Description
This Pickle Grilled Cheese Sandwich combines tangy dill pickles with a creamy ranch and cream cheese spread, layered with melted cheese and toasted sourdough bread for a flavorful twist on a classic grilled cheese.
Ingredients
Pickle and Spread
- 12-16 sliced dill pickles
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temp
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Sandwich
- 4 large slices square loaf sourdough bread
- 4 ounces cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your preferred melting cheese)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare Pickles: Pat dry the sliced dill pickles thoroughly using paper towels and set them aside to remove excess moisture and prevent sogginess in the sandwich.
- Mix Cream Cheese Spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing until smooth and well incorporated; set aside.
- Combine Seasonings: In another small bowl, mix together the dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt to create a flavorful spice blend for the sandwich exterior.
- Heat Skillet: Place a large skillet, preferably cast iron, on the stovetop over medium-low heat to slowly toast the sandwich and melt the cheese.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Lay out the four slices of sourdough bread. Spread the cream cheese and ranch mixture evenly on two slices. Layer each with the dried dill pickle slices and then the cheese. Top these with the remaining two slices of sourdough bread.
- Butter and Season: Butter the outside of each sandwich generously on both sides. Then sprinkle each side with the prepared spice mixture for added flavor and a beautiful crust.
- Cook Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches in the hot skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes on one side until the bread is golden brown and crisp, then carefully flip and cook another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the other side is also golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and serve warm for the best melty, tangy grilled cheese experience.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet if possible for even heating and browning.
- Choose a good melting cheese like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere for best results.
- Patting the pickles dry is crucial to avoid soggy bread.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, or omit salt if your pickles are very salty.
- If you prefer spicier sandwiches, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper to the spice mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
