Pickle poppers are a fun and zesty snack! These little bites are filled with tangy pickles and wrapped in crispy batter, making them a crunchy delight.
They’re great for parties, game days, or just a tasty treat on a lazy afternoon. I love making a big batch and sharing them with friends—who can resist that crispy goodness? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pickled Jalapeños: These are the stars of the dish, offering that perfect tangy punch. If you want less heat, you could use sweet pickles or even banana peppers. Just make sure they’re large enough for stuffing!
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or even tofu for a dairy-free version.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for extra flavor. However, feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick!
Bacon: A key component for that crispy finish! If you prefer a healthier way, turkey bacon works too, though it may not become as crispy.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Pickle Poppers?
The crunch is vital for these poppers! Here’s how to ensure you get that crispy golden coating:
- Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. This three-step process helps to create a solid outer layer.
- Be sure to coat each piece evenly in flour first, then dip in the egg, and finally roll thoroughly in cornmeal or panko. Don’t skip any step!
- Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) for the best frying results. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the poppers will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Fry in small batches. This prevents the temperature from dropping and keeps everything cooking evenly.
With these tips, your pickle poppers will have the perfect crunch every time!
Pickle Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 12 large pickled jalapeños (or large dill pickles), whole or halved lengthwise, seeds removed if desired
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Wrapping:
- 12 slices bacon
For Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup cornmeal or panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of preparation time and another 15 minutes for frying. You’ll soon have delicious, hot pickle poppers ready to enjoy in less than an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until everything is combined well. This cheesy mixture is what makes the poppers delicious!
2. Prepare the Peppers:
If you’re using jalapeños, carefully cut off the stem end and remove the seeds if you want less heat. If you’re using dill pickles, make sure they can be easily stuffed.
3. Stuff the Peppers:
Fill each jalapeño or pickle half with the cheesy mixture. Pack it in nicely, but don’t overfill or it will spill out while cooking!
4. Wrap with Bacon:
Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed pepper. If the bacon doesn’t stick well, use a toothpick to secure it. The bacon adds a crispy, savory flavor to your poppers.
5. Set Up for Breading:
Get ready to bread your poppers! Place your flour in one bowl, beat the eggs in another bowl, and pour the cornmeal or panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. Make sure you have everything ready to go!
6. Dredge the Poppers:
Roll each bacon-wrapped stuffed pepper in flour first, shaking off extra flour. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly.
7. Fry the Poppers:
In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the poppers in small batches for about 3–5 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the coating is golden brown.
8. Drain and Serve:
Using a slotted spoon, remove the poppers from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot for an incredibly tasty appetizer that’s sure to be a hit!
Enjoy these delightful pickle poppers as a delicious treat for parties or a fun snack!
Can I Use Other Types of Pickles?
Absolutely! While jalapeños add spice, you can also use large dill pickles for a milder flavor or even sweet pickles for a different twist. Just make sure they’re large enough to stuff.
How Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the poppers up to the frying step, then cover them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, simply fry them right from the fridge—just be sure to account for extra cooking time if they’re cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake the poppers! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the bacon is crispy.
