cheeses like provolone, Swiss, or pepper jack for a flavor twist. I’ve added a touch of Dijon mustard inside for extra tang. When I want a crunchier texture, I toast the pickles lightly before adding them. I’ve even made a version with a bit of cream cheese spread for a deli-style grilled cheese vibe.
storage/reheating
This sandwich is best fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store them in the fridge wrapped tightly. To reheat, I use a skillet or air fryer to bring back the crispiness—microwaving makes it soggy, so I avoid that.
FAQs
What kind of pickles work best?
I use classic dill pickles—either sandwich slices or rounds. The tanginess balances the richness of the cheese perfectly.
Can I use shredded cheese?
Yes, I’ve used shredded cheese, and it melts beautifully. I just make sure it’s evenly distributed so the sandwich holds together well.
Is this sandwich very salty?
It has a strong flavor from the pickles and cheese, so I skip any added salt. If I want to mellow it out, I go with a mild cheese like mozzarella.
What bread works best?
I prefer sourdough or rye for extra texture and flavor, but any sandwich bread works. I just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the fillings.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, I’ve made it with dairy-free butter, vegan cheese slices, and plant-based bread. Just check that the pickles and cheese alternatives are vegan-friendly.
Conclusion
Dill Pickle Grilled Cheese is a fun, flavorful spin on a classic that’s perfect when I want something easy, comforting, and just a little unexpected. It’s tangy, cheesy, crispy, and completely satisfying. Whether I’m making lunch for myself or a quick dinner for friends, this sandwich always gets devoured.
Print
Dill Pickle Grilled Cheese
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: 13–15 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich (easily scaled)
- Category: Lunch, Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Dill Pickle Grilled Cheese is a fun and tangy twist on the classic sandwich—loaded with melty cheese, crisp dill pickles, and golden buttery bread. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack, this quick and easy grilled cheese recipe is bold, satisfying, and loved by pickle fans everywhere.
Ingredients
- 2 slices sourdough, rye, or sandwich bread
- 1–2 tbsp butter, softened
- 2–3 slices cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 4–6 dill pickle slices (lengthwise or rounds)
- Optional: garlic powder, a splash of pickle juice, or fresh dill
Instructions
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Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
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Heat a skillet over medium heat.
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Place one slice of bread butter-side down in the skillet.
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Layer cheese, pickles, and more cheese.
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Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
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Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
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Remove from heat, let cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Notes
- Try different cheeses like provolone, Swiss, or pepper jack.
- Add a thin layer of cream cheese or Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
- Lightly toast the pickles first for even more crunch.
- Use vegan cheese and plant-based butter to make it vegan.
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