If you think grilled cheese can’t get any better, let me introduce you to a flavor-packed twist: the Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich. This isn’t just your childhood classic with a little crunch on the side—it’s a crave-worthy upgrade that combines creamy cheese, tangy dill pickles, and ranch-spiked cream cheese between slices of golden sourdough. Ready in minutes, this sandwich brings big, bold character and is perfect for those days when you want comfort food with a punch.

Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how just a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create something this unforgettable. Every addition plays a crucial role—so even though the list is short, don’t underestimate the power of each element to transform your Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich into an irresistible sensation.

Dill pickles: Slice up 12-16 crisp dill pickles for that signature briny crunch and bold tang.
Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Softened cream cheese makes your sandwich extra creamy and helps all those delicious flavors meld.
Ranch dressing (2 tablespoons): Brings herby, zesty undertones that guarantee each bite is perfectly seasoned.
Dried parsley (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a fresh pop of color and subtle herby flavor to liven things up.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses each bite with aromatic warmth—absolutely key for that robust, savory kick.
Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances depth and balances the sharpness of the pickles and cheese.
Kosher salt (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds everything out and intensifies all those craveable flavors.
Sourdough bread (4 large slices): Go for a square loaf—you want sturdy, tangy slices to keep all the filling in and toast up to golden perfection.
Cheese (4 ounces): Your favorite melty cheese—cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even gouda—will make every bite stringy and gooey.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Essential for achieving that rich, crispy, golden crust that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.

How to Make Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Step 1: Pat Dry the Pickles

This quick step is a total game changer. Use a paper towel to pat the dill pickles dry—removing the excess moisture keeps your Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich crispy and stops your bread from getting soggy. Don’t skip it!

Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Ranch Spread

In a small bowl, stir together your softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. A few stirs and it’ll be gorgeously smooth—this layer adds instant tang, creaminess, and that hint of herby ranch magic in every bite.

Step 3: Make the Herby Seasoning

Grab another small bowl to mix the dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt. This spice sprinkle is what gives your sandwiches that little extra oomph and an appetizing speckle of color once grilled.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

Get your favorite large skillet heating over medium-low. Cast iron is ideal for that picture-perfect crust, but any nonstick skillet will work. Preheating makes sure you get an even, golden brown without burning.

Step 5: Assemble, Layer, and Butter

Now it all comes together! Grab two slices of sourdough and spread each with your cream cheese and ranch mixture. Top with generous layers of pickles and cheese, then cap them with the remaining slices of bread. Slather the outsides with butter, then sprinkle on your herby seasoning to guarantee a gorgeous golden crunch and kiss of flavor in every mouthful.

Step 6: Grill to Cheese-Pull Perfection

Lay the sandwiches onto the hot skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, flipping once the first side is deeply golden. Keep the heat medium-low so the cheese has time to melt without scorching the bread. Once everything is gooey and the crust is perfectly crisp, your Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich is ready to steal the show.

How to Serve Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Garnishes

Top your Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a fragrant finish. Want to take it up a notch? A quick drizzle of ranch or a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper makes every slice look extra inviting.

Side Dishes

This tangy, cheesy sandwich screams for classic tomato soup—dunking heaven! Or, keep it light and fresh with a simple salad dressed in a lemony vinaigrette. Homemade potato chips or fries are also stellar companions for your Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich, delivering maximum crunch and comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your sandwiches into triangles for a retro look or slice them into strips for dipping (kids love this!). Serve on a wooden board with extra pickles and a sidecar of ranch dipping sauce for a sharable, party-ready Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers—though I won’t blame you if you don’t—pop the cooled Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich halves into an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days and are still totally lunchbox-worthy after a quick reheat.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze assembled and grilled Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwiches. Just let them cool, wrap individually in wax or parchment paper, then slip into freezer bags. They’ll keep for 1-2 months and taste fabulous toasted up from frozen.

Reheating

To get that craveable crunch back, reheat the Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich in a skillet over medium heat for a couple minutes per side. You can also warm them in an oven or toaster oven—just skip the microwave, as it can make the bread a bit soft.

FAQs

Can I use any type of cheese for this sandwich?

Absolutely! Cheddar gives classic sharpness, but Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a blend work beautifully—just pick something that melts well, so your Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich has that essential gooey goodness.

What type of pickles should I use?

Dill pickles bring the perfect tang and crispness, but bread-and-butter pickles can add a touch of sweetness if you’re feeling adventurous. Just be sure to dry them for the best sandwich experience.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Definitely! Swap the sourdough for your favorite gluten-free sandwich bread and enjoy every bit of the Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich magic without worry.

How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?

Pat your pickles dry and use hearty sourdough bread—this combo keeps your sandwich crisp on the outside and melty inside every time.

Can I make these in advance for meal prep?

You sure can. Grill the Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, let them cool, then store in the fridge or freezer. They reheat beautifully, making them a stellar grab-and-go option for busy days.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for comfort food with a delightful twist, the Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich is calling your name! Don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again—it just has that special something. Give it a try, make it your own, and enjoy the delicious adventure that awaits.

Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 17 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A unique take on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, this recipe features tangy dill pickles and a flavorful cream cheese spread for a delicious twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Sliced Dill Pickles:

12–16 slices

Cream Cheese Mixture:

4 ounces cream cheese (softened), 2 tablespoons ranch dressing

Spice Mixture:

1/2 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Remaining Ingredients:

4 large slices square loaf sourdough bread, 4 ounces cheese, 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

Prepare Pickles: Pat dry the sliced pickles and set aside.
Make Cream Cheese Spread: In a bowl, mix cream cheese and ranch dressing; set aside.
Create Spice Mix: In another bowl, combine parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Heat Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat.
Assemble Sandwiches: Spread cream cheese mixture on two bread slices. Layer with pickles, cheese, and top with the other bread slices. Butter the outsides and sprinkle with spice mix.
Cook Sandwiches: Cook sandwiches in the skillet for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts. Serve hot.

Notes

You can use your choice of cheese such as cheddar, Swiss, or provolone.
The cast-iron skillet is recommended for best results.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: Approximately 520
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 1050mg
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 13g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Grilled Cheese Recipe, Pickle Sandwich