Save to Pinterest A bold twist on tradition Rebel Float Grilled Cheese with Pickle Fix Dip Sauce was my answer to a craving for comfort food with more zip. Chewy golden bread and gooey cheese become next-level when matched with a tangy creamy dip packed with crunchy dill pickles. You would never guess such a simple lunch could be both cozy and unexpectedly craveable.
When I first made this, my husband was suspicious about adding pickles on the side. One bite and now it is our go-to rainy day sandwich.
Ingredients
- Sourdough bread: Brings a hearty chewy structure and crisp crust Choose loaves with a crunchy crust and soft crumb
- Unsalted butter: Lends richness and helps the bread become golden and crisp Look for high-quality butter for best flavor
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Gives punchy tang and melts beautifully Select slices with a deep orange color for maximum flavor
- Swiss cheese: Offers mild nuttiness and smooth melt Go for real Swiss with distinct holes for authenticity
- Provolone cheese: Brings creaminess and tad smoky notes Choose sandwich-cut deli slices for even melting
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a light kick Grind your own for best aroma
- Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the dip Choose full-fat for creamy texture
- Sour cream: Gives tang and lightness Use thick-style for ultimate creaminess
- Dill pickles: Give refreshing crunch and bold flavor Opt for refrigerated pickles with plenty of fresh dill
- Pickle juice: Adds tartness and pickle punch Splash in straight from the pickle jar
- Dijon mustard: Offers depth and subtle spice Pick a smooth good-quality brand
- Garlic powder: Gives mellow sharpness Check your spice for freshness
- Fresh dill: Optional but brings herby zip Choose bright green sprigs
- Salt and pepper: Brighten and balance flavors Taste as you go and adjust
Instructions
- Prepare the Pickle Fix Dip Sauce:
- In a small bowl combine mayonnaise and sour cream Stir until fully blended Add finely chopped dill pickles pickle juice Dijon mustard and garlic powder If you have fresh dill stir that in too Mix everything thoroughly until evenly combined Taste and season with a pinch of salt and a grind of pepper Cover and chill while you make the sandwiches This melding will let the flavors bloom
- Butter the Bread:
- Lay out your four slices of sourdough bread with the best looking sides facing outward Use a butter knife to spread soft butter evenly all the way to the edges on one side of each slice The more generous the coverage the crispier and more golden the finish
- Assemble the Cheese Layers:
- Place two slices of bread butter side down on a cutting board Layer one slice of sharp cheddar one slice of Swiss and one slice of provolone on each bread base Sprinkle a light dusting of black pepper over the cheese Top with the remaining bread slices butter side up so that the buttered outsides will be in contact with the pan
- Grill the Sandwiches:
- Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle to medium heat Gently lay your sandwiches into the pan A large spatula will help with this Let the first side cook undisturbed for about three to four minutes The bread should be deep golden not burnt so peek underneath and lower the heat if needed Press down gently with your spatula for extra contact and that classic diner squish Once golden flip with a wide spatula and repeat until second side matches and cheese inside has completely melted This might take another three to four minutes
- Cut and Serve:
- Move sandwiches to a cutting board and let them rest one minute before slicing diagonally into halves They will be easier to cut and cheese will not spill everywhere Serve hot with ramekins of chilled Pickle Fix Dip Sauce for dunking
Save to Pinterest My absolute favorite ingredient here is sharp cheddar Its bite stands above the gooey melt and balances the richness of butter and bread My daughter calls this the sandwich that makes the kitchen smell like a grilled cheese shop Every time she gets to dip her sandwich it is a moment worth savoring
Storage Tips
To store leftover sandwiches let them cool then wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container Refrigerate up to two days Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to bring back crispiness rather than microwaving which softens the bread The Pickle Fix Dip can be kept in a lidded jar in the fridge for up to five days
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap the cheese for your favorites Pepper jack or smoked gouda add boldness If you do not have sourdough try sturdy whole wheat or rustic white bread If you are vegan use plant-based mayo non-dairy cheese slices and vegan butter
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tomato soup for a classic combo Offer sliced fresh apples or pears alongside for a sweet contrast Pair with sweet potato fries or a lightly dressed green salad for a full meal
Cultural and Historical Context
Grilled cheese is a beloved staple across American cafeterias but every household puts their own stamp on it The Pickle Fix Dip channels flavors you might find at a playful deli adding brightness and a salty crunch reminiscent of pickle-topped burgers or deli platters
Seasonal Adaptations
Add fresh chives or green onions to the dip in spring Try thick tomato slices in summer when they are at their peak Opt for smoked cheese and serve with roasted tomato soup in the fall Layer on Baby spinach or arugula in winter for earthy greens
Save to Pinterest One friend said this is now her must-have after-school snack and the best grilled cheese dip combo she has ever tried. Enjoy every melty golden bite while it is hot.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different cheese combination?
Yes, try gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist. Mix and match your favorite melting cheeses.
- → How do I keep the bread crisp and golden?
Spread butter evenly on the outside of each slice and grill over medium heat, pressing gently as you cook.
- → Is the Pickle Fix Dip Sauce essential?
The dip sauce adds tang and creaminess but the sandwich can stand alone or pair with tomato soup if preferred.
- → What tips prevent soggy grilled cheese?
Use thick sourdough bread and grill until the outside is deeply golden before serving immediately for best texture.
- → What sides suit this grilled cheese?
Tomato soup, crispy fries, or a fresh salad complement the flavors and make a hearty meal.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
This dish is vegetarian if cheeses and mayonnaise are free from animal-rennet and related additives.