Dill Pickle Bacon Grilled Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This Dill Pickle Bacon Melt is a simple and delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese. Salty bacon and tangy pickles pair perfectly with melted cheese between buttery, toasted bread. It’s an easy, satisfying meal ready in minutes. For another quick comfort food idea, try the Mini Tater Tot Cheeseburgers Recipe.
Ingredients
This Dill Pickle Bacon Melt delivers a satisfying crunch from the tangy pickles and crispy bacon, all enveloped in a gooey, melted cheese embrace that’s perfectly golden on the outside.
- 4 slices bacon
- 2 slices white bread
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large dill pickle, sliced
- 2 slices processed cheese
- 2 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
Timing
Prep Time | 10 minutes |
Cook Time | 15 minutes |
Total Time | 25 minutes |
Context: This Dill Pickle Bacon Melt recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it a quick and easy meal option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Bacon
Lay 6 slices of thick-cut bacon in a single layer on a cold skillet. Turn heat to medium and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
For even crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan. If needed, cook in batches.
Step 2 — Toast the Bread
While the bacon cooks, lightly butter 4 slices of sourdough or rye bread on one side. Place butter-side down in a separate skillet over medium heat.
Toast for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 3 — Slice Pickles and Cheese
Thinly slice 4–5 dill pickles into rounds. Shred or thinly slice 6 ounces of sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese.
Using a mandoline ensures uniform pickle slices for even distribution in your Dill Pickle Bacon Melt.
Step 4 — Assemble the Sandwiches
Place two slices of toasted bread, toasted-side down. Layer half the cheese, all the pickle slices, and the crispy bacon. Top with remaining cheese and the second slice of bread, toasted-side up.
Press down gently to help the layers adhere during cooking.
Step 5 — Cook the Melt
Return the skillet to medium-low heat. Add assembled sandwiches and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, covered, until the bread is deeply golden and cheese begins to melt.
Covering the pan traps steam, helping the cheese melt evenly without burning the bread.
Step 6 — Check for Doneness
Lift the edge of a sandwich with a spatula—the bottom should be crisp and browned. The cheese should be fully melted when you peek inside.
If the bread browns too quickly, reduce heat to low to finish melting the cheese.
Step 7 — Rest and Serve
Transfer your Dill Pickle Bacon Melt to a cutting board and let rest for 1–2 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly for cleaner slicing.
Slice diagonally and serve immediately while hot and gooey.
Nutritional Information
Calories | 520 |
Protein | 22g |
Carbohydrates | 28g |
Fat | 35g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sodium | 1420mg |
Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.
Healthier Alternatives
- Turkey bacon — Leaner protein with a smoky flavor that pairs well with the tangy dill pickle.
- Lettuce wrap — Lower-carb option that adds freshness and crunch to your Dill Pickle Bacon Melt.
- Dairy-free cheese — Plant-based alternative that melts well and complements the savory bacon.
- Gluten-free bread — Perfect for a celiac-friendly Dill Pickle Bacon Melt without sacrificing texture.
- Low-sodium pickles — Reduces salt content while keeping the signature tangy crunch.
- Avocado oil mayo — Healthier fat profile with a creamy texture that enhances the melt.
- Whole grain mustard — Adds depth and fiber without overpowering the dill and bacon flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Dill Pickle Bacon Melt with a side of crispy french fries or crunchy potato chips for a classic comfort food experience.
- Serve this Dill Pickle Bacon Melt alongside a fresh green salad or coleslaw to balance the rich, savory flavors.
- Perfect for game day gatherings, this sandwich makes an excellent addition to any party platter or casual get-together.
- For a fun twist, cut the Dill Pickle Bacon Melt into smaller portions and serve as sliders for easy sharing at events.
- Elevate your presentation by plating the sandwich with extra dill pickle spears and a drizzle of the signature sauce on the side.
- This Dill Pickle Bacon Melt pairs wonderfully with a cold beer or a tangy lemonade for a refreshing beverage match.
Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends, these serving ideas will make your Dill Pickle Bacon Melt the star of the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake: Using flimsy bread that becomes soggy. Fix: Opt for a sturdy sourdough or thick-cut Texas toast to maintain structure.
- Mistake: Overpowering the sandwich with too much pickle juice. Fix: Pat your dill pickle slices dry with a paper towel before assembling.
- Mistake: Under-crisping the bacon, leading to a chewy, greasy texture. Fix: Cook bacon until very crisp; it will soften slightly from the cheese melt.
- Mistake: Choosing a cheese that doesn’t melt well. Fix: Use high-moisture cheeses like provolone, Swiss, or American for optimal gooeyness.
- Mistake: Applying butter or mayo directly to a cold pan. Fix: Let your spreadable fat soften at room temperature for even browning.
- Mistake: Cooking the Dill Pickle Bacon Melt on too high heat, burning the outside. Fix: Use a medium-low heat for a slow, thorough melt and golden crust.
- Mistake: Skipping the press, resulting in a loose, un-melted sandwich. Fix: Use a cast-iron press or a heavy skillet to weigh it down while cooking.
- Mistake: Adding cold ingredients straight from the fridge. Fix: Bring cheese and pickles to room temp for a faster, more even melt.
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Store your Dill Pickle Bacon Melt in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag; it will keep for up to 1 month.
- Reheat: For best results, reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Always allow your Dill Pickle Bacon Melt to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing to maintain food safety and quality.
Conclusion
This Dill Pickle Bacon Melt is the ultimate comfort food upgrade. If you love this recipe, try our Crispy Pickle Cheese Bites Recipe next. Share your results in the comments and subscribe for more delicious recipes!
PrintDill Pickle Bacon Grilled Cheese
A unique twist on the classic grilled cheese, featuring crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and crunchy dill pickles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 1x
- Method: Main Dish/Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon
- 2 slices white bread
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large dill pickle sliced
- 2 slices processed cheese
- 2 ounces cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a pan until crisp. Drain on paper towel.
- Remove most of the bacon grease from the pan. Add the butter to the pan and cook on medium-low heat until melted.
- Add two slices of bread to the pan and top one slice with the shredded cheese and bacon, and the second slice with the processed cheese. Cover the skillet and cook until the cheese has melted and the bread is golden on the bottom.
- Once melted, add the pickle slices and close the sandwich. Serve immediately.
Notes
This recipe combines the savory flavors of bacon and cheese with the tangy crunch of dill pickles, creating a delightful twist on a classic grilled cheese. Ensure the pan is not too hot to prevent burning the bread. Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: 662
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 1736
- Fat: 45
- Saturated Fat: 23
- Unsaturated Fat: 22
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 31
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 33
- Cholesterol: 115
FAQs
Can I make a Dill Pickle Bacon Melt ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble and cook your Dill Pickle Bacon Melt just before serving. Preparing it ahead can make the bread soggy from the pickle brine and other ingredients.
What type of bread works best for a Dill Pickle Bacon Melt?
Thick-sliced sourdough or rye bread works wonderfully for a Dill Pickle Bacon Melt. These sturdy breads hold up well to the fillings and get deliciously crispy when grilled.
How can I make my Dill Pickle Bacon Melt extra crispy?
For an extra crispy Dill Pickle Bacon Melt, cook the bacon until very crisp before assembling. Also, butter the outside of the bread generously and grill over medium heat until golden brown.