Smoky bacon, melty cheddar and Swiss, and tangy dill pickles layered between buttery, golden bread — this grilled sandwich is next-level comfort food with a zesty twist.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: ~15 minutes
Servings: 1 sandwich
Dietary: Comfort food
Ingredients
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Bacon – 2 slices
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Bread – 2 slices (white, sourdough, or your favorite)
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Unsalted butter – 1 tbsp
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Dill pickles – 4 slices
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Swiss cheese – 2 slices
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Cheddar cheese – 2 slices
Instructions
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Cook the bacon: In a skillet or oven, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
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Prepare the bread: Spread butter evenly over one side of each bread slice.
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Assemble the sandwich: Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in a preheated skillet. Layer cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, dill pickle slices, and Swiss cheese. Top with the second bread slice, buttered side out.
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Grill the sandwich: Cook over medium-low heat, pressing gently, for 3–4 minutes per side, until bread is golden and cheese is fully melted.
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Serve: Slice in half and enjoy hot.
Quick Notes & Pro Tips
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Low and slow: Use medium-low heat so the cheese melts before the bread gets too dark.
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Crispier finish: Press gently with a spatula for a panini-like effect.
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Pickle prep: Pat pickles dry to avoid a soggy sandwich.
Why You’ll Love It
This isn’t your average grilled cheese. The smoky bacon and creamy melted cheeses are perfectly balanced by the bright, tangy crunch of dill pickles — an addicting combination in every bite.
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
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Bread: Sourdough or rye adds a heartier texture.
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Cheese: Swap Swiss for provolone or add pepper jack for heat.
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Pickles: Try bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter twist.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
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Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a smear of hot mustard.
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Deli-style: Layer in smoked turkey or ham for a heartier melt.
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Dip it: Serve with tomato soup or a creamy ranch dressing.
Storage & Make-Ahead
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Best fresh: Enjoy immediately for the crispiest texture.
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Reheat: Warm in a skillet or air fryer to restore crunch (avoid microwaving).
FAQs
Q: Can I make this without bacon?
A: Absolutely — swap in turkey bacon or skip for a vegetarian version.
Q: Can I make this in a panini press?
A: Yes! A press will create even more melt and crispness.
Personal Note
This sandwich is one of my favorite “guilty pleasure” lunches — a mashup of a grilled cheese and a deli pickle plate. It’s easy, indulgent, and deeply satisfying.