Cheddar Pickle Fries are a fun twist on classic fries! These crispy, golden delights are coated in a cheesy cheddar blend and have a tangy pickle kick that makes your taste buds dance!
Honestly, who knew pickles could get any better? They’re like the cool kids of the fry world! I love serving them with a side of ranch for dipping—perfect for snack time or game day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dill Pickles: Choose large dill pickles for a more satisfying crunch. If you can’t find dill, bread-and-butter pickles are a sweeter alternative, though they’ll change the flavor a bit.
All-purpose Flour: This helps the breading stick. If you need a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve tried both, and the result is tasty!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs provide great crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work, but the texture might be less crispy.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang. When I’m feeling adventurous, I mix it with pepper jack for a spicier kick!
How Do I Ensure the Pickle Fries Stay Crispy?
Keeping those pickle fries crispy is all about preparation and frying technique! Start by draining and patting dry the pickles. This helps reduce moisture, preventing sogginess.
- Set up your breading station properly: flour, eggs, and panko mixtures. Take your time coating each fry well.
- Chill the coated fries! This step helps the batter stick better during frying.
- Fry in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, leading to less crispy fries. Aim for 2-3 minutes of frying until golden brown.
Trust me, crispiness is key to making these fries extra delicious!
Cheddar Pickle Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pickles:
- 20-25 dill pickles (large size, sliced into thick fries)
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: ranch dressing or spicy mayo for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prep and an additional 10-15 minutes for frying. It’s a quick and fun snack that’s ready in about 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pickles:
Begin by draining the pickles and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is super important—it helps remove excess moisture so the breading sticks better! Slice each pickle into thick fries, around 3 inches long.
2. Set Up the Breading Stations:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you’re using it), and some salt and black pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. You’re setting yourself up for a crispy, crunchy treat!
3. Coat the Pickle Fries:
Now it’s time to coat those pickles! First, take a pickle fry and dip it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs until it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the panko-cheddar mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks well. Repeat for all pickle fries until they’re all nicely coated!
4. Chill the Coated Pickles:
Place the coated pickle fries on a baking sheet and pop them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. Chilling helps the breading set, which means crispier fries once they’re fried!
5. Heat the Oil:
While the pickles are chilling, heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C). Make sure you have enough oil to allow the fries to float—they’ll fry better that way!
6. Fry the Pickle Fries:
Carefully add the coated pickle fries in batches into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, 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. Repeat until all the fries are cooked!
7. Add Extra Cheddar Cheese:
While the fries are still hot, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the fries. The heat will melt the cheese oh-so-nicely!
8. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the fries for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these delicious Cheddar Pickle Fries hot with your choice of dipping sauce, like ranch or spicy mayo. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Pickles?
Absolutely! While dill pickles give a classic flavor, you can experiment with bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change a bit!
Can I Bake the Pickle Fries Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the coated pickle fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or air fryer to restore some crispiness, as microwaving may make them soggy.
What Can I Serve with Cheddar Pickle Fries?
These tasty bites pair well with a variety of dips like ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or even a chipotle sauce. They make a fantastic snack or appetizer, especially at parties or game days!