Cheddar pickle fries are the funnest twist on a snack! Crispy fries are topped with melty cheddar cheese and zesty pickles, making every bite a little party for your taste buds!
These fries are perfect for sharing, or you know, keeping all to yourself. I like to dip them in ranch for an extra zing—because why not? Who can resist cheesy pickles on fries? 🍟🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dill Pickles: Large dill pickles are perfect for this recipe. They have the right crunch and flavor. If you want a milder taste, you can use bread and butter pickles instead.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These give a great crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture will be a bit softer. You might also use crushed cornflakes for an even crunchier result.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite. If you prefer a milder flavor, go for mild cheddar or even a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick.
Vegetable Oil: This is for frying. Canola or peanut oil is also good. Just make sure it can handle high heat for frying.
How Do I Get My Pickle Fries Extra Crispy?
The secret to crispy pickle fries lies in the coating and the frying technique. Start by ensuring the pickles are well-drained; excess moisture can make them soggy. For a crispy outside, here’s a solid method:
- Make sure to dust the spears in flour first, shaking off the excess—it helps the egg stick.
- Double-coat them by dipping back into the egg wash and panko if you want an extra crunch.
- Fry in batches at the right oil temperature (350°F) to minimize steaming. Overcrowding cools the oil, making them less crispy.
- After frying, let them drain on paper towels so they stay crisp. Broiling with cheese at 1-2 minutes will keep that crunch.
Cheddar Pickle Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 12 large dill pickles (whole)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 Tbsp water
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Ranch dressing or dipping sauce of choice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 20 minutes for prep time and around 10-15 minutes for cooking, depending on how many batches you fry. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy treat in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pickles:
Start by draining the pickles from the jar and gently blotting them dry with a paper towel. Slice each pickle into thick fries or spears, about 3-4 inches long. This will give you nice, sturdy pieces to fry.
2. Set Up Your Dipping Stations:
In a shallow bowl, add the flour for the first step of the coating. In another bowl, whisk the eggs together with the tablespoon of water until well mixed. Then, in a third bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper—this will be your flavorful coating.
3. Coat the Pickles:
Take a pickle spear and dip it first into the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat it thoroughly with the seasoned panko mixture. For those extra crispy fries, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb step to double-coat them!
4. Fry the Pickle Fries:
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated pickle fries in batches. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Remember not to overcrowd the pan.
5. Drain and Broil:
Once fried, remove the pickle fries and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Preheat your oven broiler while you arrange the fried pickle fries on an oven-safe dish or baking tray. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the fries.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from the oven and, if desired, garnish with freshly chopped dill for an extra pop of flavor. Serve your delicious cheddar pickle fries immediately with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, tangy cheddar pickle fries!
Can I Use Different Types of Pickles?
Absolutely! While dill pickles work best for that tangy flavor, you can also use bread and butter pickles for a sweeter option or even spicy pickles for a kick. Just keep in mind that the moisture content may vary.
Can I Make These in the Oven Instead of Frying?
Yes! For a healthier version, after coating the pickle fries, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them with cooking spray and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy.
How to Store Leftover Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Microwaving can make them soggy, so oven reheating is best!
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, though the texture will be softer. For added crunch, consider using crushed cornflakes, crushed Ritz crackers, or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option!