Irresistible Pickle Grilled Cheese with Fresh Herbs Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

When life gets hectic and fast food beckons, I find solace in the kitchen, crafting something comforting yet satisfying. One day, while rummaging through my fridge, I stumbled upon a jar of dill pickles that seemed to whisper, Let s do something fun! That s when the idea for my Pickle Grilled Cheese was born.

Imagine the nutty crunch of toasted sourdough enveloping melty fontina and cheddar, perfectly balanced by the bright, tangy flavor of pickles and a hint of herbs. This isn t your average grilled cheese; it s an unexpected twist that s both easy to make and pure magic on your taste buds. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch, it s a dish sure to bring a smile to anyone or at least an enthusiastic yes! to homemade goodness. Grab your spatula and join me in turning those weeknight meals into deliciously memorable moments!

Why is Pickle Grilled Cheese so special?

Unique Flavor Combination: The unexpected pairing of tangy pickles with creamy cheeses creates a delightful bite that will surprise and please your taste buds.
Fresh Herbs: The addition of chives and dill elevates this comfort food classic, making it fresh and fragrant.
Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just minutes and a cook time of only 3-5 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you re serving it for lunch or as a snack, everyone will be reaching for seconds.
Soul-Warming Comfort: There s nothing quite like a gooey, warm grilled cheese that makes you feel right at home. You might also want to check out my delicious ranch dipping sauce to take your sandwich experience to the next level!

Pickle Grilled Cheese Ingredients

Get ready to make a delightful twist on a classic!

For the Herb Butter

• Butter 4 tablespoons, divided; this adds richness and flavor to your sandwich.
• Chives 2 tablespoons, fresh, finely chopped; they introduce a mild onion flavor that brightens each bite.
• Dill 2 tablespoons, fresh, finely chopped; this herb pairs beautifully with pickles, enhancing the dish s essence.
• Sriracha to taste; for those who like a little kick! Adjust it for your spice preference.
• Kosher Salt to taste; don t forget to season for the best flavor!
• Black Pepper to taste; adds a bit of warmth and balances the flavors.

For the Sandwich

• Sourdough Bread 4 pieces, sliced; this is perfect for a crispy, golden exterior.
• Fontina Cheese ½ cup, shredded, divided; it melts beautifully, adding creaminess to your sandwich.
• Cheddar Cheese ½ cup, shredded, divided; its sharpness perfectly contrasts the tanginess of the pickles.
• Dill Pickles 8 slices; the star of your Pickle Grilled Cheese, providing that tangy crunch!

For Serving

• Ranch Dressing for dipping; adds a creamy complement to your sandwich. Feel free to mix things up with homemade ranch for an extra touch!

How to Make Pickle Grilled Cheese

1. Mix the Herb Butter: In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of softened butter, chives, dill, a squirt of sriracha, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until creamy and well-blended, creating a delightful herb-infused spread.

2. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread half of the herb butter mixture on two slices of sourdough. Layer one slice with cup of fontina and cheddar cheeses, then add 4 slices of dill pickles evenly on top. Top with another cup of cheese, then place another slice of sourdough on top. Repeat for the second sandwich.

3. Grill the Sandwiches: In a large skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet, pressing down lightly. Cook for 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and the bottom is beautifully golden.

4. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the sandwiches diagonally, if desired, and serve immediately with additional fresh dill and ranch dressing on the side for dipping.

Optional: Garnish with extra dill, for a fresh and vibrant touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Pickle Grilled Cheese Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful sandwich to suit your taste and dietary needs!

• Vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and replace cheeses with vegan cheese options to create a delicious dairy-free version.
  For an extra flavor boost, try adding some nutritional yeast to your herb mix for a cheesy essence without the dairy.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread in place of sourdough for a tasty, safe alternative without sacrificing texture or flavor.
  This way, you can still enjoy the crispy, golden goodness while accommodating dietary restrictions!

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices or crushed red pepper flakes to the herb butter to spice things up.
  Feeling adventurous? You could even toss in a spicy cheese combination for a warm, flavorful kick!

• Herb-Infused: Mix in additional herbs like basil or oregano to the herb butter for a fresh twist.
  Experiment with your favorite herbs to create a flavor profile that will take your grilled cheese on a culinary journey!

• Bacon-Boosted: Incorporate crispy bacon or turkey bacon for a savory, smoky element that compliments the pickles perfectly.
  The delightful crunch of bacon paired with the creamy cheeses will truly elevate this classic!

• Pickle Brine: Brush a hint of pickle brine on the bread before grilling for an extra tangy flavor.
  This tangy essence seeps into the sandwich, giving each bite a delightful zing that celebrates the pickles!

• Sweet Balance: Layer thin slices of apple or pear alongside the pickles for a beautiful sweet and savory contrast.
  The crisp sweetness pairs seamlessly with the creamy cheeses and tangy pickles, creating a more balanced bite!

• Cheese Overflow: Use different cheese combinations like gouda or brie to switch up the meltiness factor.
  This will give your sandwich a rich, gooey quality that s hard to resist, ensuring every bite is decadently cheesy!

How to Store and Freeze Pickle Grilled Cheese

Room Temperature: Keep your Pickle Grilled Cheese at room temperature for no more than 2 hours after cooking to ensure it stays safe and delicious.

Fridge: Store leftover grilled cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the bread from getting too soggy and maintain its flavor.

Freezer: If you want to save extras, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To enjoy again, reheat on a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side, or pop them in the toaster until crispy and the cheese is melted.

Make Ahead Options

These Pickle Grilled Cheese sandwiches are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the herb butter and assemble the sandwiches up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix your herb butter and spread it on the sourdough, layering the cheeses and pickles as usual. Wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them fresh. When you re ready to enjoy your delicious grilled cheese, just take them out, heat your skillet, and grill for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden and gooey. This way, you preserve the sandwich s vibrant flavors and textures, ensuring a comforting meal that feels just as special!

What to Serve with Pickle Grilled Cheese?

It s time to craft a delightful meal that perfectly complements your crispy, cheesy creation!

• Tomato Soup: The classic pairing; its rich flavors beautifully balance the tanginess of pickles while creating a comforting experience.
• Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned with herbs and spices, they add a crunchy texture that enhances your grilled cheese adventure.
• Simple Green Salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, it offers freshness and lightness, making your meal feel vibrant and wholesome.
• Coleslaw: Creamy and tangy, it brings a crunchy element and an extra punch of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the grilled cheese.
• Pickled Veggies: For those who love more tang, pickled carrots or radishes bring that satisfying crunch and acidity to round out the meal.
• Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate, its citrus notes harmonize beautifully with the herb-infused grilled cheese.
• Brownies: End your meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies; their richness contrasts delightfully with the savory flavors of the sandwich.

Expert Tips for Pickle Grilled Cheese

• Herb Butter Magic: Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing. This allows the herbs and spices to infuse beautifully into the spread.
• Cheese Blend: Use high-quality cheese for the best melting effect. Mixing fontina with cheddar adds both creaminess and depth of flavor to your Pickle Grilled Cheese.
• Pickle Placement: Arrange the pickles evenly to avoid sogginess; this ensures every bite is balanced with texture and flavor without overwhelming the sandwich.
• Perfect Grill: Keep an eye on the heat! Medium heat works best to achieve a golden exterior without burning the bread, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly.
• Savvy Seasoning: Don t forget to season both the herb butter and the cheese layers properly. This is key to enhancing all the flavors in your sandwich.

Pickle Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pickles for my Pickle Grilled Cheese?
Absolutely! Look for dill pickles that are firm and crunchy, avoiding any that have dark spots all over the surface. The best ones are often labeled as crunchy or made with fresh dill. For an added tang, you might also try bread and butter pickles, if you enjoy a sweeter flavor profile.

What is the best way to store leftover Pickle Grilled Cheese?
After enjoying your delicious sandwiches, make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for up to 3 days. This method helps maintain the flavors while preventing the bread from getting too soggy. Just reheat them gently on a skillet when you re ready for round two!

Can I freeze Pickle Grilled Cheese for later?
Of course! To freeze your Pickle Grilled Cheese, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap in foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to 1 month in the freezer. When you re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until the cheese is melty and the bread is toasty.

What should I do if my grilled sandwich is burning before the cheese melts?
Very! If you find the bread browning too quickly while the cheese isn t melting, reduce the heat. Cook the sandwich on medium-low, allowing the bread to slowly toast and the cheese to melt perfectly. You might also cover the skillet with a lid for a couple of minutes this helps trap heat and melt the cheese more effectively without burning the bread.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you re making this for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free bread and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Always check labels for allergens, especially with butter and cheese. If you re serving this to pets, avoid giving them the pickles, sriracha, or the ranch dip, as they can be harmful to their health.