Fried Pickles
you’ve never indulged in the magic of crispy fried pickles, it’s time to treat your tastebuds. One bite into a golden, crunchy slice and you’ll understand why this Southern gem deserves a permanent spot on your snack roster. I still recall the first time I tried them—at a roadside diner during a hazy summer drive through Tennessee. That tangy crunch paired with a cool, creamy dip? Pure bliss.
Since that memorable bite, these fried pickles have become my secret weapon for game nights, backyard BBQs, and movie marathons. They’re always a hit—gone faster than you can say “pass the dipping sauce.”
Whether you deep fry for that extra-crunch magic or go the air fryer route for a lighter twist, this recipe promises flavor without compromise.
Ingredients (Table Format)
| For Frying | |
|---|---|
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper (ground) | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | ¼ teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ¼ teaspoon |
| Buttermilk | ½ cup |
| Egg (large) | 1 |
| Kosher dill pickles | 3, sliced < ¼” thick, patted dry |
| Optional Dipping Sauce | (or serve with Ranch) |
|---|---|
| Ranch dressing | 2 tablespoons |
| BBQ sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Ketchup | 1 teaspoon |
| Mayonnaise | 1 teaspoon |
| Tabasco sauce | Dash |
| Ground black pepper | Dash |
Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Pour 2–3 inches of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven. Attach a frying thermometer (make sure it’s not touching the bottom) and heat to 375°F (190°C)—this takes about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In one bowl, mix the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder.
In another, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until smooth.
Step 3: Bread the Pickles
Working in batches of 3–4 slices:
-
- Coat each pickle slice in the seasoned flour.
- Dip into the egg and buttermilk mixture.
- Return to the flour coating for a second layer of crispy goodness.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
Gently lower each coated pickle into the hot oil. Fry for around 90 seconds per side until golden and crunchy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and let oil return to 375°F before frying the next batch.
Step 5: Mix the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
Stir all sauce ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth.
