Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles with Spicy Jalapeño Cheese Filling

Description

Crispy air-fried dill pickle halves filled with a rich, spicy jalapeño cream cheese and cheddar mixture. The tangy crunch of the pickle pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy heat inside and a golden crispy panko coating on the outside.

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Ingredients

For the Pickles:

• 12 large dill pickles, halved lengthwise and seeds removed

• Paper towels (for drying)

For the Spicy Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1–2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Optional: Pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra kick

For Breading:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

• Cooking spray (olive or avocado oil spray works great)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pickles:
   Slice each dill pickle lengthwise and use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out the center seeds. Pat the inside of each half dry with paper towels—this helps the filling stick and avoids soggy results.

2. Make the Spicy Cheese Filling:
   In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust the spice level as needed.

3. Stuff the Pickles:
   Fill each pickle half generously with the cheese mixture, spreading it flat and level. Try not to overfill or it will ooze out during cooking.

4. Bread the Pickles:

   • Lightly dredge each stuffed pickle in flour.

   • Dip into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off.

   • Press into panko breadcrumbs, coating the cheesy side thoroughly.

   • Repeat with all pickle halves.

5. Air Fry:
   Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the pickles lightly with cooking spray. Place them in a single layer in the basket, cheese-side up.
   Air fry for 6–8 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crispy.

6. Serve Hot:
   Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or a pinch of paprika. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce (ranch, chipotle mayo, or even a cool yogurt dip).

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Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 23 minutes

Servings: 6 (2 halves per person)

Calories: ~160 per serving

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Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles with Sweet & Spicy Dipping Sauce

Description

Crunchy, air-fried stuffed pickles paired with a smooth cream cheese cheddar filling and served alongside a bold sweet and spicy dipping sauce. The heat of sriracha and red pepper flakes is perfectly balanced by honey and lime.

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Ingredients

For the Pickles:

• 12 large dill pickles, halved and hollowed

• Paper towels

For the Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp onion powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

For Breading:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

• Cooking spray

For the Sweet & Spicy Dipping Sauce:

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp sriracha (more or less to taste)

• 1 tsp lime juice (fresh is best)

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

• Optional: Pinch of ground ginger or soy sauce for umami

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Instructions

1. Prep the Pickles:
   Cut pickles in half lengthwise and scoop out the center with a small spoon. Pat them dry to remove any brine.

2. Make the Cheese Filling:
   Combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Blend until smooth.

3. Stuff the Pickles:
   Use a spoon to fill each pickle half with the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly.

4. Coat the Pickles:

   • Dip each filled pickle into flour.

   • Then into the beaten egg.

   • Finally, press gently into panko breadcrumbs until well coated.

   • Lightly spray with cooking spray to help browning.

5. Air Fry the Pickles:
   Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place pickles cheese-side up in a single layer and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until golden and crunchy.

6. Make the Dipping Sauce:
   While the pickles are frying, mix together honey, sriracha, lime juice, red pepper flakes, and optional ginger or soy sauce. Stir until smooth. Adjust sweetness and spice to taste.

7. Serve:
   Plate the pickles warm and crispy, with a bowl of the sweet and spicy dipping sauce on the side for dipping.

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Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: ~155 per serving

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Tips & Variations

• For extra heat: Add cayenne, chipotle powder, or hot sauce directly to the cheese filling.

• Add bacon bits to the cheese mixture for a smoky, savory twist.

• Make it keto: Skip the breadcrumbs and just air fry stuffed pickles with a light sprinkle of Parmesan.

• For crunch: Use crushed pork rinds or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.