Okay, let’s talk about the ultimate snack or appetizer: Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles. Picture this: crispy, golden, salty pickles that are stuffed with a creamy, melty cheese filling, then fried to perfection. Seriously, it’s like the best of both worlds—savory, tangy pickles and rich, gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crunchy coating that’s just pure magic. These little beauties are perfect for game days, a fun dinner side, or even just when you’re craving something totally irresistible.
Every bite is packed with bold flavors, and they’re surprisingly easy to make. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. They’re the kind of dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds, so be ready to share (or not!).
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles
This recipe isn’t just a snack—it’s a game-changer. Here’s why you’re going to love it:
Irresistible Crunch: The crispy coating gives way to that melty, cheesy center that will make you do a happy dance. Crunchy on the outside, gooey on the inside—it’s the best of both worlds.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and a quick fry, you can turn ordinary pickles into a mouthwatering snack in no time.
Customizable: Feel free to play around with the cheese filling. Want something with a little kick? Try adding some jalapeños to the cheese mix!
Perfect for Parties: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need an excuse to snack, these are perfect for sharing. They’ll be the first thing to disappear off the table.
Dip-Worthy: These pickles are made for dipping—serve with ranch, spicy mayo, or even some hot sauce for a little extra flavor.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
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Ingredients in Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles
Here’s what you need to make these crispy, cheesy wonders:
Pickles (Large Dill)
The star of the show. Choose big, firm pickles for stuffing—dill pickles work best for that perfect tangy flavor.
Cream Cheese
For a creamy, rich filling that holds everything together.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
A sharp, melty cheese that pairs perfectly with the tang of the pickles.
Parmesan Cheese
For an added depth of flavor and a bit of a crispy edge when fried.
Garlic Powder
Because everything’s better with a little garlic.
Onion Powder
To give the filling that savory umami punch.
Flour
For the dredge—it helps the coating stick to the pickles when you fry them.
Egg
To help the flour coating adhere and get that beautiful golden brown color.
Panko Breadcrumbs
For that extra crispy texture on the outside. Trust me, you want these!
Salt and Pepper
To season everything to perfection.
Vegetable Oil
For frying. You want enough oil to cover the pickles as they fry, giving them that perfect crispiness.
Instructions
Ready to dive into this snack sensation? Let’s get frying!
Prep the Pickles
Start by draining the pickles and patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This is key—dry pickles will help the cheese filling stay inside and not leak out during frying.
Stuff the Pickles
Carefully cut a slit lengthwise into each pickle, being sure not to cut all the way through. Scoop out a little bit of the pickle’s center to create space for the cheese filling.
In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a spoon to stuff each pickle with the cheesy mixture, packing it in as much as you can.
Prepare the Coating
Set up a dredging station:
- In one bowl, add some flour and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the egg.
- In a third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
Coat the Pickles
Carefully dip each stuffed pickle into the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Then dip it into the egg, and finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.
Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You can test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small piece of bread in—it should sizzle immediately.
Fry the Pickles
Carefully add the breaded pickles into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry for 2–3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy all over. Be sure to turn them so they fry evenly on all sides.
Once golden and crispy, remove the pickles from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve your cheesy stuffed fried pickles with your favorite dipping sauces—ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, or sriracha mayo are all great choices. You can even sprinkle them with a little extra parmesan cheese for that final touch of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4–6
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (frying)
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles
These bad boys are perfect for any occasion, but here are a few ways to serve them for maximum enjoyment:
As an Appetizer: Serve these cheesy stuffed fried pickles at the start of a meal to whet your appetite. They’re sure to get the party started!
Game Day Snack: These are perfect for a game day spread. Pair them with some wings, nachos, or sliders for the ultimate snack table.
With Dips: A variety of dipping sauces—ranch, spicy aioli, or even a tangy buffalo dip—will take these pickles to the next level.
As a Side: Serve them alongside a juicy burger or a fresh salad for an extra-crispy side that’ll steal the show.
Additional Tips
Pickle Prep: The drier the pickles, the better! Be sure to blot them well before stuffing to prevent sogginess.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to swap out the cheddar for another melty cheese like mozzarella, or even throw in a little pepper jack for some extra heat.
Make It Spicy: Add a few slices of jalapeños to the cheese filling for a spicy kick, or dip them in a spicy sauce.
Frying Tips: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy pickles. Use a thermometer if you have one, aiming for around 350°F (175°C).
Freezing Tips: If you want to make these ahead of time, freeze the breaded pickles on a baking sheet for about an hour. Once frozen, store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Fry them directly from the freezer when you’re ready—just add an extra minute or two to the frying time.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make these in the oven?
A1: Yes! If you prefer baking over frying, place the breaded pickles on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden.
Q2: Can I use a different type of pickle?
A2: Absolutely! You can use bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter version or even pickle chips if you want smaller, bite-sized snacks.
Q3: Can I make these ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can prep the stuffed and breaded pickles in advance, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before frying.
Q4: Can I make these without the cheese?
A4: If you want a lighter version, you can skip the cheese filling and stuff the pickles with seasoned breadcrumbs instead. You’ll still get that crispy crunch!
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Leftover pickles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp them back up.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Just be sure to fry the pickles in batches so they cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
Q7: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
A7: Be sure to drain and pat the pickles dry before stuffing. Also, don’t overstuff the pickles—just a spoonful of cheese per pickle is plenty. And make sure the breading is secure to keep the cheese inside.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles are the perfect combo of tangy, cheesy, and crispy. Whether you’re looking for a snack, appetizer, or just something fun to eat, they’re sure to be a hit. With that irresistible crunch and creamy cheese center, these pickles are an experience in every bite. So grab your pickles, get frying, and get ready to enjoy one of the most addictive snacks around!
Print
Cheesy Stuffed Fried Pickles
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed pickles
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy fried pickles stuffed with a gooey cheese filling, seasoned to perfection and golden brown for a delicious, tangy, and cheesy bite-sized snack.
Ingredients
- 12 large dill pickles, whole or sliced lengthwise
- 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
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional: ranch dressing or dipping sauce
Instructions
- If using whole pickles, slice them lengthwise into halves or quarters, depending on your preference for stuffing.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Using a spoon, carefully stuff each pickle with the cheese mixture. If needed, use your fingers to press the filling inside the pickle halves or quarters, ensuring they are well-packed.
- Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
- Coat each stuffed pickle first in flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Press down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking (around 350°F/175°C).
- Carefully place the breaded pickles into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for a little heat.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough for frying to get crispy pickles and avoid sogginess.
- These are best served fresh, but you can reheat them in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed pickles
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg