Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love pickles, you’ll adore these Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles! The combination of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar cheese, and beef bits creates a rich and flavorful filling that complements the tangy pickles perfectly. The air fryer ensures the pickles are crisped to perfection, making every bite a crunchy, cheesy, and savory experience. These stuffed pickles are a quick and easy snack that’s sure to impress your friends and family, and they’re versatile enough to be adapted with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Ranch seasoning
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Beef bits
- Pickles (whole or spears, depending on preference)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Begin by slicing your pickles into spears, or if using whole pickles, cut a slit down the middle to create a pocket for the stuffing.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar cheese, and beef bits. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Stuff the pickles with the cream cheese mixture, making sure to pack the filling in tightly.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the stuffed pickles in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the outside is golden and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the stuffed pickles from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: Makes about 12 stuffed pickles (depending on pickle size)
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 8-10 minutes
- Total time: 18-20 minutes
Variations
- Different cheeses: Try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or a combination of cheeses, for added flavor.
- Add herbs and spices: For a bit more flavor, add garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling mixture.
- Vegetarian version: Omit the beef bits and substitute with additional veggies like finely chopped bell peppers or olives for a vegetarian option.
- Hot sauce: Add a splash of hot sauce or sriracha to the filling for a spicy kick.
Storage/reheating
- Storage: Store leftover stuffed pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the stuffed pickles back in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy again.
FAQs
Can I use any type of pickles for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of pickles you like, whether whole, spears, or even mini pickles. Just ensure they’re large enough to hold the stuffing.
Can I make these stuffed pickles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed pickles ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few hours before air frying them. This makes them perfect for parties or gatherings.
Can I use a different seasoning than ranch?
Yes! You can experiment with different seasonings like Italian seasoning, taco seasoning, or garlic and herb seasoning to customize the flavor to your liking.
Can I make these stuffed pickles without an air fryer?
Yes, if you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake them in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the stuffed pickles on a baking sheet for 12-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Are these stuffed pickles spicy?
They are not inherently spicy, but you can easily add a bit of spice by incorporating hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the stuffing mixture.
Can I freeze these stuffed pickles?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed pickles before air frying them. Place the stuffed pickles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Afterward, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, air fry them from frozen for an extra 2-3 minutes.
How do I make these stuffed pickles less salty?
To reduce the saltiness of the pickles, you can soak them in water for 30 minutes to an hour before stuffing them. This will help draw out some of the saltiness.
Can I use a different cheese besides cheddar?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, cream cheese, or pepper jack for a bit of heat.
How do I ensure the pickles stay crispy?
Make sure to air fry the stuffed pickles in a single layer without overcrowding the basket, and cook them until they are golden brown. This ensures a crispy texture on the outside.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles are a fantastic, quick snack or appetizer that will surely become a favorite in your household. With their crispy texture, creamy filling, and savory flavors, these pickles are a perfect balance of indulgence and freshness. Whether you're looking to impress guests or just treat yourself, this simple recipe is a must-try! Enjoy the crispy, cheesy, and flavorful goodness that these stuffed pickles deliver!
Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 Servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles are a savory, crispy, and flavorful snack that takes your pickle game to the next level! With a creamy filling made of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and beef bits , these stuffed pickles are air-fried to golden perfection, creating a crunchy outside and a cheesy, savory inside. They make for a perfect party appetizer or a fun twist on a classic pickle. Easy to make and healthier than deep-fried versions, this recipe will become a favorite in your snack rotation!
Ingredients
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Ranch seasoning
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Beef bits
- Pickles (whole or spears, depending on preference)
Instructions
- Prepare Pickles: Slice your pickles into spears, or if using whole pickles, cut a slit down the middle to create a pocket for the stuffing.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar cheese, and beef bits. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
- Stuff the Pickles: Carefully stuff the pickles with the cream cheese mixture, making sure to pack the filling in tightly.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Air Fry: Place the stuffed pickles in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the outside.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the stuffed pickles from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover stuffed pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the stuffed pickles in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until crispy and heated through.
- Spices: Add garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper to the filling for extra flavor. For spice, mix in hot sauce or sriracha.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
