Crispy Pickle Cheese Bites (Print)

Tangy pickles and gooey cheese coated in seasoned breadcrumbs for a crispy indulgence.

# Ingredients:

→ For the Bites

01 - ½ cup all-purpose flour
02 - 2 large eggs
03 - 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - ½ teaspoon paprika
06 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
07 - Salt to taste
08 - Thick-cut pickle slices, well-drained
09 - Cheese cubes or slices (mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack)

→ For Frying or Baking

10 - Vegetable oil for frying
11 - Cooking spray or olive oil spray for baking or air frying

# Directions:

01 - Drain the pickle slices thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures the coating adheres well and minimizes splattering while frying.
02 - Cut the cheese into small cubes or strips matching the size of the pickle slices. Mozzarella melts into a stretchy texture, cheddar adds sharpness, and pepper jack provides a spicy flavor.
03 - Create three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, combine flour with salt and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
04 - Place a piece of cheese on top of each pickle slice and press gently to adhere. Optionally, sandwich the cheese between two pickle slices for more flavor and structure.
05 - Coat each prepared pickle-cheese bite by dipping it into the flour, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
06 - Cook the bites using one of the following methods: Frying – Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Baking – Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway. Air Frying – Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until crispy.
07 - Place cooked bites on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure the pickle slices are thoroughly dried to achieve proper adhesion of the breading and avoid excess splattering during frying.