Crunchy Fried Pickles Recipe! Try Now
If you’re craving a snack that hits every note from crispy to tangy, then you have to try this Fried Pickles Recipe! These golden, crunchy bites make the perfect appetizer or a quick treat that bursts with flavor every single time. Imagine the crunch of the coating followed by the zesty punch of pickles—this dish is comfort food elevated and incredibly simple to whip up at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Crispy Coating: The secret batter mix creates an extra crunchy exterior that holds up perfectly to frying.
- Tangy and Savory Flavor: Each pickle slice offers a burst of briny goodness balanced with seasoned breading.
- Quick and Easy to Make: From pantry ingredients to plate in under 30 minutes, it’s a snack made for busy days.
- Perfect for Sharing: These golden pickles are as fun to eat as they are to share with friends and family.
- Versatile Dipping Options: Pair with ranch, spicy aioli, or your favorite sauce to customize your flavor experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Fried Pickles Recipe! is all about simple, accessible ingredients that come together to deliver irresistible taste and texture. Each item plays a vital role in balancing the tanginess of the pickles with a crisp, golden crust that’s full of flavor.
- Dill Pickle Slices: Choose crunchy dill pickles for that classic tang and texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base for the light and crispy batter coating.
- Cornmeal: Adds extra crunch and a slightly nutty flavor to the crust.
- Seasoned Salt: Enhances the overall seasoning with just a touch of savory flair.
- Garlic Powder: Brings a subtle depth to the batter’s flavor profile.
- Black Pepper: Offers a mild heat that complements the pickle’s tang.
- Eggs: Used to bind the ingredients and ensure the coating sticks perfectly.
- Buttermilk or Milk: Adds moisture and keeps the batter tender.
- Vegetable Oil: For frying to achieve that irresistible golden color and crunch.
Variations for Fried Pickles Recipe!
One of the best things about this Fried Pickles Recipe! is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to play with different spices, switch up the coating, or adapt it for your diet, these variations offer tasty alternatives to the classic.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for an exciting heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal blend to suit dietary needs.
- Cheesy Crust: Mix in grated Parmesan to the breading for an extra savory crunch.
- Buttermilk Substitute: Use plain yogurt or a milk-lemon juice mixture if buttermilk isn’t available.
- Baked Version: For a lighter approach, bake the pickles with a drizzle of oil instead of frying.
How to Make Fried Pickles Recipe!
Step 1: Prepare the Pickles
Drain the dill pickles well and pat each slice dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures the batter sticks better and helps the pickles stay crispy after frying.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. This blend will form the flavorful crust that makes each bite so delightful.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Mixture
Whisk the eggs and buttermilk together in a separate bowl. This wet mix locks the dry coating in place and keeps the texture light and crispy after frying.
Step 4: Coat the Pickles
Dip each pickle slice first into the wet mixture, letting any excess drip off, then dredge it thoroughly in the dry ingredients. For an extra crunchy finish, double-dip by repeating this process.
Step 5: Fry to Perfection
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated pickles in small batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Enjoy your fried pickles hot while the crust is still crisp and the pickles are cool and tangy inside.
Pro Tips for Making Fried Pickles Recipe!
- Pickle Selection: Use firm, crunchy dill pickles to prevent sogginess after frying.
- Oil Temperature: Keep the oil hot enough to avoid greasy pickles but not so hot it burns the coating.
- Pat Dry: Make sure your pickles are well-dried before dipping to help the batter stick.
- Double Coating: For extra crunch, coat the pickles twice in wet and dry mixtures before frying.
- Drain Properly: Place fried pickles on a wire rack or paper towels to keep them crisp.
How to Serve Fried Pickles Recipe!
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the fried pickles to add a splash of color and a hint of fresh flavor that lightens the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside creamy ranch dressing, tangy aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for dipping. These condiments perfectly complement the salty crunch and bring different flavor layers to the snack.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange fried pickles on a vibrant platter with assorted dipping sauces in little bowls for sharing at parties or game days. Add some sliced jalapeños or pickled onions for a colorful, festive display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the pickles separate from sauces to avoid sogginess until ready to enjoy.
Freezing
While fried pickles taste best fresh, you can freeze unbattered pickle slices on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed bag. When ready to eat, coat and fry directly from frozen for a crunchy snack.
Reheating
To reheat and preserve crispiness, place fried pickles in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or use an air fryer for 3-4 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain crunch.
FAQs
Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill?
Yes, you can swap dill pickles for sweet pickles, but expect a milder, sweeter flavor that contrasts with the savory coating.
What oil is best for frying these pickles?
Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are great choices because of their neutral flavor and high smoke points, resulting in a perfectly fried crust.
Is there a gluten-free version of this Fried Pickles Recipe!?
Absolutely, just substitute regular flour and cornmeal with gluten-free alternatives to keep the recipe safe and delicious.
Can I bake fried pickles instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier option. Coat the pickles as usual and bake at 425°F (220°C) on a greased baking sheet until crispy and golden, about 15-20 minutes.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dry mix, or serve with a spicy dipping sauce like chipotle mayo to turn up the heat.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Pickles Recipe! is a must-try snack that’s not only incredibly tasty but also fun to prepare and serve. Whether it’s for game day, a casual get-together, or just a craving to satisfy, these crispy, golden bites will instantly become a favorite. So grab your pickles, fire up the fryer, and enjoy every crunchy, tangy bite!
PrintFried Pickles Recipe!
Fried pickles are crispy, golden-brown bites bursting with tangy, savory flavor. This quick and easy snack features crunchy dill pickle slices coated in a seasoned batter and fried to perfection, making a perfect appetizer or treat to share. Customize with various spices, dipping sauces, or baking methods for a versatile and delicious snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (when using gluten-free flour and cornmeal)
Ingredients
Pickles
- Dill Pickle Slices – about 1 cup, well drained and patted dry
Dry Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour – 1/2 cup (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- Cornmeal – 1/2 cup (or gluten-free cornmeal blend)
- Seasoned Salt – 1 tsp
- Garlic Powder – 1/2 tsp
- Black Pepper – 1/4 tsp
- Optional: Cayenne Pepper or Chili Powder – 1/4 tsp (for spicy variation)
- Optional: Grated Parmesan – 2 tbsp (for cheesy crust)
Wet Ingredients
- Eggs – 2 large
- Buttermilk or Milk – 1/2 cup (or plain yogurt / milk-lemon juice mixture as buttermilk substitute)
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil – enough for deep frying (about 2 cups)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pickles: Drain the dill pickles thoroughly and pat each slice dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This prevents sogginess and helps the batter adhere better.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, seasoned salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and any optional spices or Parmesan. This mixture forms the crispy and flavorful coating.
- Prepare the Wet Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until smooth. This liquid mixture helps the dry coating stick and keeps the texture light.
- Coat the Pickles: Dip each pickle slice first into the wet mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then dredge thoroughly in the dry ingredients. For extra crunch, double-dip by repeating the wet and dry coating process.
- Fry to Perfection: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated pickles in small batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels or a wire rack to keep crisp.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your fried pickles while hot and crispy, paired with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- Use firm, crunchy dill pickles to keep pickles from becoming soggy during frying.
- Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) to ensure a crisp, non-greasy crust.
- Pat pickles dry before coating for better batter adhesion.
- Double coating the pickles offers an extra crunchy crust.
- Drain fried pickles on a wire rack or paper towels to preserve crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: fried pickles, appetizer, snack, crispy pickles, tangy snack, southern fried pickles
