Save Crispy grilled cheese sandwiches with a tangy, spicy pickle twist, perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces.
Whenever I crave something crunchy and cheesy for a snack, these spicy pickle grilled cheese dippers always hit the spot. The pickles and hot sauce make every bite vibrant and fun.
Ingredients
- Sourdough bread: 8 slices
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 8 slices
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp, softened
- Dill pickles: ½ cup, thinly sliced
- Jalapeño: 1 small, thinly sliced (optional)
- Pickled jalapeños: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Hot sauce: 1 tbsp, use your favorite
- Ranch dressing or tomato soup: ½ cup, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Butter the bread:
- Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Layer the cheese:
- Lay 4 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Top each with 2 slices of cheddar cheese.
- Add pickles and spice:
- Distribute dill pickles, fresh jalapeño slices (if using), and chopped pickled jalapeños over the cheese on each sandwich. Drizzle a bit of hot sauce on top.
- Complete the sandwiches:
- Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Grill the sandwiches:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.
- Cut into dippers:
- Remove, cool slightly, then slice each sandwich into strips.
- Serve:
- Enjoy warm with a dipping sauce like ranch or tomato soup.
Save These sandwiches are a fun family favorite, especially when everyone gets to dip their own cheesy strips into a bowl of soup or creamy ranch. Even picky eaters ask for these on movie nights.
Required Tools
Large nonstick skillet or griddle, spatula, sharp knife, and cutting board.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 390 calories, 22 g fat, 33 g carbohydrates, 13 g protein.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and gluten. Check hot sauce labels for additional allergens.
Save Serve these dippers right after grilling for the best crunch. Customize the spice to everyone’s liking and enjoy warm with your favorite sauce.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of bread works best?
Sourdough bread provides a sturdy, flavorful base that crisps well while holding the fillings securely.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, modify spiciness by adding or omitting fresh jalapeños and adjusting the amount of hot sauce used.
- → What cheeses are recommended?
Sharp cheddar melts nicely, but smoked cheddar or pepper jack can add more depth or heat respectively.
- → How should I cook the sandwiches?
Use a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, cooking each side until golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- → What dipping options complement this dish?
Ranch dressing or creamy tomato soup pair well, balancing the spicy and tangy flavors perfectly.