Go Back

The Joy of a Crispy Bite: Homemade Fried Pickles

Learn how to make crispy, golden-brown fried pickles at home! This recipe delivers that satisfying crunch and tangy dill flavor you crave, without needing a deep fryer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ cup (118 ml) buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 kosher dill pickles, cut into slices just shy of ¼” thick and lightly patted dry
  • Dipping Sauce (optional):
  • 2 Tablespoons Ranch dressing
  • 1 Tablespoon BBQ sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon mayonnaise
  • Dash tabasco sauce
  • Dash of ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Fill a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed saucepan 2-3" deep with oil for frying. Fix a frying thermometer to the edge and set your heat to medium. Oil will need to reach 375F (190C) before you can begin frying.
  • Meanwhile, prepare your breading mixture by whisking together flour, salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg.
  • Once oil has reached 375F (190C), coat pickle slices in flour mixture, gently shake off excess, dredge in buttermilk/egg mixture, then coat with flour mixture again.
  • Carefully transfer to oil and fry 3-4 pickle slices at a time for 90 seconds on each side or until golden brown.
  • Use a slotted spoon or strainer to remove from oil and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Make sure oil returns to 375F (190C) before frying your next batch of pickles.
  • Serve warm with dipping sauce.

Notes

  • You can use pre-sliced dill pickle chips if you prefer, but I recommend cutting your own for better control over the thickness.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pot! Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
  • Feel free to experiment with different spices in the breading.
  • Enjoy! And please, let me know what you think in the comments below!
Keyword fried pickles recipe