Viral Pickle Sandwich with Crispy Cheese Bites Recipe

Ingredients

Pickle Bread

• 6–8 sandwich slice pickles like Vlasic sandwich stackers
• 1 cup medium cheddar cheese shredded

Meats and Toppings

• 8 slices genoa salami
• 8 slices pepperoni
• 4 slices turkey
• 1/2 head iceberg lettuce finely shredded
• 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup banana peppers chopped
• 1/2 tomato sliced

Italian Grinder Salad Dressing

• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder divided
• 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper

Instructions

1. Lay shredded cheddar cheese in two rectangles side by side on a parchment paper-lined pan, mimicking the size of a bread slice. Place 3-4 pickle slices side by side on top of the cheese rectangles, then sprinkle a little more cheese on top.
2. Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes. Check halfway through to ensure the pickles have not shifted; gently adjust if necessary. The cheese is done when the edges are browned and crispy.
3. While baking, mix mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, half of the parmesan cheese, half of the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and freshly cracked pepper in a medium bowl until smooth.
4. Add shredded iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped banana peppers to the dressing. Mix well until vegetables are evenly coated.
5. Remove the cheese-crusted pickles from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes before assembling.
6. If desired, lay the genoa salami, pepperoni, and turkey slices on a pan and broil for 1-2 minutes to warm through.
7. Place the warmed meats on top of one pickle cheese layer. Top with the prepared grinder salad, add sliced tomato, and finish with the second pickle cheese layer as the top “bread.” Slice carefully and serve immediately.

Notes

• Use medium cheddar cheese for a balanced flavor; sharp cheddar or flavored cheeses like dill havarti can be substituted based on preference.
• The pickle cheese “bread” can be stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to one week without losing texture.
• Broiling the meats is optional but enhances flavor and warmth of the sandwich.
• Adjust red wine vinegar quantity in the dressing to control tanginess based on taste.