Save It Crispy grilled cheese sandwiches with a tangy, spicy pickle twist offer a deliciously bold snack that is perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces. This recipe combines classic comfort with a fun, zesty upgrade.
The first time I made these spicy pickle grilled cheese dippers, my friends couldn't stop raving about the flavor combination. The melty cheddar with pickles and jalapeños quickly became our go-to for game nights.
Ingredients
- Bread & Dairy: 8 slices of sourdough bread, 8 slices of sharp cheddar cheese, 4 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- Pickles & Spice: ½ cup dill pickles thinly sliced, 1 small jalapeño thinly sliced (optional for extra heat), 2 tbsp pickled jalapeños chopped, 1 tbsp hot sauce (such as Sriracha or your favorite)
- Optional Dipping Sauce: ½ cup ranch dressing or tomato soup for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Bread:
- Spread the softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Layer Cheese & Pickles:
- Lay 4 slices of bread buttered side down on a clean surface. Top each with 2 slices of cheddar cheese.
- Add Pickles & Jalapeño:
- Distribute dill pickles, fresh jalapeño slices (if using), and chopped pickled jalapeños evenly over the cheese on each sandwich.
- Drizzle Hot Sauce:
- Drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the pickles on each sandwich.
- Top & Assemble:
- Top with the remaining bread slices buttered side up.
- Cook Sandwiches:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Cool & Cut:
- Remove sandwiches from the skillet and let cool slightly. Cut each sandwich into strips (dippers).
- Serve:
- Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce.
Save It Making these for my family was a big hit—especially with kids who loved dipping their cheesy strips into tomato soup. It’s a great way to create a fun, interactive meal together.
Required Tools
Large nonstick skillet or griddle, spatula, sharp knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, butter) and gluten (bread). Check commercial hot sauces for additional allergens. Substitute with gluten-free bread if needed.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 390, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 33 g, Protein: 13 g
Save It Enjoy these spicy pickle grilled cheese dippers for any occasion—just don’t forget your favorite sauce for dipping!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
Sourdough bread is ideal due to its sturdy texture and tangy flavor, which compliments the sharp cheddar and pickles.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Spice can be customized by varying the amount of fresh jalapeño or substituting the hot sauce to suit your heat preference.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of sharp cheddar?
Yes, smoked cheddar or pepper jack add unique flavors and can enhance the overall taste.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these grilled cheese dippers?
Ranch dressing and creamy tomato soup are popular choices that complement the spicy and tangy elements.
- → Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?
Absolutely, substitute with gluten-free bread while ensuring all other ingredients comply with gluten-free standards.