Save Crispy grilled cheese sandwiches with a tangy, spicy pickle twist, perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces.
Trying these spicy pickle grilled cheese dippers for the first time was such a fun change from classic grilled cheese. The melted cheddar against the tanginess of pickles and heat from jalapeños made each bite exciting—my family couldn't stop snacking on them.
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
- Prep Bread:
- Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Assemble Sandwiches:
- Lay 4 slices of bread, buttered side down, and top each with 2 slices cheddar cheese.
- Add Flavorings:
- Distribute dill pickles, jalapeño slices and chopped pickled jalapeños evenly over the cheese.
- Add Sauce:
- Drizzle hot sauce over pickles on each sandwich.
- Top & Cook:
- Top with remaining bread, buttered side up, and cook in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Slice:
- Remove sandwiches from skillet. Let cool slightly and cut each sandwich into strips (dippers).
- Serve:
- Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce.
Save These dippers are always a hit during movie nights, especially when everyone is reaching for their favorite sauce. The pickles give it a crunch my kids and spouse love.
Required Tools
Large nonstick skillet or griddle, spatula, sharp knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, butter) and gluten (bread). Hot sauce may contain other allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 390, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 33 g, Protein: 13 g
Save For an irresistible snack, serve piping hot with creamy ranch or classic tomato soup. Enjoy the crispy, tangy dippers straight from the skillet!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, modify the heat by varying the amount or type of jalapeños and hot sauce used.
- → Which cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar offers great melting qualities; smoked cheddar or pepper jack adds extra flavor.
- → What kind of bread is recommended?
Sourdough is preferred for its crispiness and sturdy texture, but other breads can be used.
- → Are there suitable dipping alternatives?
Try ranch dressing, tomato soup, or creamy sauces to complement the flavors.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread and check labels on all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Prepare the sandwiches ahead and cook just before serving to maintain crispiness and melted cheese.