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Dill Pickle Bacon Grilled Cheese is your ticket to a seriously craveable sandwich with a salty savory bite and melty goodness in every bite. When I need comfort food with a punchy twist I reach for this easy grilled cheese loaded with bacon strips and tangy dill pickles between layers of oozy cheddar and Swiss.
The first time I made this I wanted a snack that was both classic and surprising. My family now asks for it every weekend and we can never resist the combination of crispy bacon and briny pickles.
Ingredients
- Bacon: adds smoky salty crunch. Choose thick-cut bacon for extra texture and flavor
- Slices of Bread: classic white or sourdough works best. Pick a loaf with a soft crumb and crisp crust
- Unsalted Butter: for golden crispiness. Use high quality creamy butter for the best flavor
- Dill Pickles: bright and briny tang. Go for whole pickles and cut them fresh for the crunchiest bites
- Swiss Cheese: nutty smooth melt. Get pre-sliced from the deli counter for true creaminess
- Cheddar Cheese: sharp bold flavor. A medium or sharp cheddar brings just enough bite. Try to find a block and slice it yourself for a smoother melt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon:
- Fry your bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden. Drain on a paper towel to remove extra grease. Crispy bacon is key to the sandwich’s texture
- Butter the Bread:
- Spread room temperature butter evenly on one side of each bread slice using a butter knife. Make sure to cover every corner for the best crunch
- Build the Sandwich:
- Lay one slice of bread butter side down onto the skillet. Top it with cheddar cheese slices then layer on the cooked bacon strips dill pickle slices and finally Swiss cheese
- Top and Grill:
- Add the second slice of bread on top butter side facing up. Gently press down with a spatula for even browning and to help the cheese start melting
- Cook Slowly and Flip:
- Let your sandwich grill over medium low heat. Watch as the bread turns a deep golden and the cheese begins to melt. After a few minutes flip with a wide spatula and brown the other side evenly. Your goal is an evenly crisped exterior and gooey cheesy inside
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from the pan and let it cool for a minute to let the cheese set. Slice in half and serve hot for the full melty experience
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One of the best parts of this recipe is the way the dill pickles cut through the richness of the bacon and cheese. My kids love to add extra pickles for an even bigger tangy bite. As a family we have made this recipe a regular part of our Sunday lunch routine and it never disappoints.
Storage Tips
Grilled cheese tastes best fresh from the skillet but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for the crispiest results. Avoid the microwave which makes the bread soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon to lighten up the sandwich. Try rye bread for an earthier flavor or swap in Havarti instead of Swiss for extra creaminess. If you are out of cheddar Gouda is a great substitute that melts beautifully.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair with a bowl of tomato soup or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Add extra pickle slices on the side and serve with crunchy potato chips. This sandwich also makes a delicious brunch item with a fried egg on top.
Grilled Cheese in American Culture
Grilled cheese sandwiches have been a staple in American kitchens for generations. The combination of melty cheese and crispy bread became popular during the Great Depression as an affordable comfort meal. Adding bacon and pickles is a modern twist that brings playful decadence to the beloved classic.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the bread crisp, not soggy?
Use butter or mayonnaise on the bread’s outside, and cook over medium-low heat for even toasting. Drain the bacon well to prevent excess moisture.
- → Can I substitute cheeses in this sandwich?
Yes, try mozzarella, provolone, or Monterey Jack for different melt and flavor profiles. Mix and match to taste.
- → What’s the best way to cook bacon for sandwiches?
Pan-fry, bake, or microwave bacon strips until crisp. Blot with paper towels to remove extra grease before adding to the sandwich.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives to bacon?
Try smoked tempeh, coconut bacon, or veggie bacon strips to maintain smoky flavor without meat.
- → How can I make the sandwich extra crunchy?
Cook longer on a lower heat to maximize crunch, or try using a panini press for added texture.