Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles – A Must-Try Snack

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Description:
These bold and crispy air-fried pickles are stuffed with seasoned cream cheese and cheddar, coated in golden breadcrumbs, and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. They’re crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with zesty pickle flavor — the ultimate easy snack or party appetizer!

Origin:
A creative twist on the Southern fried pickle, this air fryer version is lighter, quicker, and packs an extra punch with cheesy stuffing. It became a trending snack thanks to TikTok foodies and air fryer fans looking for bold, low-effort bites.

Ingredients Quantity (Makes 12–16 stuffed pickle halves)

Main Ingredients

  • 6–8 large dill pickles (whole or spears)
  • 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp onion powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Ingredients Optional

  • Chopped bacon (2 tbsp) for the filling
  • Hot sauce or jalapeños for a spicy kick
  • Ranch or chipotle mayo for dipping
  • Parmesan in the breadcrumbs for extra flavor
  • Smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning instead of regular paprika

Instructions

  1. Slice pickles in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers with a small spoon or melon baller. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add optional bacon or jalapeños if desired.
  3. Fill each pickle half with the cheese mixture, pressing it in slightly.
  4. Set up a breading station:
    • Bowl 1: flour
    • Bowl 2: beaten eggs
    • Bowl 3: panko breadcrumbs mixed with paprika
  5. Carefully dredge each stuffed pickle in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Press crumbs on gently to stick well.
  6. Spray all sides with olive oil or cooking spray.
  7. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  8. Let cool slightly and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Success
Dry the pickles well before stuffing to prevent soggy results.
Don’t overfill — a smooth, level stuffing surface helps with breading.
Preheat the air fryer for even cooking and crispier texture.
Use tongs to flip gently halfway through.

Recommendation
Serve as an appetizer, game day snack, or party platter with ranch, spicy aioli, or sriracha mayo. They also pair great with burgers or BBQ plates!

Nutrition (Per Stuffed Pickle Half – approx.)
Calories: 80 kcal
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 290mg
Sugar: 1g
Fiber: <1g

Want a keto version with crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs? Or a vegan take with dairy-free cheese? Just say the word!

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