If you haven’t yet experienced the joy of crispy fried pickles, consider this your sign. One bite of a warm, crunchy, golden pickle slice and you’ll see why this Southern favorite deserves a permanent place on your snack list. I still remember my first taste—at a small roadside diner during a hazy summer trip through Tennessee. That sharp, tangy crunch with a cool, creamy dip? Absolute perfection.
Since that unforgettable moment, fried pickles have become my go-to treat for game days, backyard cookouts, and movie nights. They vanish almost instantly—usually before someone can even ask for more dipping sauce.
Whether you prefer the ultra-crispy results of deep frying or the lighter feel of an air-fried version, this recipe delivers big flavor either way.
🧂 Ingredients (Table Format)
| For Frying | |
|---|---|
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | ¼ teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ¼ teaspoon |
| Buttermilk | ½ cup |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Kosher dill pickles | 3, sliced under ¼”, patted dry |
| Optional Dipping Sauce (or use Ranch) | |
|---|---|
| Ranch dressing | 2 tablespoons |
| BBQ sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Ketchup | 1 teaspoon |
| Mayonnaise | 1 teaspoon |
| Tabasco | A dash |
| Black pepper | A dash |
🔪 Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Fill a heavy pan or Dutch oven with 2–3 inches of vegetable oil. Attach a thermometer (without touching the bottom) and bring the oil to 375°F (190°C). This typically takes about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
- In one bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder.
- In a second bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg until smooth.
Step 3: Coat the Pickles
Working with 3–4 slices at a time:
- Dredge each pickle in the seasoned flour.
- Dip into the buttermilk–egg mixture.
- Return to the flour for a second coating to boost the crispiness.
Step 4: Fry Until Crisp
Lower each coated pickle into the hot oil. Fry about 90 seconds per side until browned and crunchy. Move to a paper towel-lined plate and allow the oil to return to 375°F before starting the next batch.
Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
Combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl and mix until smooth.
