Pickle Bacon Grilled Cheese

This dill pickle bacon grilled cheese takes the classic comfort sandwich to a whole new level of flavor with its perfect combination of tangy, savory, and creamy elements. The contrast between crispy bacon, cool dill pickles, and melty cheese creates an irresistible sandwich that will satisfy even the most discerning grilled cheese connoisseurs.

I first made this sandwich during a rainy weekend when my pantry was nearly empty. What started as a desperate fridge raid has become our family's most requested sandwich. My kids now specifically ask for "that pickle cheese thing" at least once a week.

• Bacon adds smoky richness and crispy texture that transforms a basic grilled cheese into something special. Choose thick cut for the best texture
• Bread the foundation of any great grilled cheese. Use a quality sourdough or country loaf that can stand up to the filling
• Unsalted butter creates that perfect golden crust. Room temperature butter spreads more easily without tearing bread
• Dill pickles provide a bright tanginess that cuts through the richness. Look for pickles with a good snap and bold flavor
• Swiss cheese melts beautifully and brings a mild nutty flavor. Opt for authentic Swiss rather than processed varieties
• Cheddar cheese delivers that classic sharp flavor and orange hue. Medium or sharp both work well depending on your preference

How To Make Dill Pickle Bacon Grilled Cheese

Prepare the bacon:

Cook your bacon in a skillet over medium heat until perfectly crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes turning occasionally. The bacon should be well done as limp bacon ruins the textural contrast. Transfer to paper towels to remove excess grease while maintaining crispness.

Butter the bread:

Take your room temperature butter and spread it evenly across one side of each bread slice. Ensure complete coverage edge to edge for that perfect golden crust. The butter layer should be thin but visible.

Build the sandwich:

Place one slice of bread butter side down in a cold skillet. Layer first with cheddar cheese which creates a barrier so the bread doesn't get soggy. Next add the crispy bacon pieces, arranging them to cover the entire surface. Layer pickle slices evenly over bacon, then top with Swiss cheese. Cover with the second slice of bread, butter side facing up.

Grill to perfection:

Cook over medium low heat for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown, gently pressing down occasionally with a spatula to help the cheese melt and components adhere. Carefully flip using a wide spatula and cook another 3 minutes until both sides are crispy golden and all cheese is thoroughly melted.

This sandwich reminds me of summer visits to my grandparents' lake house where we would make creative sandwiches with whatever was in the fridge after swimming all day. The combination of dill pickles and bacon was discovered during one of these improvised meals, and it's remained a family favorite for three generations now.

The Perfect Bread Choice

Choosing the right bread makes all the difference in a grilled cheese sandwich. While white sandwich bread works in a pinch, artisanal sourdough or a hearty country loaf provides better structure and flavor. The bread should be sliced about half an inch thick to withstand the filling while still allowing the heat to properly melt the cheese. Avoid bread that's too soft or too airy as it may collapse under the weight of the fillings or become soggy from the pickle moisture.

Cheese Selection Matters

The combination of Swiss and cheddar isn't just delicious it's strategic. The Swiss cheese melts exceptionally well creating those coveted cheese pulls when you take a bite. Meanwhile the sharper cheddar provides the classic grilled cheese flavor we all crave. For an even more gourmet version consider substituting Gruyère for the Swiss or a smoked cheddar for regular cheddar. Just ensure whatever cheese you choose melts well. Presliced cheese works fine but freshly sliced from a block often melts more smoothly and has better flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This sandwich stands beautifully on its own but pairing it with the right side elevates the meal. A cup of tomato soup creates the classic comfort food combination perfect for chilly evenings. For a lighter option serve with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette the acidity helps cut through the richness of the sandwich. During summer months cold potato salad or coleslaw makes an excellent accompaniment. For an extra touch of decadence serve with a small ramekin of additional pickle slices or even a pickle spear on the side.

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of bread works best for this sandwich?

While the recipe is flexible, sourdough or country white bread work exceptionally well as they have good structure to hold the fillings and develop a nice crust. Whole grain bread can add nutty flavor, but any sturdy sandwich bread will work nicely.

→ Can I substitute the cheese varieties?

Absolutely! While Swiss and cheddar provide a nice balance of flavor and melt, you can substitute with provolone, Havarti, Gouda, or American cheese. For best results, include at least one cheese that melts smoothly.

→ How do I prevent my sandwich from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, pat the pickle slices dry with paper towels before adding them to the sandwich. Also, make sure your bacon is well-drained of excess grease, and cook over medium-low heat to allow even melting without burning.

→ What can I serve with this sandwich?

This sandwich pairs wonderfully with classics like tomato soup, potato chips, or a simple green salad. For a more substantial meal, serve with sweet potato fries or a cup of roasted vegetable soup.

→ Can I prepare components ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the bacon ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to make your sandwich, just assemble and grill. Pre-cooked bacon may need less time on the grill to warm through.

→ How can I make this sandwich spicier?

Add heat by including thinly sliced jalapeños, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or spread a thin layer of sriracha mayonnaise on the inside of the bread before assembling.