Cheddar Pickle Fries are a fun twist on the classic snack we all love. These crispy fries are coated in tangy pickles and melted cheddar cheese, making every bite cheesy and zesty!
What’s not to love about cheesy fries? I always make a big batch to share, but let’s be real—I usually eat most of them myself! 😄 Perfect for game day or a movie night snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pickles: You can use dill pickles for a tangy treat or bread-and-butter pickles for a hint of sweetness. If you can’t find pickles, try using zucchini slices for a fresh twist!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a great crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If you want to keep it gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar really enhances the flavor, but feel free to substitute with any cheese you prefer, like mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for an extra kick!
Dipping Sauce: Mayonnaise and ketchup are classic, but you can mix things up with ranch dressing, hot sauce, or even a yogurt-based dip for a healthier option!
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch on Your Pickle Fries?
A crispy exterior can make or break your pickle fries. Here’s how to nail it:
- First, make sure to dry the pickles thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This helps the breading stick.
- Set up an efficient breading station: flour, then egg, and lastly breadcrumbs. This ensures even coating.
- For best results, give a double dip in the egg and breadcrumbs. This creates a thicker crust that will crisp up nicely in the oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pan! Frying in small batches keeps the oil temperature stable and leads to a better crunch.
Remember to keep the oil hot, around 350°F (175°C), for optimal frying. Happy cooking!
How to Make Cheddar Pickle Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 3-4 large pickles (dill or bread-and-butter, depending on preference)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup or chili sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to cook, resulting in a total time of about 25 minutes. Perfect for quickly whipping up a tasty snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pickles:
Start by draining and patting dry the pickles with paper towels. This step is important to ensure the breading sticks well. Slice the pickles lengthwise into fries about 1/2 inch thick.
2. Setting Up the Breading Station:
In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. Finally, place the breadcrumbs in the third bowl.
3. Coating the Pickles:
Now it’s time to coat each pickle fry! First, dip the fries into the seasoned flour mixture to coat. Next, dip them into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat them with breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs gently to help them stick. For extra crunch, you can double dip by going back to the egg and then the breadcrumbs again.
4. Frying the Pickle Fries:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated pickle fries in small batches until they turn golden brown and crispy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan!
5. Draining and Topping:
Once fried, drain the pickle fries on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. While they are still hot, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over them so it melts from the heat. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch!
6. Making the Dipping Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup or chili sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until smooth.
7. Serving Up:
Serve your tasty cheddar pickle fries warm with a side of the dipping sauce and extra pickle slices if desired. Enjoy this crunchy, cheesy, and tangy snack!
Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delightful Cheddar Pickle Fries!
Can I Use Other Types of Pickles?
Absolutely! While dill pickles are classic, bread-and-butter pickles will give a slightly sweeter taste. You can even try spicy pickles for an added kick!
How Can I Make These Fries Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with a mix of 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water (let it sit for a few minutes to thicken) or use unsweetened plant-based yogurt for similar binding properties. Use vegan cheese or skip the cheese for a dairy-free version!
What Oil Is Best for Frying?
Vegetable oil works well, but you can also use canola or peanut oil, both of which have high smoke points. Avoid using olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and can alter the flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Pickle Fries?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness!