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Instructions
1. Prepare the Pickles
- Drain Pickles: Start by draining the pickle slices from the jar. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps them get crispy when fried.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
- Prepare Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.
3. Bread the Pickles
- Coat the Pickles: Dip each pickle slice first into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the pickle in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the crumbs.
4. Fry the Pickles
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat until hot (around 350°F or 175°C).
- Fry the Pickles: Carefully add the breaded pickles in batches, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Dipping Sauce: If desired, mix the ranch dressing with hot sauce for a spicy twist. Serve the fried pickles hot, with the dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Bacon Fried Pickles
- Pickle Choice: Use dill pickles for a classic flavor, or try spicy pickles for an extra kick. You can also use pickle spears for a different presentation.
- Crispy Coating: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. You can also season the breadcrumb mixture with additional herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
- Air Fryer Option: For a healthier version, consider using an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the breaded pickles for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the breaded pickles in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. This helps the coating stick better.
Health Considerations
- Moderation: While these cheesy bacon fried pickles are delicious, they are best enjoyed in moderation as a treat.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a lighter version, consider baking instead of frying, and use low-fat cheese and turkey bacon to reduce calories.
Conclusion
Cheesy Bacon Fried Pickles are a fun and flavorful appetizer that brings together the tangy taste of pickles, the creaminess of cheese, and the savory crunch of bacon. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing, making them a hit at any gathering. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oil, and enjoy this delectable snack that’s sure to please any crowd!