Save Crispy grilled cheese sandwiches with a tangy, spicy pickle twist, perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces.
I first tried adding pickles and jalapeños to grilled cheese after a late-night craving for something savory and spicy. It became an instant favorite for family movie nights when everyone wanted a little extra zing in their snack.
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 the bread:
- Spread the softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Layer cheese:
- Lay 4 slices of bread, buttered side down. Top each with 2 slices of cheddar cheese.
- Add pickles & spice:
- Distribute dill pickles, fresh jalapeño slices (if using), and chopped pickled jalapeños evenly over the cheese.
- Drizzle hot sauce:
- Drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the pickles on each sandwich.
- Assemble:
- Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Cook:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches in skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Finish & serve:
- Remove sandwiches from skillet and let cool slightly. Cut each sandwich into strips (dippers). Serve warm with dipping sauce.
Save This recipe quickly became a weekend favorite, especially when everyone gathers around the counter ready to dip their own cheesy, crunchy strips. My kids love customizing the level of spice in each sandwich.
Required Tools
Large nonstick skillet or griddle, spatula, sharp knife, and cutting board are all you'll need for perfect dippers.
Allergen Information
Recipe contains dairy and gluten. If using commercial hot sauce, double check for possible allergens. Gluten-free bread makes this recipe friendly for more diets.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 390 calories, 22 g fat, 33 g carbs, and 13 g protein. Actual nutrition may vary based on ingredients used.
Save Serve immediately for the crispiest, cheesiest results. These dippers are always a hit at parties or snack time.
Common recipe questions
- → What bread type works best?
Sourdough bread offers a sturdy yet tender base that crisps nicely without becoming soggy during cooking.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, vary the amount of jalapeño and hot sauce to suit your desired heat intensity.
- → What are good dipping options?
Creamy ranch dressing and tomato soup both complement the flavors and provide smooth textures for dipping.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Smoked cheddar or pepper jack add extra depth and spice, enhancing the overall taste profile.
- → How to keep dippers crispy?
Cook sandwiches over medium heat until golden brown on each side, then slice and serve warm to maintain crispness.
- → Are there allergen considerations?
This preparation contains dairy and gluten; substitute gluten-free bread and check sauces if needed.