Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles Recipe
If you are on the hunt for a snack that combines tangy, crispy, and gooey all in one bite, this Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles Recipe will become your new obsession. Imagine the crunch of perfectly fried breading giving way to a warm, melty cheese center hugged by the bright, juicy snap of dill pickles. It’s comfort food elevated to an entirely new level that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Whether you’re craving something salty and savory or looking to impress at your next gathering, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a fun and delicious way that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on the ingredients for this Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in making this dish unforgettable. From the tangy pickles that provide the signature zing to the blend of cheeses that melts perfectly, every component is essential for that unbeatable flavor and texture combination.
- 12 large dill pickles: Choose firm, crunchy pickles to hold the stuffing without falling apart during frying.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds a creamy base to the stuffing for that luscious melt.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, classic flavor depth and a satisfying gooey texture.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides stretch and a milder note to balance the cheddar.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances savory richness without overpowering the pickles.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder: Adds a subtle background sweetness and complexity.
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika: Lends a gentle smoky warmth that’s a wonderful contrast to the pickles.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Gives a subtle bite to round out the flavors.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Creates a light barrier so the coating sticks and crisps evenly.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the glue for breadcrumbs and flour, ensuring each bite stays intact.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Offers the signature crunchy, airy crust that makes these pickles irresistible.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Neutral flavor and high smoke point, perfect for getting that golden crust.
- Optional: ranch dressing or dipping sauce: Classic companions that elevate every bite with creamy tang.
How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pickles
Start by slicing your large dill pickles lengthwise into halves or quarters, depending on how stuffed and crispy you like them. The pickle shape sets the stage to hold that glorious cheese filling perfectly, making sure each bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Blend this until it’s smooth and creamy, forming a rich, flavorful filling that will complement the tangy pickles beautifully.
Step 3: Stuff the Pickles
With a spoon (and your fingers if needed), carefully fill each pickle half or quarter with the cheese mixture. Press the stuffing in thoroughly so that it stays put during frying. This is the secret to having a gorgeous gooey center that doesn’t leak out.
Step 4: Set Up Your Breading Station
Create three shallow dishes—one for the flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the panko breadcrumbs. This setup makes the breading process efficient and ensures an even crispy coating that will fry up golden and crunchy.
Step 5: Bread the Pickles
First, coat each stuffed pickle in flour to help the egg stick better. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully covered. Finally, press it into the panko breadcrumbs, covering every nook and cranny. This triple layer ensures that signature crunch and keeps the cheese inside while frying.
Step 6: Heat the Oil
Pour about one inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high until it reaches roughly 350°F (175°C). The oil should be shimmering but not smoking. This temperature is perfect for frying without absorbing too much oil or burning.
Step 7: Fry Until Golden
Carefully place your breaded stuffed pickles into the hot oil. Fry them for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning gently so they become a lovely golden brown on all sides. This quick fry keeps the pickles juicy inside, with a crispy exterior everyone loves.
Step 8: Drain Excess Oil
Once fried, transfer your Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles to a paper towel-lined plate. This step is crucial to soak up any extra oil and keep each bite perfectly crisp without greasiness.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while they’re hot and melty, paired with your go-to ranch dressing or other favorite dipping sauces. Watching friends and family dive into these cheesy delicious treats is pure joy.
How to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that enhances the overall flavor. A light dusting of smoked paprika on top can also highlight the warm spices inside your fried pickles beautifully.
Side Dishes
These stuffed fried pickles are fantastic on their own but also shine alongside crispy French fries, a cool coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. For parties, they’re a standout appetizer served with an array of dipping sauces like spicy sriracha mayo or tangy honey mustard.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your guests by serving them on a wooden board with colorful dipping bowls or stacking them in a fun pickle tower for a playful presentation. For a twist, try spearing them with cocktail picks and serving as finger foods at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the best texture, lay them in a single layer with paper towels to absorb any moisture.
Freezing
While these are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze unbattered, stuffed pickles by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw in the fridge before breading and frying for that just-made crispiness.
Reheating
To reheat leftover fried pickles, skip the microwave to avoid sogginess. Instead, pop them in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crisp again. They’ll taste almost as good as fresh!
FAQs
Can I use other types of pickles for this recipe?
Absolutely! While dill pickles are traditional and provide a perfect tang, sweet pickles or bread-and-butter pickles can add a unique twist. Just be sure they’re firm enough to hold the stuffing and frying process.
What cheese works best for stuffed fried pickles?
A blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella is ideal. Cream cheese provides creaminess, cheddar adds sharpness, and mozzarella gives that fantastic melt and stretch. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses as long as they melt well.
Is it possible to bake these instead of frying?
You can bake them, but frying gives the best crunchy texture. If baking, coat them well with oil or cooking spray and bake at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, though they won’t be quite as crispy.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to enjoy these crispy, cheesy delights without gluten worries.
What dipping sauces pair well with this recipe?
Classic ranch dressing is a crowd-pleaser, but spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or a cool blue cheese dip all complement the flavors beautifully and add fun variety.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles Recipe is truly a game-changer for snack lovers everywhere. It combines simple ingredients into a memorable treat that is crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Perfect for sharing or indulging solo, it’s a recipe that’s easy to make yet instantly impressive. I know once you try these, they’ll quickly become one of your favorites to whip up whenever the craving for something delicious hits. So grab those pickles and get ready for a crunchy, melty celebration of flavor!
Print
Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Crispy, golden fried pickles stuffed with a creamy, flavorful blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella, enhanced with garlic, onion, and smoked paprika spices. Perfect as an irresistible appetizer or snack served with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Pickles
- 12 large dill pickles, whole or sliced lengthwise
Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Breading
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional
- Ranch dressing or dipping sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Pickles: If using whole pickles, slice them lengthwise into halves or quarters according to your desired stuffing size.
- Make Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
- Stuff Pickles: Carefully spoon the cheese mixture into each pickle piece. Use your fingers if necessary to firmly press the filling inside to ensure they are well-packed.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow dishes with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs respectively for coating.
- Bread Stuffed Pickles: Dredge each stuffed pickle first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs adhere well.
- Heat Oil: Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C), hot but not smoking.
- Fry Pickles: Carefully place the breaded pickles into the hot oil. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove fried pickles with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy stuffed fried pickles hot and crispy with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature is correctly maintained to avoid greasy or undercooked pickles.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
- Adjust seasoning in the cheese mixture to taste, adding more or less paprika or garlic powder as preferred.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Alternative dipping sauces like spicy mayo or blue cheese complement well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
