Ever had one of those days when you just need something crispy, cheesy, and downright comforting? Look no further because Cheesy Bacon Fried Pickles are about to become your go-to treat! Originating as a beloved bar snack, these little bites of joy bring together the tangy crunch of pickles with the savory richness of bacon and cheese, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy coating. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, enjoying a family night in, or just treating yourself to something special, these fried pickles are sure to hit the spot.
Imagine biting into a crunchy pickle chip, only to be met with the gooey goodness of melted cheddar and the smoky flavor of bacon. It’s a flavor explosion that’s impossible to resist. And the best part? They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy. So, let’s get frying!
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible fried pickles:
- 1 jar (16 oz) dill pickle chips: Drain them well and pat them dry to ensure a crispy coating.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The key to that gooey, cheesy center.
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds smoky, savory flavor to each bite.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: For the first layer of the breading process.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the pickles.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Gives the pickles their crispy, crunchy exterior.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a bit of savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a touch of smoky flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
- Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for frying.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Frying Up the Goodness
Let’s get down to business and make these cheesy bacon fried pickles!
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Mix the cheese and bacon: In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. This mixture will be your delicious filling. Set it aside for now.
Step 2: Stuff the Pickles
- Top the pickles: Take each pickle chip and place a small amount of the cheese and bacon mixture on top. Press gently to help it stick to the pickle. You want enough filling to be indulgent but not so much that it overflows when frying.
Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station
- Prepare the coating: Set up three separate bowls for the breading process. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, have your beaten eggs ready. In the third bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoned panko mixture will give your pickles that extra kick of flavor.
Step 4: Coat the Pickles
- Bread the pickles: One by one, take each stuffed pickle chip and dip it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the seasoned panko bread crumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
Step 5: Fry the Pickles
- Heat the oil: In a frying pan, heat about an inch of oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough to fry the pickles to a golden brown but not so hot that they burn quickly—around 350°F is ideal.
- Fry the pickles: Fry the pickles in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Plate and dip: Serve your cheesy bacon fried pickles warm, with your favorite dipping sauce on the side. Ranch dressing or blue cheese dip are classics, but feel free to get creative with your dips!
Variations & Tips: Make It Your Own
While these cheesy bacon fried pickles are delicious as-is, there’s always room for customization. Here are some ideas to try:
Spice Things Up
- Add heat: If you like your snacks with a bit of a kick, add some cayenne pepper to the panko mixture or use spicy dill pickle chips for an extra zing.
Go Gluten-Free
- Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko. You’ll get that same crispy texture without the gluten.
Vegetarian Twist
- Skip the bacon: For a vegetarian version, simply leave out the bacon. You can use a bacon-flavored seasoning if you still want that smoky taste, or just enjoy the cheesy goodness on its own.
Healthier Air-Fried Pickles
- Air fryer method: If you’re looking to cut down on the oil, these pickles can be air-fried. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, place the breaded pickles in a single layer in the basket, and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll come out just as crispy with less grease.
Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings for Your Pickles
These cheesy bacon fried pickles are versatile and can be served in various ways:
- With a Dipping Sauce: Ranch or blue cheese dressing are the go-to options, but a spicy aioli or honey mustard would also complement the flavors beautifully.
- As an Appetizer: Serve these pickles as a snack at your next party, and watch them disappear! Pair them with other finger foods like chicken wings or mozzarella sticks for a tasty spread.
- With a Light Salad: Balance out the richness of the pickles with a fresh, crisp salad. A tangy coleslaw or a mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette would be a perfect match.
- With Grilled Meats: If you’re making a meal out of it, serve the pickles alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or even a steak. The tangy, cheesy, and crunchy pickles add a fun contrast to any hearty dish.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Bacon Fried Pickles are the ultimate indulgence, combining the tangy crunch of pickles with the rich flavors of cheese and bacon, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden crust. Whether you’re making them for a casual get-together, a fun family snack, or just because you’re craving something deliciously different, these pickles are sure to become a new favorite.
So, grab a jar of pickles, fire up the frying pan, and get ready to enjoy a snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. And don’t forget the dipping sauce—it’s the perfect finishing touch to these irresistible treats. Happy cooking!
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Cheesy Bacon Fried Pickles
Ingredients Â
- 1 jar 16 oz dill pickle chips, drained and patted dry
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying vegetable or canola
InstructionsÂ
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Set aside.
- Stuff the Pickles:
- Place a small amount of the cheese and bacon mixture on top of each pickle chip, pressing gently to adhere.
- Set Up the Breading Station:
- Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko bread crumbs mixed with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Pickles:
- Dip each stuffed pickle chip in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the seasoned panko bread crumbs, pressing lightly to ensure good adhesion.
- Fry the Pickles:
- Heat about an inch of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the pickles in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch dressing or blue cheese dip.