Name: Crispy Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup sliced pickles; 2 large eggs; 3 tablespoons flour; 1 tablespoon hot sauce; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; ¼ cup sour cream; ¼ cup mayonnaise; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup minced onions; 1 clove garlic; 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)

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If there’s a snack that turns heads and delights crowds every single time, it’s Crispy Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce. Think tangy, crunchy, and utterly irresistible — golden-fried pickle slices encased in a savory panko crust, paired with a creamy, herby dip that keeps hands reaching for more. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd, treating your family, or just craving a salty treat, this recipe brings joy to every table. If you’re a lover of bold flavor and satisfying crunch, this dish will become your go-to snack sensation!

Crispy Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great bite of Crispy Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce starts with a handful of ingredients you probably already have on hand. Each one plays a starring role — from the zesty pickles to the ultra-crunchy coating and the luscious dip, they’re all crucial for maximum flavor and perfect texture.

Pickles (1 cup sliced): Use your favorite variety; the brinier, the better for that punch of flavor.
Eggs (2 large): Eggs help the breading stick and add richness to the crust.
Flour (3 tablespoons): The base layer for that coveted, even crunch.
Hot Sauce (1 tablespoon): Choose your favorite brand; it brings a gentle heat and extra dimension.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances every flavor throughout the pickle and coating.
Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle bite to every crunchy mouthful.
Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup): The secret to a shatteringly crisp, golden crust.
Sour Cream (¼ cup, for the dip): Creamy and tangy, this is the base of your dipping sauce.
Mayonnaise (¼ cup, for the dip): Adds body and a rich silkiness to the dip.
Salt (½ teaspoon, for the dip): Brightens up all the ingredients in the sauce.
Black Pepper (½ teaspoon, for the dip): Balances and intensifies the flavor profile of the dip.
Minced Onions (¼ cup, for the dip): The finer you mince, the better for a punchy background note.
Garlic (1 clove, minced, for the dip): Brings a sharp, aromatic heat to the dip.
Dried Dill (1 teaspoon, optional, for the dip): Adds freshness and a hint of classic dill pickle flavor to the dipping sauce.

How to Make

Step 1: Prepare the Pickles

Begin by thoroughly draining your sliced pickles and patting them dry with plenty of paper towels. Taking the time to remove excess moisture is critical: it not only helps the coating stick but also keeps your oil from splattering and ensures that signature crunch. The drier your pickles, the crispier your results!

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Organize three shallow bowls for easy assembly. Whisk your eggs in the first bowl until frothy. In the second bowl, combine the flour, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper, mixing well so the seasoning is even. Place your panko breadcrumbs in the third bowl. This setup keeps things tidy and efficient as you move through the breading process.

Step 3: Coat the Pickles

Work in batches, dipping each pickle slice first into the beaten eggs, ensuring a full coating. Next, dredge the pickle in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Finally, toss each slice in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing again to help the crumbs cling well — this double-coating system gives you that unforgettable, addictive crunch you expect from delicious Crispy Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce!

Step 4: Fry the Pickles

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated pickles, working in batches to avoid crowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, turning once, until gloriously golden and crispy. Remove the fried pickles with a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. That sizzle and aroma will tempt everyone in the house!

Step 5: Prepare the Dip

In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, minced onions, minced garlic, and optional dried dill. Mix until thoroughly combined and smooth. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if you wish — the result should be creamy, zesty, and the perfect partner for your pickles.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the piping-hot Crispy Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce on a platter and serve immediately, with the creamy sauce alongside for generous dunking. The combination of crunch, tang, heat, and creamy coolness is truly irresistible.

How to Serve

Garnishes

Dress up your platter with sprinkles of fresh dill, parsley, or chives for a pop of color and herbaceous brightness. If you want even more zing, a dusting of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lemon over the pickles can make the flavors sing even louder.

Side Dishes

These crispy bites are perfect on their own, but they shine even brighter on a snack tray with other finger foods like loaded potato skins, onion rings, or spicy jalapeño poppers. For something refreshing, serve with a crisp garden salad or crudité to balance out the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Take Crispy Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce to the next level by stacking them onto mini skewers for party snacks, tucking them into sliders for a tangy surprise, or serving them as a playful topping on your favorite grilled burgers. For casual gatherings, pile them high in a basket lined with parchment for that irresistible pub-style feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover Crispy Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce (a rare event!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the dipping sauce separate in a small jar or bowl, also refrigerated, to maintain peak freshness.

Freezing

Crispy Fried Pickles can actually be frozen! Lay the cooked, cooled pickles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to a month. The dipping sauce, however, is best enjoyed fresh and not recommended for freezing.

Reheating

To restore their crunch, reheat the pickles in a hot oven (425°F/220°C) on a wire rack for 8-10 minutes, turning once halfway through. Skip the microwave, as it softens the coating. Let them cool just enough to handle, then serve immediately with your chilled dipping sauce.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pickles for this recipe?

Absolutely! While classic dill pickle slices are the go-to, feel free to experiment with bread-and-butter pickles, spicy pickles, or even sweet gherkins for a unique twist. Each variety brings its own character and flavor to your Crispy Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, and use gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers for the coating. The result is still deliciously crispy and crowd-pleasing.

What oil is best for frying?

Pick a high-smoke-point oil like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil for safe, even frying. These oils give your Crispy Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce a perfectly crisp exterior without imparting unwanted flavors.

Is there a way to bake instead of fry?

For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded pickles on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping once. They won’t be quite as crispy as the fried version, but they’re still totally addictive!

Can I prepare the breaded pickles in advance?

Definitely. Bread the pickle slices and lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before frying. This actually helps the coating set, resulting in even crispier fried pickles when it’s time to cook.

Final Thoughts

Few things bring people together like a plate of Crispy Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce. They’re full of bold flavor, playful crunch, and serious snack appeal — the perfect treat for any gathering or quick craving. Don’t be surprised if these become your most-requested party dish. Next time you need a surefire hit, give this recipe a whirl, and watch them disappear!