Get ready for a crunchy twist on your favorite snack with pickle fries! These deliciously tangy and crispy bites are coated in a flavorful batter and baked (or fried) to perfection.
Honestly, who doesn’t love pickles? Pair them with a tasty dip, and you’ve got a fun appetizer that will wow your friends. I can’t resist munching on these during movie night! 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dill Pickles: Dill pickle spears are the star of this recipe. They provide the tangy flavor. If you prefer something milder, you can use bread and butter pickles instead, but they will add sweetness to the dish.
All-Purpose Flour: Flour helps the coating stick to the pickles. For a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend works great!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light and crunchy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but they won’t be as crispy. I also love adding crushed cornflakes for a fun crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but adds a rich flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Get Crispy Pickle Fries?
Getting that perfect crisp for your pickle fries involves a few simple techniques. Follow these tips for the best results!
- Start by patting the pickle spears dry. Less moisture means a better coating.
- Use three bowls for breading: one for the flour mix, one for eggs, and one for breadcrumbs. This keeps everything organized!
- Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which keeps the oil hot and helps achieve a crispy texture.
- If baking, don’t forget to flip the fries halfway through cooking! This ensures even crispiness on both sides.
How to Make Delicious Pickle Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pickle Fries:
- 1 cup dill pickle spears (about 6-8 spears), drained and patted dry
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- Cooking oil (vegetable or canola) for frying or spray oil if baking
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. If you’re frying the pickle fries, it may take a little less time, while baking may take about 15-20 minutes total. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pickles:
Start by patting the pickle spears dry with paper towels. This step is essential because removing excess moisture helps the coating stick better when frying or baking.
2. Set Up the Breading Stations:
Organize your workspace by setting up three bowls. In the first bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs with the milk until well combined. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it).
3. Coat the Pickles:
Dredge each pickle spear in the flour mixture, making sure to shake off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and finally, coat it thoroughly with the panko breadcrumb mixture. This three-step coating will give your pickle fries an amazing crunch!
4. Cook the Pickle Fries:
Now it’s time to cook your pickle fries!
- To Fry: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated pickle spears in batches, frying them until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- To Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lay the coated pickle fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then spray lightly with oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure an even crispiness.
5. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the fries are cooking, whip up the dipping sauce! In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, and garlic powder until everything is well mixed. Adjust the heat to your liking by adding more hot sauce if desired.
6. Serve:
Plate those crispy pickle fries and serve them hot with your spicy dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy the tangy crunch and the deliciously crispy coating!
These pickle fries are sure to be a hit at parties or just as a tasty snack to enjoy while binge-watching your favorite shows. Have fun and dig in!
Can I Use Whole Pickles Instead of Spears?
Yes, you can! If you prefer, slice whole pickles into spears or thicker rounds. Just ensure they’re well-drained and patted dry for optimal coating adherence.
How Do I Store Leftover Pickle Fries?
Store any leftover pickle fries 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 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the coated pickle fries in a single layer, cooking for about 8-10 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Pickle Fries?
While the spicy mayo is a great choice, other delicious options include ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a sweet chili sauce for a nice balance of flavors!
