Pin It Crispy grilled cheese sandwiches with a tangy, spicy pickle twist are a fun way to upgrade a classic favorite. These dippers are ideal for snacking or enjoying as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
I first made these Spicy Pickle Grilled Cheese Dippers for a game night, and everyone loved dunking crispy sandwich strips into ranch dressing and tomato soup. The hint of jalapeño gives them the perfect zing.
Ingredients
- Sourdough bread: 8 slices, adds hearty crunch
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 8 slices for rich, melty flavor
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp, softened for easier spreading
- Dill pickles: ½ cup, thinly sliced for tanginess
- Jalapeño: 1 small, thinly sliced (optional for extra heat)
- Pickled jalapeños: 2 tbsp, chopped for added spice
- Hot sauce: 1 tbsp, use your favorite for heat
- Ranch dressing or tomato soup: ½ cup, optional for dipping
Instructions
- Prep the bread:
- Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Layer the cheese:
- Arrange 4 slices of bread, buttered side down, and top each with 2 slices of cheddar cheese.
- Add pickles and spice:
- Distribute dill pickles, jalapeño slices (if using), and pickled jalapeños over the cheese.
- Drizzle hot sauce:
- Add a little hot sauce over the pickles.
- Finish assembly:
- Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Cook sandwiches:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium. Cook sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts.
- Slice into dippers:
- Let sandwiches cool slightly, then cut each into strips.
- Serve:
- Enjoy warm with ranch dressing or tomato soup for dipping.
Pin It My family loves munching on these dippers during movie nights, especially when served with creamy tomato soup on chilly evenings.
Required Tools
You will need a large nonstick skillet or griddle, spatula, sharp knife, and cutting board for easy assembly and serving.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy from cheese and butter as well as gluten from bread. For gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free bread and check the labels of all other ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 390 calories, 22 g total fat, 33 g carbohydrates, and 13 g protein.
Pin It Enjoy these spicy pickle dippers warm for the crispiest bite! They're sure to be a hit at any gathering or cozy afternoon snack.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What types of cheese work best for this dish?
Sharp cheddar provides great meltability and flavor, but smoked cheddar or pepper jack can add extra depth and spice.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute sourdough with gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of jalapeños and hot sauce used or omit fresh jalapeños for less heat.
- → What dipping sauces complement these dippers?
Classic choices like ranch dressing or creamy tomato soup pair well, enhancing the crispy, spicy elements.
- → What is the best cooking method for even melting?
Use a medium-heat nonstick skillet or griddle, cooking each side until golden brown and cheese is fully melted.