Ingredients
- Sourdough or White Bread: 2 slices
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 ounces (or 2 thick slices)
- Unsalted Butter (softened): 1 tablespoon
- Mayonnaise: 1 tablespoon (for outer spread)
- Cream Cheese (softened): 1 tablespoon
- Dill Pickles (thinly sliced chips or spears): 8-10 slices
- Dried Dill Weed: 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the flavor spread by combining the 1 tablespoon of softened cream cheese and the 1/4 teaspoon of dried dill weed in a small bowl until smooth. Thinly slice the dill pickles if they are not already chip-cut.
- Step 2: Assemble the interior of the sandwich. Spread the dill cream cheese mixture evenly over one side of one slice of bread. Layer the cheese slices over the spread, and then arrange the 8-10 thin dill pickle slices evenly over the cheese. Top with the second slice of bread.
- Step 3: Prepare the exterior for grilling. Spread the softened unsalted butter evenly over one exterior side of the sandwich, and the mayonnaise evenly over the other exterior side.
- Step 4: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwich butter-side down on the skillet. Cover the skillet loosely and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Step 5: Flip the sandwich and cook the mayonnaise side for another 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and the second side is golden brown. Remove from the skillet, slice in half diagonally, and serve immediately.
Notes
- To prep ahead, assemble the interior of the sandwich completely (layers of spread, cheese, and pickles) and store wrapped tightly in the fridge for up to 12 hours, only adding the exterior butter and mayonnaise right before grilling.
- If you find yourself with leftovers, reheat the sandwich in an air fryer or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes to restore the crispy crust far better than a microwave ever could.
- Balance the richness of the cheese and the tang of the pickles by serving the sandwich alongside a fresh cup of creamy tomato soup or a simple, crisp coleslaw.
- For guaranteed meltiness without burning the bread, keep the heat strictly at medium-low and cover the skillet loosely during the first cook cycle to gently steam and fully soften the sharp cheddar and cream cheese layers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American