Description

This ultimate grilled cheese sandwich combines crisp, buttery sourdough, gooey sharp cheddar, and tangy dill pickles for a comforting meal with a punch of flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s easy, customizable, and sure to ruin regular grilled cheese for you forever.

Ingredients

Scale

2 slices sourdough or hearty sandwich bread
3/4 cup (about 3 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4–6 slices dill pickles
1–2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Optional: 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
Optional: pinch of garlic powder or dried dill
Optional: a couple thin slices of red onion

Instructions

Lay out 2 slices of sourdough (or your favorite bread). Grate about 3/4 cup sharp cheddar. Slice your pickles thin—about 4-6 slices per sandwich. If using onions, slice them paper thin.
Spread about 1 tablespoon unsalted butter on one side of each bread slice. Alternatively, spread a thin layer of mayo for extra crispness. Make sure to cover all the way to the edges.
Place one slice, buttered side down, in a cold pan. Sprinkle half the cheese, then layer on the pickles (and onion, if using). Add a pinch of garlic powder or dried dill if desired. Top with the rest of the cheese, then the second bread slice, buttered side up.
Turn the burner to medium-low. Cook the first side for about 4-5 minutes until golden and crisp. Flip with a spatula and press down lightly. Cook the other side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melty.
If the cheese isn’t fully melted, lower the heat and cover the pan for a minute to finish melting.
Transfer to a cutting board, let rest for 30 seconds, then slice in half and serve.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese and pat pickles dry to prevent soggy bread. Cook on medium-low heat for a crispy crust and gooey melt. Customize with different cheeses, add-ins like ham or jalapeños, or use gluten-free or vegan substitutes as needed. Serve immediately for maximum crunch.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Category: Sandwich
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 380
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 900
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 12
Carbohydrates: 33
Fiber: 2
Protein: 15

Keywords: grilled cheese, dill pickle, sandwich, comfort food, easy lunch, vegetarian, sourdough, cheddar cheese, quick meal