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Crispy fried pickles are the ultimate snack to share at any get-together. The crave-worthy crunch paired with a tangy bite makes them impossible to resist. Whip up a batch in less than thirty minutes and see them disappear before your eyes.
Fried pickles became a weekend favorite after our first backyard movie night. Now they are an expected treat every time friends come over.
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil for frying: Makes the pickles extra crispy and cooks evenly Choose a neutral high smoke point oil
- Dill pickle slices: Bring tangy flavor and satisfying texture Use thicker cut pickles for best crunch
- All purpose flour: Helps batter stick well to the pickles Choose unbleached for light flavor
- Garlic salt: Punches up the savory taste Check label for pure garlic salt without anti-caking agents
- Italian seasoning: Adds herby depth and balance Use a fresh blend if possible
- Pepper: Sharpens the overall flavor Freshly ground brings best aroma
- Water: Thins out the batter for even coverage Use cold water for crispier coating
- Panko breadcrumbs: Deliver an extra crisp shell compared to regular breadcrumbs Always choose unseasoned for flexibility
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oil:
- Pour enough oil into a heavy skillet to reach about half an inch deep Heat over medium high until the temperature holds steady at three hundred fifty to three hundred seventy five degrees Use a frying thermometer for accuracy
- Dry the Pickles:
- Drain the pickles and lay them out on paper towels Gently pat to remove every bit of juice so the coating will cling
- Mix the Batter:
- In a shallow bowl whisk together the flour garlic salt Italian seasoning and pepper Mix well then add the cold water whisking until completely smooth without lumps
- Prep Breadcrumbs:
- Put the panko in its own shallow bowl so you are ready to coat each pickle
- Coat the Pickles:
- Work in batches Toss pickles into the batter letting any excess drip off Press each coated pickle into panko breadcrumbs until fully covered
- Fry to Perfection:
- Carefully lower the pickles into hot oil Fry one to two minutes per side flipping as needed until they are golden brown and super crisp
- Drain and Serve:
- Use a slotted spoon to lift out pickles and place on a plate lined with fresh paper towels Serve straight away with your favorite dipping sauce
Pin
Every time I add a little extra garlic salt the batch disappears even faster My kids love dunking these straight into ranch and competing for the crispiest bite
Storage Tips
Store leftover fried pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days They are best eaten soon after frying since the coating softens over time To reheat set them in a three hundred fifty degree air fryer for just a few minutes or crisp up in a hot oven
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use bread and butter pickles for a sweeter twist Instead of panko try crushed cornflakes for even more crunch Any seasoned salt can replace garlic salt for a new flavor profile
Serving Suggestions
Pile your fried pickles in a basket alongside ranch or creamy chipotle sauce for dipping They shine on game day tables or picnics with BBQ favorites Sometimes we serve them with marinara and a sprinkle of grated parmesan for an Italian flair
Cultural and Historical Context
Fried pickles are a Southern classic that first took off in the United States during the mid twentieth century They started as a creative way for diners and bars to jazz up a simple jar of pickles and now have a cult following nationwide
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do you keep the pickle coating crispy?
Pat the pickle slices completely dry before dredging them in flour and batter. Use hot oil (350–375°F) to ensure a golden, crunchy crust.
- → Can you use sweet pickles instead of dill?
Yes, sweet pickles can be used for a different flavor profile, though many prefer the classic tang of dill pickles for contrast.
- → What dipping sauces work best?
Ranch dressing and Marinara sauce pair well with fried pickles, but feel free to try spicy aioli, honey mustard, or creamy garlic dip.
- → How can you reheat leftovers to stay crisp?
Reheat in a 350°F air fryer for 3–5 minutes or in a 400°F oven for 5–10 minutes until the coating is hot and crispy again.
- → Are air fryer instructions available?
Yes, preheat your air fryer to 425°F. Bread the pickles as usual, cook in a single layer for 7–9 minutes, flip, then cook another 7 minutes until golden.
- → Can you customize the seasoning?
Absolutely. Try adding paprika, chili powder, or other favorite spices to the batter for extra depth and flavor.