Pickle Grilled Cheese Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 8 slices sourdough bread
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 1/2 cups shredded havarti cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped dill pickles
• 3 tablespoons softened butter, divided

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings

Directions

1. Place the bread on a work surface and spread mayonnaise evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
2. In a bowl, toss together the shredded havarti cheese and chopped dill pickles until well combined.
3. Divide the cheese and pickle mixture evenly among 4 slices of bread.
4. Place the remaining 4 slices of bread on top of the cheese and pickle mixture, mayo side down.
5. Spread half of the softened butter evenly on the tops of the sandwiches.
6. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
7. Place the sandwiches, buttered side down, in the skillet. Spread the remaining butter evenly over the tops of the sandwiches.
8. Cook until the bottom side is golden brown and toasted, about 4 minutes.
9. Flip the sandwiches and cook until the cheese is melted through and both sides of the bread are toasted, about 4 minutes more.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious sandwiches!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 667
• Total Fat: 33g (43% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 16g (80% DV)
• Cholesterol: 70mg (23% DV)
• Sodium: 1313mg (57% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 68g (25% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% DV)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 25g (49% DV)
• Calcium: 390mg (30% DV)
• Iron: 5mg (29% DV)
• Potassium: 239mg (5% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

The History of Pickle Grilled Cheese

The combination of pickles and cheese in a toasted sandwich may seem modern, but its roots trace back to mid-20th century America, when home cooks began experimenting with classic grilled cheese sandwiches by adding tangy elements to cut through the richness of melted cheese. The inclusion of pickles, particularly dill pickles, became popular in the 1950s and 1960s, coinciding with the post-war boom in convenience foods and sandwich culture. While traditional grilled cheese has been a comfort food staple for over a century, the pickle variant emerged as a creative twist, offering a balance of creamy, salty, and sour flavors.

Regional Variations

Pickle grilled cheese sandwiches are most commonly associated with the United States, but regional differences exist. In the Midwest, thick-cut sourdough or rye bread is often used, while the South favors lighter sandwich breads with a crisp exterior. Some regions incorporate local cheeses like Wisconsin cheddar or Monterey Jack instead of Havarti, and the type of pickles varies from sweet bread-and-butter to classic dill. Certain areas even add mustard or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the tangy flavor profile, making this sandwich uniquely versatile across different American locales.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While many sandwiches combine cheese and pickles, the pickle grilled cheese stands apart because of its method and ingredient ratio. Unlike a traditional cheeseburger, where pickles are a secondary ingredient, the pickle grilled cheese integrates chopped pickles evenly with the cheese before toasting, creating a harmonious blend in every bite. Compared to a Reuben, which combines pickles, corned beef, and sauerkraut, the pickle grilled cheese is purely vegetarian-friendly and relies solely on the contrast between melted cheese and crisp, tangy pickles.

Where It Is Commonly Served

Pickle grilled cheese is often found in casual American diners, cafes, and specialty sandwich shops. It has become a popular menu item for lunch menus, comfort food restaurants, and gastropubs looking to offer a twist on a classic. Home cooks frequently prepare it as a quick snack or lunch, pairing it with sides like dill pickle chips, tomato soup, or coleslaw. Its popularity is especially high in areas with strong comfort food traditions, where diners appreciate nostalgic dishes with a modern flavor upgrade.

Interesting Facts

• The idea of pairing pickles with cheese comes from the basic culinary principle of balancing fat and aciditypickles cut through the richness of melted cheese, enhancing flavor.
• Some gourmet versions of the sandwich use artisan pickles infused with spices like garlic, mustard seed, or chili flakes, creating unique taste profiles.
• The sandwich has inspired a trend of pickle-forward dishes, including grilled cheese with fried pickles or even mac and cheese stuffed pickles, highlighting its influence on modern comfort food experimentation.
• Pickle grilled cheese has occasionally appeared in competitive eating events and food festivals celebrating classic American sandwiches.
• Despite its novelty, it remains a simple and quick dish to prepare, with cooking time often under 15 minutes, making it both an easy snack and a gourmet treat.

FAQ about Pickle Grilled Cheese Recipe