These cheese-wrapped pickles are a fun and tasty snack! The crunchy pickles are completely covered in creamy cheese, making each bite a delightful surprise!
It’s hard to resist these little bites of joy. They are great for parties, game days, or just a solo treat. I like to dip them in ranch dressing for an extra zing—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dill Pickles: Kirby pickles are great for this recipe; their crunchiness plays well with the cheese. If you can’t find them, try using any large dill pickle or even bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter twist!
Mozzarella Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its melting quality. You can substitute with provolone or pepper jack cheese for a kick! If you’re dairy-free, a vegan cheese that melts well can work too.
Seasoning: Smoked paprika adds a lovely smokiness. You can play around with other spices like Italian seasoning or even Cajun for an extra flavor profile. If you’re not a fan of heat, leave out the chili powder.
Olive Oil or Butter: Either works fine! I typically use olive oil for a bit of healthiness, but butter gives a richer flavor. Try what you like!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Cheese Wrapped Pickles?
The key to crispy cheese-wrapped pickles lies in how you cook them. The right heat and timing are crucial to get that beautiful golden finish! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a medium heat. Too high and the outside will burn before the cheese melts.
- Sear them seam side down first. This helps keep the cheese in as it melts.
- Cook for only 2-3 minutes per side. Watch closely! You’re looking for a nice golden-brown color.
- Let them rest for a minute after cooking to avoid a hot cheese explosion when biting in!
By following these steps, you’ll get a crisp, crunchy shell surrounding gooey melted cheese. Enjoy your snack!
Cheese Wrapped Pickles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pickles:
- 4 large dill pickles (Kirby pickles work well)
For the Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into strips
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a little spice)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Total Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a few minutes for cooking. The result is crispy, cheesy pickles that are sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pickles:
Start by slicing the large dill pickles into halves or thirds lengthwise. This will create manageable pieces for wrapping. Adjust the size based on your preference but make sure they are thick enough to hold the cheese well.
2. Add the Cheese:
Take the strips of mozzarella cheese and fit one strip snugly inside each pickle piece. You want the cheese to be well-contained for the best melting results!
3. Create the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder (if you want a spicy kick), and black pepper. This will add a flavorful coating to the outside of your pickles.
4. Coat the Pickles:
Brush the outside of each cheese-filled pickle with olive oil or melted butter. This helps the seasoning stick better. Next, roll each pickle in the seasoning mixture until it is fully coated. Don’t skip this step for maximum flavor!
5. Cook the Pickles:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, place the seasoned cheese-wrapped pickles seam side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese begins to melt and the coating turns golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove from the heat and let them cool slightly before serving—be cautious, as the melted cheese inside will be very hot! Serve warm as a scrumptious snack or appetizer. Pair with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat!
These cheese-wrapped pickles pack a flavorful punch with their crispy exterior and gooey cheese inside, making them the perfect snack for any occasion!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is great for melting, you can use provolone, pepper jack for heat, or even cheddar if you prefer. Just ensure it melts well for that gooey texture.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the cheese-wrapped pickles ahead of time and store them in the fridge, covered, for up to a day. Just cook them right before serving to enjoy that fresh crunch!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best eaten within 2-3 days for optimal taste and texture. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to crisp them back up!
Can I Substitute the Pickles?
Definitely! You can experiment with different pickles like bread and butter pickles for a sweet twist or even spicy pickles if you enjoy some heat. Just ensure they’re large enough to stuff with cheese!
