Crispy Stuffed Fried Pickles

Step-by-step instructions

Pat the pickle slices dry. Use paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Mix the cheese filling. In a bowl, blend cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped jalapeños, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble the pickles. Spread a small amount of the cheese mixture on one pickle slice, then sandwich it with another slice. Gently press to seal.
Prepare the breading station. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bread the pickles. Dip each stuffed pickle sandwich first in flour, then egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
Heat the oil. Use a deep skillet or fryer and heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the pickles. Cook the stuffed pickles in batches for 2–3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
Drain excess oil. Remove the fried pickles with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels.
Serve and enjoy! Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Best ways to enjoy it

These Crispy Stuffed Fried Pickles can be served as a standalone appetizer or alongside a variety of dishes. Try pairing them with a tangy ranch or spicy aioli for dipping. They make a delicious accompaniment to burgers, grilled meats, or simply served with a fresh salad for a lighter meal. A side of coleslaw or potato wedges would also complement their flavor perfectly.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, store the fried pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crunchiness. While it’s not recommended to freeze these stuffed pickles after frying, you can prepare and freeze them before the frying process. Just make sure to separate them to prevent sticking.

Helpful cooking tips

To elevate your stuffed pickles, consider adding additional spices to the breadcrumb mixture, like cayenne pepper for an extra kick or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. Make sure to pat the pickles dry well to enhance the crispness when frying. Lastly, don’t rush the frying process; cook in batches to maintain the oil temperature and avoid steaming.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Switch up the cheese fillings by adding cream cheese with herbs or using pepper jack for an added zing. You can also try different types of pickles like bread and butter or spicy dill for a unique taste experience. Want to make it healthier? Bake rather than fry! Just spray the breaded pickles with cooking oil and bake until golden and crispy.